The US Navy has begun fielding a live virtual constructive (LVC) system to “revolutionize” flight training for maritime aviation.
Facilitated by the US Naval Aviation Training Systems and Ranges and the F/A-18 and EA-18G program offices, the program seeks “significant positive impacts” and “considerable changes” for the service’s flight training syllabi.
LVC uses a “Link Inject-to-Live” approach to integrate high-fidelity simulated air-to-air and surface-to-surface weapon systems with F/A-18E/F Super Hornet fighter jets and EA-18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft.
Through this capability, the US Navy will save millions of dollars annually on training while honing greater readiness in naval airspace.
“The Link Inject-to-Live trainer enhances the F/A-18 and EA-18G training capability by enabling them with the ability to train against realistic air and surface threats,” Naval Aviation Training Systems and Ranges Program Manager Capt. Kevin McGee explained.
“The capabilities LITL brings for both deployed and home station operations are quite impressive.”
‘Game-Changer’
LVC’s portable and cost-conscious features enable the service to cover complex and dynamic preparations in all weather conditions for aviators.
The training system relieves naval aircrews of the need for live aircraft adversaries to complete sortie and training event timelines.
In addition, it reduces administrative burdens, logistical costs, fuselage, and maintenance efforts whenever red air adversary support is required for training in detachment sites.
“In naval aviation, we train like we fight, and Link Inject-to-Live makes training more realistic and easier, so it’s a win all around. This capability is a game changer,” F/A-18E/F Deputy Program Manager Cmdr. Sarah Abbott said.
“We are currently testing connections to other platform simulators that will facilitate integrated training that will accelerate air-to-air training,” Naval Aviation Training LVC and Strategy Department Team Lead Chuck Terry added.