Training systems provider CAE announced on May 27 that CAE USA has been awarded a contract to deliver an initial prototype virtual reality/mixed reality (VR/MR) aircrew trainer for the USAF’s new combat search and rescue (SAR) helicopter the HH-60W “Jolly Green II”.

The system will be delivered through the Systems of Systems Consortium via an Other Transaction Agreement for the USAF’s Air Combat Command, which oversees combat SAR for the US military and allies. CAE USA is partnering with Armick to develop the HH-60W VR/MR aircrew trainer.

According to a CAE release the HH-60W VR/MR aircrew trainer will feature some physical components such as cyclic and collective grips and gun mounts integrated with a virtual reality cockpit and rear compartment of the helicopter.

Each of the aircrew undergoing training will wear a VR headset to immerse the entire crew into an integrated virtual environment where familiarization and procedural training or full-crew mission training can be conducted.

The prototype HH-60W VR/MR aircrew trainer will be delivered to Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, during Q1 2022.