BAE Systems and Flight Simulation Technique Centre (FSTC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in which the companies will develop a Twin Dome Full Mission Simulator for BAE Systems’ Hawk Mk132 fast jet trainer aircraft. The device will use a realistic synthetic environment to help pilots train at a higher standard.

The Hawk Mk132 has supported the training of highly-trained pilots to the Indian Air Force for more than two decades, with many aircraft built in India by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) under licence from BAE Systems. There are now 650 Hawks operating worldwide and BAE Systems has decades of experience working with armed forces across the globe to deliver and evolve training to prepare pilots for life in fast jet cockpits.

FSTC will integrate the cockpit, motion and visual display system, along with model-designated military bases as part of the new agreement.

Capt D S Basraon, Managing Director, FSTC said: “We are elated to partner with BAE Systems for delivery of a fully functional indigenously developed Twin Dome Hawk Mk132 Simulator to assist our defence forces train their pilots under various real world scenarios. Having delivered state-of-the-art training infrastructure and curriculum to commercial pilots over the past one decade, this momentous tie-up will allow us extend similar capability to our defence forces under rationalised usage terms.”

The new collaboration will strengthen indigenous skills and capabilities across the Indian aerospace and defence sector, helping to support the “Make in India” initiative. The full mission simulator is due to be installed within 24 months.