L-3 Communications,
NEW YORK: L-3 Communicationstoday announced that the first four CF-18 Air Combat Emulators (ACES) built by its Link Simulation and Training division have been delivered and declared ready for training. The CF-18 ACES, installed at Canadian Forces Base Cold Lake, Alberta, immerse pilots in a high fidelity, networked virtual simulation.
As part of the CF-18 Advanced Distributed Combat Training System (ADCTS) program, the four CF-18 ACES support the ability to conduct a full range of tactical training missions. The CF-18 ACES are integrated with Link's SimuSphere(TM) display system, providing pilots with computer generated visual imagery across a 360-degree field-of-view. In 2006, two additional CF-18 ACES will be installed at Canadian Forces Base Bagotville, Quebec.
To date Link also has delivered ten CF-18 Part Task Trainers, training devices that are allowing pilots to hone their skills in performing specific aircraft system operations. The CF-18 Part Task Trainers, which have been distributed between Canadian Forces squadrons at Cold Lake and Bagotville, are integrated with a single flat panel display that enable pilots to view out-the-window computer generated imagery.
“Link is very pleased to have delivered an advanced and proven simulation solution for the CF-18 ADCTS,” said John McNellis, president of Link Simulation and Training. “The networked CF-18 ACES incorporate many key elements of comparable trainers Link has delivered recently to the U.S. Navy for its F/A-18C Distributed Mission Training program, while extending the training capabilities to meet unique Canadian Air Force requirements.”
Link is performing on the CF-18 ADCTS program under a subcontract with Bombardier Military Aviation Training. Bombardier Military Aviation Training, a world leading training systems integration organization based in Mirabel, Quebec, is the prime contractor for the CF-18 ADCTS.
“Bombardier is very pleased with the quality of equipment delivered to date by its principal sub-contractor, L-3 Communications' Link Simulation and Training,” said David Jurkowski, vice president of Government Relations and Business Development for Bombardier Military Aviation Training. “The on-time delivery of the four sophisticated CF-18 ACES to Cold Lake bring us one step closer to the opening ceremony of the recently completed Mission Training Centre — a truly modern facility from which Canada's CF-18 pilots will benefit significantly well into the future.”
The CF-18 ADCTS, which is projected to last 15 years, provides networked team, joint and combined training flight simulation exercises. This program is the first operational Distributed Mission Operations (DMO) system to be fielded in Canada. CF-18 ADCTS training ranges from performing basic missions to conducting full-theater level battles, supported by distributed training exercises across Canada.
Link Simulation and Training is a systems integration organization that delivers and supports training systems and equipment to enhance operational proficiency. Link's services include conducting front end analysis, program design, simulator design and production and field support. Link has its headquarters operation in Arlington, TX, and other key bases of operation in Binghamton, NY; Orlando, FL; Broken Arrow, OK and Phoenix, AZ.
Headquartered in New York City, L-3 Communications is a leading provider of Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) systems, secure communications systems, aircraft modernization, training and government services. The company is a leading merchant supplier of a broad array of high technology products, including guidance and navigation, sensors, scanners, fuzes, data links, propulsion systems, simulators, avionics, electro optics, satellite communications, electrical power equipment, encryption, signal intelligence, antennas and microwave components. L-3 also supports a variety of Homeland Security initiatives with products and services. Its customers include the Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, selected U.S. Government intelligence agencies and aerospace prime contractors.
