Thales and AMST are working together to deliver a new high G-force training service for fast-jet pilots. The service, being developed at RAF Cranwell, will improve pilot safety and offer a cost-effective training solution.
Latest generation fighter aircraft are capable of performing advanced maneuvers with rapid, multi-axes motions. This delivers significant advantage and superiority in the air, but exposes pilots to new combinations of high acceleration and rotational motion. Being able to manage the resulting level of G-force is critical to pilot safety.
As prime contractor, Thales will provide the design, build and operation of the training service which is set to open in 2018. Thales has significant experience in designing and delivering complex managed training services, including the RAF’s A400M Atlas, Tornado GR4 and A330 Voyager.
AMST will provide the design, technical and engineering capability for a human training centrifuge which allows pilots to build and maintain their ability to withstand high G in a safe environment.
The new training service will sustain and create employment and have a positive impact on the UK supply chain. Thales will work with a number of UK based SMEs during the construction phase.
Defence Minister Philip Dunne said: “Our pilots receive some of best and most advanced training, and its constant evolution, such as this G-force training, ensures it remains world-class. “This £44 million contract which will allow pilots to develop their ability to withstand high G-force in a safe environment, will involve the innovation and expertise of Small and Medium Enterprises across the UK. This is all part of our £178 billion investment in giving our Service men and women the very best possible training and equipment.”
“The relationship between Thales and AMST is built on our complimentary capabilities and we are delighted that this has been recognised by the UK MoD in the award of this contract,” said Peter Hitchcock, Thales Vice-President in charge of avionics activities.
“Together, AMST and Thales will provide the RAF with the optimum and above all, safest and most effective High G training,” said Richard Schluesselberger, CEO, AMST.
Thales is a global technology leader for the Aerospace, Transport, Defence and Security markets. With 62,000 employees in 56 countries, Thales reported sales of €14 billion in 2015.
With over 22,000 engineers and researchers, Thales has a unique capability to design and deploy equipment, systems and services to meet the most complex security requirements. Its exceptional international footprint allows it to work closely with its customers all over the world.
AMST is the leading global provider of high G training equipment and has been designing, developing and manufacturing centrifuges and other specialised training systems for over 30 years; delivering a large number of advanced human centrifuges worldwide, on time and to budget, achieving up to 99% reliability. AMST’s safety record is unrivalled, and the equipment is renowned for durability, safety and reliability.
