Case Studies - Defence

Where we came in

The RAF asked QinetiQ to solve a world-wide problem - how can you make it safe to fly dangerously? They wanted the most realistic simulation possible so they could conduct the most effective training exercises - without using expensive aircraft, ground time or the hassle of conforming to restrictive safety regulations.

What we did

We wanted to understand the true nature of the problems of flying combat missions. So we invited the RAF, together with aircrew from two front-line squadrons, to describe their real user requirements to us.

We created a complex mission scenario over a simulator network. It involved four ground attack aircraft, four air defence aircraft, and other friendly and hostile forces represented by computer generated simulations.

Then we ran a synthetic composite air operation experiment for the Ministry of Defence. It was a series - trial-named Ebb & Flow - to investigate collective mission training for front-line aircrew. It was based on a realistic coalition operation in a particular theatre, with all the relevant intelligence, rules of engagement and special instructions.

Flow was the first of the series, a trial to demonstrate the benefits of simulation for collective training. The aim was to:

• create a high threat, dynamic and 'collective' environment
• immerse the crews in the training scenario
• enable them to plan and fly the mission
• test out the 'what ifs' of their contingency planning.

The results and benefits

The experience convinced initially sceptical users of the benefits from advanced networking simulations.

The 'before' questionnaires clearly showed that the aircrew were decidedly sceptical. Their experience had been limited to stand-alone simulators, designed to provide fairly basic and individual emergency and procedural training. Before the exercise they felt that the only effective tool for specific role training was their own aircraft.

The trial significantly changed their minds. Their 'after' assessments showed that they believed the simulation to be a better training environment than their aircraft, for tactics and countermeasures training and a number of role-specific tasks.

As one of the pilots said:
The week started as an experimental trial, but before long it was obvious that we could get some realistic synthetic training for actual operations. The scope for increasing the training value is huge. Flying a fighter-bomber is an expensive pastime. Simulators don't come cheap, but once bought they repay the outlay in knowledge and skills many times over.

All aircrew consistently rated the simulation experience as:
as good as live training for almost all the training objectives
markedly better for exploring the 'what ifs' of training scenarios.

The results have enormous potential for the operational effectiveness of front-line aircrew. They provide informed and expert justification for synthetic training.

Anything is possible - just ask

This project is a prime example of how we work with simulations, applying our knowledge and facilities to create and deliver realistic synthetic training scenarios.

We could do the same for you. Whatever your requirements or problems, we have the ideas, know-how and solutions.