A new Israeli air force squadron dedicated to delivering simulation-based training to helicopter pilots and unmanned air vehicle operators has become operational.
Flightglobal visited the unit in mid-September, days after it began training its first personnel at Palmachim air base.
The squadron operates in a number of new buildings that house two full-motion simulators for the air force's Sikorsky CH-53 and UH-60L Black Hawk transport helicopters. They also have a variety of PC-based UAV simulators, which also allow operators to learn emergency procedures and to plan missions.
All the systems are interconnected, enabling helicopter pilots and UAV operators to train under various scenarios.
"We go through all the sequence that is common in a flying squadron and that adds to the atmosphere of the training," says one Black Hawk pilot. Procedures include full pre- and post-mission briefings, plus calibrating systems such as night-vision goggles.
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© Israeli air force |
Palmachim air base houses a full motion simulator for the UH-60L Black Hawk |
The new synthetic training systems also enable squadron personnel to participate in "combat days" drills, during which all the air force's squadrons participate in planned and unplanned operational situations.
The unit's commander, identified as Lt Col Oren, says the plan is to achieve full network capabilities with other arms of the Israeli defence forces. "A tank commander will be able to train in a joint combat scenario with helicopters and UAVs by using the same database and a fast communications infrastructure." Similarly, the squadron could also support training activities involving Special Forces personnel, he says.
"This new squadron is another proof that UAVs, alone and in conjunction with other aerial platforms, are gaining a greater, more important role in the structure of the Israeli defence forces," says Col Oren.
"Today the combat squadrons consider us an integral part of the force structure when they train in complicated, diverse scenarios."
The air force plans to add more simulators, including to support operations with the Israel Aerospace Industries Heron TP (Eitan) medium-altitude, long-endurance UAV.
Existing devices will also be updated to ensure full commonality with frontline equipment. "Each change in a system or software upgrade in one of the flying squadrons is implemented immediately in the simulators," Col Oren says.
The simulators are operated by young female soldiers who are specially selected and complete a year-long qualification course.
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© Israeli air force |
"We know the helicopters and UAV systems very intimately and that allows us to correct mistakes made by experienced pilots that carry very high ranks on their uniforms," says Sgt Sharon, one of the unit's most experienced staff.
Source: Flight International
