Rheinmetall to upgrade Tiger multi-purpose attack helicopter's simulator systems

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Aviation defence equipment technology - Rheinmetall Tiger simulator
 
 
Rheinmetall to upgrade Tiger multi-purpose attack helicopter's simulator systems
 
Crews of the Franco-German Tiger multi-purpose attack helicopter will continue in future to train with tried-and-tested simulation technology from Rheinmetall. The Düsseldorf-based Group recently booked an order to this effect worth several tens of millions €.
     
     
In December 2014 the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation OCCAR (Organisation Conjointe de Coopération en matière d’Armement) contracted with ARGE TATM (ARGE Tiger Aircrew Training Means) the modernization of simulator technology already in service. ARGE TATM is a cooperation between Thales and Rheinmetall. The modernization program started on January 2015 and will be completed by September 2018.

The contract encompasses the upgrade of existing simulators, which will be updated to match the latest configuration of the original aircraft. This includes the software for the basic management and mission systems as well as new cockpit hardware. Furthermore, the updated simulation will take into account the new French attack helicopter variant, Tiger HAD (hélicoptère d’appui et destruction).

The procurement package also includes simulators for the new simulation facility in Phalsbourg, France. Moreover, Germany’s Operational Support System, the EUA, will be subject to the modernization program, facilitating mission preparation and tactical training.

The existing simulator technology will be modernized with a new visual system, new visualization software and new projectors for the display systems as well as the replacement of obsolete computer technology. Additional services and support operations for the simulators, including obsolescence management, complete the order.

Thales and Rheinmetall began developing training systems for the Franco-German Tiger attack helicopter in 2001. Procured through OCCAR, the equipment was delivered starting in 2005. At present, simulators for Tiger crew training are in operation at three locations: two in France (at the École Franco-Allemande in Le Luc and in Pau) and one in Germany (Fritzlar in Hessen).