The Netherlands National Aerospace Laboratory NLR has signed an agreement with NHIndustries (NHI) for the development and delivery of a demonstrator of potential Embedded Training Systems for the NH90 helicopter crew.
The agreement was signed at the yearly NIDV exhibition, the major defence and security event in the Netherlands where government, industry and knowledge institutes meet. This agreement initiates the work to evaluate the various options and alternatives available for an ET capability and to develop a demonstration of the capability to use with NH90 helicopter customers to develop a full requirements specification.
Embedded Training allows pilots and mission operators of the NH90 helicopter as well as other participants in the battlefield environment to train with simulated threats and targets. This enables them to develop operating procedures and user training experiences as though the simulated threats and targets were real.
With the Embedded Training (ET) system the NH90 crew can train large and complicated scenarios for land and maritime operations.. ET enables the flying of training missions, without the necessity of having all scarce resources needed for a tactical situation available. Combinations of virtual and real-time assets can be deployed enabling realistic and effective in-flight training with lower cost and less environmental consequences.
By using fast and secure communications channels a sortie of multiple helicopters and other assets can participate in the same training scenario. By distributing the scenario information in real time, each participant has the same information at all times. In addition, the networked ET system enables further integration with simulation networks. Thus, ET is a cornerstone for Virtual, Live and Constructive environments with which more scenarios can be trained, integrating all participants In the battlefield environment.
Together with the Dutch Ministry of Defence and Dutch Space, NLR has built the foundation for this innovative training system. The first demonstration version flew on the RNLAF F-16 and the ET system is now being optimized for the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II (Joint Strike Fighter).
NLR is a prominent party worldwide in the area of training, simulation, operator performance and operational support of civil and military operators. Michel Peters, CEO of NLR: ‘NLR is pleased that we can continue our involvement in the NH90 programme with this training system that we feel will provide substantial benefits to its operators.Â
The NH90 helicopter, in both the troop transport variant (TTH) and the naval variant (NFH), is one of the most advanced military helicopters flying today with very advanced integrated systems delivering a significant weapons platform. The provision of an Embedded Training capability will significantly enhance the total NH90 mission system for the potential benefit of all its customers.
NLR is the primary knowledge enterprise in the Netherlands for the identification, development and test and verification of aerospace technical solutions. NLR’s activities are socially relevant and market-oriented. NLR strengthens the innovative and decisive capabilities of governmental organisations and the sustainable competitiveness of industry.
