First F-35 JSF simulator delivered to U.S. Air Force

Posted by John McHaleORLANDO, Fla., 19 April 2011. The first F-35 Lightning II full mission simulator (FMS) was delivered to Eglin Air Force Base's 33rd Fighter Wing by Lockheed Martin. The simulator uses a high-fidelity 360-degree visual display system and a reconfigurable cockpit that simulates all three aircraft variants for U.S. and international partner services. The system is the highest fidelity trainer in the F-35 pilot-training-device suite, accurately replicating all F-35 sensors and weapons deployment.Preparation and assembly is underway at the base's F-35 Integrated Training Center (ITC) for training to commence this fall."JSF training technology brings a revolutionary new capability to the joint services," says Col. Arthur Tomassetti, 33rd Fighter Wing Vice Commander. "The smooth surface, high-resolution dome is a dramatic improvement over legacy fighter simulators. The high visual acuity and utilization of a significant amount of real aircraft parts and source code will allow us to train a wide variety of mission tasks previously not accomplished in simulators. The F-35 FMS will be our primary pilot training device, and we are anxious to start putting it to good use."In all F-35 simulators, actual aircraft software is used to give pilots the most realistic experience and allow software upgrades in step with the F-35 development. Small group training events with pilot and maintenance instructors are currently being held at the ITC using maintenance, desktop, and mission trainers."This is a tremendous milestone for the F-35 training team," says Joanne Puglisi, director of F-35 Training and Support at Lockheed Martin Global Training and Logistics. "We are committed to providing the next generation of F-35 fighter pilots and maintainers with the most advanced training systems in the world. The FMS is a key component in that capability." The fully-integrated F-35 pilot-and-maintenance training center at Eglin AFB, Fla., will be home to a full spectrum of the latest courseware, electronic classrooms, simulators, and flight events. A balance of skill and knowledge training is woven into the program with interactive courseware, desktop simulators, and high-fidelity training devices.