NAVAL AIR SYSTEMS COMMAND, PATUXENT RIVER, Md. - Naval Aviation Training Systems program (PMA-205) upgraded and delivered an AV-8B Radar Night Attack Weapons Systems Trainer (RNAWST) to the Marine Corps Air Station, Yuma, Ariz. in September.
This is the third of five AV-8B RNAWSTs being upgraded.

The simulator is a fully functional AV-8B Harrier cockpit used to train operational pilots. The device provides tactics training to Marine AV-8B aviators, in both basic and advanced flight missions, using day and night modes of operation, with an emphasis on the Radar Night Attack Weapon Systems.

Pilots develop the unique skills and techniques involved with Vertical/Short Takeoff or Landing (V/STOL), as well as basic aircraft control and instrument flight procedures.

“Advanced training systems complement airborne training in the development of pilot skills and techniques,” said Capt. John Feeney, Naval Aviation Training Systems program manager. Additionally, Feeney said simulation and flight training integration helps aviators effectively fly the aircraft to its full performance.

The simulator, developed by Indra Systems in Orlando, Fla., provides a realistic environment for aviators to practice air-to-ground and air-to-air weapons execution and normal, degraded, and emergency mode operations for all AV-8B II+ Radar Night Attack aircraft systems.

“Harrier pilots who use simulation training two to three times a week become more proficient in flight and emergency procedures,” said Lt. Col. Scott Harris, PMA-205 Marine Corps Aviation Training Systems lead. He added the RNAWST can recreate almost any scenario, emulating worldwide environments and scenarios for mission rehearsal.

Currently, all RNAWSTs are networked on-site to support multi-Harrier missions. In the future, the devices will be interoperable with other Marine Corps Task Force trainers through the United States Marine Corps Tactical Environment Network.

The Advanced AV-8B Harrier Night Attack Aircraft is a second-generation vertical/short take-off and landing attack aircraft. The AV-8B is a responsive, flexible, and deployable attack aircraft capable of being operated and supported from expeditionary, air-capable ships and/or ashore in support of Marine and Naval operations.

The simulator is scheduled to be ready for training December 2010.