Lockheed Eyes 2020 Delivery of Virtual F-35 Training System

Lockheed Martin intends to launch an integrated mission training system designed for multiple F-35 pilots and networks in various geographical areas, National Defense Magazine reported Tuesday.

Chauncey McIntosh, vice president of F-35 training and logistics at Lockheed, announced during this year’s Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation and Education Conference in Orlando, Fla., that the distributed system would enable the fighter jet’s Full Mission Simulators to connect with a range of training networks as well as other platforms.

“As long as we can join the network, whatever that asset is, it can be connected and go and fight a virtual flight exercise,” said McIntosh.

Amy Gowder, vice president and general manager for training and logistics solutions, noted that Lockheed has funneled “quite a bit of money” into the assessment of capabilities for cyber protection and training effectiveness as part of efforts to develop new networked and integrated offerings.

Lockheed has begun testing the distributed virtual training system concept at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada and plans to deliver the technology in 2020.

Previously, Lockheed proposed a five-year arrangement to the Department of Defense that may help the department cut up to $1B in F-35 sustainment costs.