Story ID: 372
RAF Tests Inflight Augmented Reality Training
By: David Donald
Caption: The trial involves Red 6’s ATARS system in a Hawk T.Mk 2
Word Count: 274
BAE Systems and the UK Ministry of Defence intend to conduct inflight trials of the Advanced Tactical Augmented Reality System (ATARS) developed by U.S. company Red 6. The partners will conduct the tests using a Hawk T.Mk 2, which is the RAF’s current advanced trainer. Demonstration flights with ATARS are scheduled to begin later this year and will permit the RAF to evaluate the use of augmented reality (AR) as part of future aircrew training.
ATARS enables pilots to “see” virtual adversaries in their visors in air combat scenarios, as well as synthetic support aircraft such as a wingman. The threats have been programmed to act and react as they would in combat, providing a realistic training environment without the need for real-world adversary aircraft. The use of AR offers the potential to not only save money, but also to maximize the training benefits of each hour of a trainee’s flight time.
“Exploitation of novel technologies is an essential part of ensuring the RAF is able to sustain our combat edge and succeed on operations against a constantly evolving adversary,” said Air Commodore Rob Caine, the RAF’s head of flying training. “This latest development is a very exciting proposition and opportunity, and we are all looking forward to seeing the outcomes.”
BAE Systems and Red 6 already have undertaken 3D scanning and feasibility assessments on Hawk T.Mk 2 aircraft based with 4 FTS at RAF Valley, home to the advanced training effort that produces new F-35 and Typhoon aircrew. The ATARS system can be spirally developed to maintain its relevance as threats and tactics evolve.