 |
| The M-346 trainer aircraft in flight. Photo: Wikipedia |
[Avionics Today 09-30-2014] The Israel Air Force (IAF) has inaugurated a new flight training center for the M-346 advanced trainer aircraft, affectionately named “Lavi” by the IAF, at Hatzerim Air Force Base. Elbit Systems, the Israel-based prime contractor, developed and delivered the new Ground Based Training System (GBTS) alongside Alenia Aermacchi, CAE and Selex ES. TOR – Advanced Flight Training is responsible for the operation of the trainer aircraft while Elbit will provide the GBTS center with logistics services for 20 years.
The GBTS consists of two Full Mission Simulators (FMS) and two Operational Flight Simulators (OFS) linked to offer a simulation as close as possible to real flight. Pilots will undergo training from basic familiarity with the aircraft to high level combat flight competence. Training also features practice with unusual in-flight emergency procedures as well as simulate complex combat scenarios in a single aircraft or as part of a formation.
According to IAF, the training was selected so pilots will be ready and qualified to progress directly to flying fourth and fifth generation jets.