NAVAL AIR STATION PATUXENT RIVER, Md. - The F/A-18C/D Tactical Operational Flight Trainer, also known as the TOFT, has become so complex and sophisticated that the simulator is now capable of enhancing aircraft System Configuration Set development.

When used to assist with software development, the trainer can accelerate deficiency identification and correction. This concept was verified during a recent simulation run in which the operational flight program component of the trainer highlighted software deficiencies confirmed in the aircraft test. The System Configuration Set, also known as SCS, is the same software used in the actual F/A-18C/D aircraft.

The SCS allows the warfighter to simulate target designation, weapons integration and real time mission assessment both in the simulator and in flight.

“The trainer has become concurrent with the aircraft combat baseline, allowing for potential problem identification during software development.” said Cmdr. Frank Silebi, PMA205 Hornet, Super Hornet and Growler aviation training systems integrated product team lead.

By identifying these deficiencies, the TOFT can assist in the development and assessment of the SCS, notifying the test community of potential software issues within the aircraft.

Because of this verification capability, TOFT 125, being delivered to Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, Calif., will assist in testing prior to the software being loaded into the aircraft’s operational flight programs.

Additionally, Silebi said the TOFT, built by L-3 Link Simulation & Training Division, Arlington, Texas, provides capabilities based training and readiness, simulating emergency procedures, carrier operations, air-to-air and air-to-ground tactical operations in a realistic and interactive environment. It allows instructors to provide training to Navy and Marine Corps pilots and naval flight officers, emulating worldwide environments and scenarios for mission rehearsal.

The trainer has an instructor/operator station that establishes the scenarios and training lessons, as well as pilot and NFO crew stations equipped with related visual systems.

The trainer is capable of simulating ground start up, taxi, take off, aircraft rendezvous and employment of section and division tactics.

The F/A-18 Hornet is a multirole fighter jet which serves as an attack aircraft, as well as strike fighter, through selected use of external equipment and advanced networking capabilities to accomplish specific missions. Aircraft capabilities give the operational commander more flexibility in employing tactical aircraft in a rapidly changing battle scenario. In its fighter mode, it serves as escort and fleet air defense. In its attack mode, it provides force projection, interdiction, and close and deep air support.
During current operations, the Hornet is performing combinations of varied and distinct missions - including air superiority, fighter escort, defense suppression, all-weather day/night precision strike, reconnaissance, and aerial refueling.

Photo: “A U.S. Navy pilot “takes flight” in an F/A-18C/D Tactical Operation Flight Trainer during a recent ground training exercise. The TOFT enables pilots to simulate a full range of training and readiness objectives.” U.S. Navy photo.