Malaysia receiving flight trainer

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ARLINGTON, Texas, March 27 (UPI) -- An F/A-18D Tactical Operations Flight Trainer is being built for the Malaysian air force by L-3 Link Simulation and Training.

The U.S. company said the contract for the trainer was given by the U.S. Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division.

The TOFT will feature two cockpits -- one for the pilot and one for the weapons officer. Using L-3 Link's immersive, 360-degree high-definition SimuSphere HD-9 visual display, the cockpits will help maximize aircrew training and readiness.

Four technologies are combined in the trainer, L-3 said: high-definition databases; image generation systems; physics-based processing; and a visual system display. Together they provide realistic day-and-night, out-the-window visual cueing and high-fidelity cockpit sensors.

Simulations include formation flight, suppression of enemy defenses, reconnaissance, forward air control, close air support, refueling, emergency procedures and strike missions.

The trainer will be delivered to Malaysia in early 2014.

"We are pleased to continue our long-standing relationship with the (Malaysian air force) and look forward to delivering a highly advanced F/A-18 training system," said L-3 Link President Leonard Genna.

"This state-of-the-art F/A-18D Tactical Operational Flight Trainer will leverage proven simulation technologies we have fielded to the U.S. Navy and other international F/A-18 customers."