Defense News
02/11/2011
American Systems Promotes F-18 SAMT at Aero India
By WENDELL MINNICK
BANGALORE, India - Virginia-based American Systems, a government information technology solutions provider, demonstrated the "physics-based simulation" F/A-18 Hornet Simulated Aircraft Maintenance Technology Trainer (SAMT) at the 2011 Aero India air show being held in Bangalore, India, which runs Feb. 9-13.
"The simulation is easily adapted to a wide range of training needs, and allows students to work in a realistic, immersive environment that allows the instructor to challenge students with 'real-life' scenarios and hazards without the inherent dangers of traditional training, or the tremendous costs of using real aircraft," said Bhim Uppal, international marketing director, American Systems.
The F/A-18 Super Hornet is one of six contenders for the Indian Air Force's Medium Multi-Mission Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) bid.
American Systems it working closely with its Indian partner MEL Systems and Services (MELSS) to promote SAMT in India. Both companies signed a collaboration agreement that offers Indian customers virtual maintenance trainers and Web-based computer training modules for avionics, hydraulic, engine, fuel, flight controls and electrical areas.
The F/A-18 SAMT, developed for the U.S. Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), is a highly intuitive, physics/math-based simulator that uses photo-realistic imagery to digitally replicate every inch of the Hornet jet fighter, Uppal said.
The graphical, touch screen, immersive, 3-D environment lets trainees to interact naturally with a virtual F/A-18, directly affecting the system models while performing maintenance tasks and rehearsing mission scenarios. The underlying Simulated Maintenance Technology (SMT) can be used to simulate any vehicle or system, including ships, trucks and helicopters.
"The F/A-18 SAMT provides a safe, realistic virtual environment for maintenance crews to hone their skills and rehearse tasks at a fast pace, ultimately ensuring airmen, sailors and soldiers have the tools necessary for the timely and effective execution of mission-critical operations," said William Hoover, president and CEO, American Systems.
American Systems also announced the company has been named one of the Top Simulation and Training Companies by Military Training Technology magazine. The award recognizes the top 100 international companies whose work has significantly impacted military training.
