Boeing delivering C-17 training devices

ST. LOUIS, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Training devices for the U.S. Air Force's C-17 aircrews will be delivered by Boeing to three service sites in 2012 and 2013.

Boeing said the first set of devices is an Integrated Training Center to be delivered to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, in the first quarter of 2012.

The ITC will consist of a weapon systems trainer, pilot and co-pilot station, loadmaster station and related courseware and support equipment.

A second weapon systems trainer will be installed at McChord Air Force Base, Wash., in the third quarter of 2012 and a third ITC will go to a new C-17 training site in early 2013.

"Wright-Patterson is set to receive its first of eight C-17s next year and McChord has 54," said Mark McGraw, Boeing vice president for Training Systems & Services. "We are proud to add to the Air Force's training capability and support warfighter readiness with these new devices."

The ITCs support pilot and co-pilot instruction in flight operations, mission planning and emergency procedures through computer-based training, advanced aircraft simulation and other desktop training devices.

C-17 loadmasters also receive computer-based and aircraft training in addition to training on the loadmaster station, cargo loading models and cargo compartment trainer. Maintenance personnel can also use the ITCs for training on engine run procedures.

The contract value is $44 million initially and as much as $72 million if two options are exercised.