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L-3 Link to upgrade Pakistani ATDs to SimuSphere HD-9™

January 23, 2012 (by Rick Oyler) - L-3 Link Simulation & Training (L-3 Link) announced that it has been awarded a contract modification from the U.S. Air Force to upgrade two Pakistan Air Force F-16C block 52 Aircrew Training Devices (ATDs) with the company's new SimuSphere HD-9™ visual system display.

This award represents the first use of SimuSphere HD-9 on training devices that will be delivered to a foreign nation. The F-16C block 52 ATDs are scheduled for delivery in 2013, will be installed at Shahbaz Air Base.

L-3 Link's SimuSphere HD-9, which incorporates the full capabilities of the company's HD World® integrated simulation product line, will provide Pakistani F-16 pilots with an increased level of tactical training realism. High-definition databases, image generators while the SimuSphere HD-9 visual display will combine to create a highly realistic and relevant training environment over a geo-specific visual system database of Pakistan.

"This award demonstrates the value that SimuSphere HD-9 will bring to military fast jet training," said Leonard Genna, president of L-3 Link. "SimuSphere HD-9, combined with the trainers' overall HD World capabilities, will allow Pakistan Air Force F-16 pilots to gain training credit equivalent to live training."

The PAF's F-16C Block 52 ATDs will support new pilot, pilot conversion and advanced skills training. The trainers will incorporate L-3 Link's simulated Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System, enabling pilots to practice control of aircraft targeting systems and sensors. In addition, pilots will be able to wear their own night vision goggles when conducting simulated night-time missions.

The two F-16C Block 52 ATDs will be supported by one mission support system, and each simulator will also have a dedicated instructor/operator station.

L-3 Link is the leading provider of F-16 simulators worldwide. Since the 1970s, the company has delivered approximately 140 F-16 training devices in support of the U.S. Air Force, Air National Guard and 10 foreign nations.


Courtesy of L-3 Link Simulation & Training

Additional images:

PAF F-16C block 52 #10901 is taxiing by the lens at NAS Fort Worth on December 15th, 2009 after performing a functional check flight. [Photo by Sebastiaan Does]