Multi-ship networked embedded training will be a key functionality in Lockheed Martin's new F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter (JSF). That means that multiple F-35 pilots can take off and operate as a coherent flight, practising multi-ship tactics in complex virtual threat scenarios -- without any Red Air or hostile ground threats being actually present.

Realistic combat training will be possible at any location without the need for expensive, elaborately-equipped range facilities, while significant cost savings are possible because no live opposing forces are needed.


The NLR Fighter Four-ship mission simulation center. Photo: NLR

The multi-ship embedded training functionality was demonstrated in recent weeks at Lockheed Martin in Fort Worth, Texas, using a twin-cockpit configuration of the Netherlands National Aerospace Laboratory (NLR)'s Fighter Four-ship mission simulation center, the NLR says today.

The embedded training software used in the demo was based on the E-Cats (embedded combat aircraft training system) technology developed by the NLR and Dutch Space (a subsidiary of EADS Astrium).

A test version of E-Cats was flown in 2004 on a Lockheed Martin F-16BM, operated by the Royal Netherlands Air Force. During that campaign at Leeuwarden Air Base, the Netherlands, a range of U.S. military and Lockheed Martin pilots, as well as Netherlands fighter pilots, flew E-Cats missions.

E-Cats sorties involved the test aircraft being engaged by hostile air and ground threats (fighters, surface-to-air missiles and electronic warfare) -- all virtual but presented on the multifunction displays and threat warning displays in the F-16 cockpit as real.


The multi-ship embedded training demo was made possible under a February 2007 contract awarded to the NLR by the JSF program office. Photo: NLR

The demo in Fort Worth was witnessed by pilots and engineers from the U.S. and the other JSF partner nations.

The Amsterdam-based NLR received a contract for the demo from the JSF program Office in February. The participating aircraft are networked using a datalink allowing them to synchronize the synthetic battlespace environment in which they operate.

For the F-35 embedded training program, NLR and Dutch Space are working with a number of U.S.-based companies, including Cubic, DRS and Lockheed Martin. Whether or not the E-Cats or another system will be used has yet to be decided.