L-3 Link Simulation & Training is to provide the Swiss air force with four networked simulators for its upgraded Boeing F/A-18s, continuing the company's clean sweep of Hornet operators including Australia, Canada and the US Navy.
The $40.9 million contract is for F/A-18C tactical operational flight trainers (TOFT) equipped with Link's SimuView image generator and SimuSphere 360º visual display. These will be delivered to Payerne air base late next year and be ready for training in 2009.
The TOFTs are similar to networked devices delivered to the Canadian Forces since late 2005 and the Royal Australian Air Force from August 2006.
Link has previously received a $52 million deal to build six C/D devices for the US Navy and Marine Corps, and last December secured a $32 million contract to supply the navy with four TOFTs for the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet.
This included an option for another five, plus two deployable trainers and the upgrade of 16 existing trainers. The first TOFT for the EA-18G Growler electronic-attack aircraft is also under construction.
The Swiss deal includes a unique mission operations centre and brief/debrief room. Switzerland is undertaking a multi-phase upgrade of its 24 single-seat F/A-18Cs and six two-seat F/A-18Ds.
Boeing has meanwhile received a $6 million contract modification to support the 30-aircraft upgrade, with work to end in March 2009.
Source: Flight International
