RAF’s New Synthetic Training System Officially Opens

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston KCB CBE ADC, has opened Gladiator, Air’s new Distributed Synthetic Multi Domain Integration Training capability, at the Air Battlespace Training Centre at Royal Air Force (RAF) Waddington.

Operating from a new purpose-built facility, Gladiator is a synthetic training system which links synthetic training devices (simulators) to a central hub, enabling operators from force elements across the Land, Maritime and Air environments to train safely and securely together.

A number of factors impact the UK’s ability to complete all necessary training in the live environment. These include airspace constraints, environmental considerations, cost, and operational security. Gladiator will overcome these limitations by safeguarding highly classified information whilst linking together simulators across the country and beyond.

Air, Land, Maritime, Space and Cyber capabilities will be integrated over coming years, alongside increased connectivity with Allies and Partners, further strengthening Gladiator’s capability to deliver synthetic Multi Domain Integration training.

Gladiator will not replace live flying but will complement it, enabling each training activity to be completed in the most effective environment. This capability has required significant development and collaboration between the Ministry of Defence and industry partners.

Synthetic training complements live training opportunities and enables delivery of effective combat forces. Initial integrations are Typhoon, Lightning (F-35), Airseeker (RC-135 Rivet Joint), and the Joint Fires Synthetic Trainer, with other platforms scheduled to join in due course.