Christine Thropp
STRIKEWERX and Specular Theory are collaborating on the development of a technology meant to help Air Force Global Strike Command fast-track pilots’ air-to-air refueling training.
The team aims to create a simulator to hone the fine motor skills and visual perception necessary for B-52 pilots to conduct AAR, STRIKEWERX said Thursday.
EARL, STRIKEWERX’s small-footprint sled design that simulates ARR using virtual reality and physical hardware, will be further developed by the team to meet Air Force training requirements.
The simulator was used in STRIKEWERX’s B-52 Air Refueling Trainer Challenge event.
“We were able to be involved in this process to help shape a product that will better train pilots more quickly and efficiently,” said B-52 Air Refueling Trainer Project Champion Maj. Brandon Wolf. “This will give us the new ability to take someone who has never flown before and accomplish AAR in their first time flying, which has a positive effect on national security.”
The 11th Bomb Squadron, 93rd Bomb Squadron and other AFGSC shareholders will test the training software.
