Frasca, a FlightSafety International company, delivered groundbreaking technology to the U.S. Navy nearly three years ahead of expectations, producing a more efficient and cost-effective training system for the U.S. Navy’s next generation rotary wing training program. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard aviators are now better prepared to begin the flight portion of their TH-73A training following their experience in Frasca developed ground-based flight training devices.
Following a contract award from Booz Allen Hamilton, Frasca developed a Desktop Avionics Trainer (DAT) and a mixed-reality Part Task Trainer (PTT) that capitalized on a common software package to provide consistent training for pilots as they progress through the TH-73A pilot curriculum. The combination of fidelity and technology results in a comprehensive training ecosystem that trains and equips student pilots for more advanced training scenarios.
The DAT is based on proven software and hardware that allows students to train on avionics that replicate TH-73A systems in fidelity and functionality.
In addition, Frasca developed a first-in-class flight PTT that allows for dual pilot operation and multi-ship training in a compact configuration using mixed-reality technology. The trainer blends actual aircraft control surfaces and hardware with high-fidelity virtual imagery to include emulated night vision goggle (NVG) environment. The advanced technology and efficient footprint of the PTT optimizes available space and maximizes student throughput to better meet the demands of the operational fleet.
“Frasca worked jointly with the Navy on several of the features of the PTT and worked closely with Aechelon, creating an exceptional success story,” said John Frasca, President. “Developing this technology and completing all seven PTTs within 12 months, underscores Frasca’s commitment to meeting the need for quick delivery to the warfighter fleet.”
All seven new PTTs and 15 DATs are installed and operating at Naval Air Station Whiting Field.
Finally, Frasca worked with FSI Defense, a FlightSafety International company, to install eight new Frasca manufactured TH-73A Flight Training Devices (FTDs) and upgrade 10 TH-57B/C model FTDs to complete the next generation training ecosystem. The high-fidelity simulators replicate the motion and vibrations that students will experience in actual flight, enabling them to practice basic flight maneuvers, instrument and NVG training, formation flying, emergency procedures, and other scenario-based training prior to going to the aircraft.
The combination of DAT, PTT, and high-fidelity flight training devices enable students to reach higher levels of proficiency in fewer actual flight hours, accelerating training while maintaining the high standards of Naval flight training.
