Networked simulators demo air-to-air refueling

ORLANDO, Fla., Dec. 3 (UPI) -- Networked and geographically separated flight simulators have performed a virtual air-to-air refueling demonstration for the U.S. Air Force.

The high-fidelity simulation, performed by an industry team led by Northrop Grumman, involved a pilot in a C-17 flight simulator in Texas, an operator in a flight simulator in Florida and a boom operator in a boom operator weapons system trainer in Oklahoma.

All three operated simultaneously through the Mobility Air Forces Distributed Mission Operations test network.

Northrop said the C-17 pilot and boom operator performed closure, contact, bank turns and disconnect to "demonstrate real-world critical interaction between the three simulator platforms."

More than 70 physics-based virtual aerial refueling standards for simulators were defined for the test, followed by their implementation.

Working with Northrop on the project were CAE, CymStar and L-3 Communications, the prime contractors for the simulators used.

"This achievement will not only help enhance readiness but also provide significant cost savings for the Air Force," said Mike Twyman, vice president and general manager of the Defense Systems division, Northrop Grumman Information Systems.