Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division - Orlando
VIRGINIA Torpedo Room Block III (VA Torp. Rm BLK III or VA BLKIII)
The MRTS 3D® VA BLKIII application simulates the torpedo room of the Block III variant of the Virginia-class submarine. It allows for operators to carry out weapons handling steps to properly load, arm, and launch an ADCAP torpedo. There is a fire control center that is integrated within this system that is primarily utilized by the instructor for procedural compliance in order to enable weapon launching. Operators can practice the sequence of setting launch characteristics through the four torpedo tubes and vertical launches for twelve silos split between two payload tubes. Operators are expected to be able to conduct team based procedures to ensure visual checks are in compliance prior to conducting a horizontal or vertical launch. The instructor has the capability to insert up to 12 different casualty scenarios among the fire control center and torpedo room environments.
The key difference of Block III from Block I and II is the technology within it. Block III contains more digital screens that provide better visualization for the operator, such as showing dynamic seawater flow based on valve positions. There are not as many analog inputs as there are in Block I and II, and processes, such as pressurizing and venting silos, are automated.
