Training Event Integrates Fifth-Generation Platforms for Warfighters

Northrop Grumman Corporation’s Distributed Mission Operations Network (DMON) enabled the U.S. Combat Air Force (CAF) Distributed Training Center (DTC) at Langley Air Force Base in Virginia to successfully execute a large-force, virtual training event. DMON Argonne 23 provided training against peer adversaries in a complex, multi-domain threat scenario using networked aircraft simulators.

DMON delivers secure connectivity and network interoperability between unique simulator platforms across the globe, allowing aircrews to train together in a high-fidelity virtual environment.

“During this exercise, DMON connected fourth- and fifth-generation fighters from different bases to train as they would in live combat operations, allowing aircrews to prepare for the realistic tactical problems they may face,” said Rebecca Torzone, vice president and general manager, combat systems and mission readiness, Northrop Grumman. “DMON Argonne 23 successfully demonstrated how our immersive environments deliver on our commitment to prime warfighters for future Joint All-Domain Command and Control operations.”

For the first time, DMON Argonne 23 successfully connected multiple F-22 and F-35 aircraft in a distributed virtual training environment. Additionally, the Northrop Grumman-staffed CAF DTC developed a robust virtual battlespace environment, mission planning and execution materials, and supported the scheduling, briefing, execution and debriefing. Operators could make changes in real time and adapt scenarios to mission training requirements.

Over the course of four days, the event hosted 44 sites, 97 cockpits and trained 196 personnel operating F-22, F-35, F-16, A-10, MQ-9, E-3G, RC-135, CRC, JTAC and the Navy’s EA-18G platform simulators.

DMON is an interoperable training network that connects legacy and emerging systems, and could serve as a foundational platform to support future requirements and capabilities such as the Joint Simulation Environment. Through “digital twins” of the battlespace, DMON can create a realistic, scalable environment for mission rehearsals and training. Additionally, these virtual replicas combined with the ability to network a diverse set of nodes saves resources because there is no need to deploy people and equipment.