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Spotlight on S&T - April 2004

DRDC Demonstrates New Helicopter Simulator

Defence R&D Canada (DRDC), the Canadian Forces and defence-related industries were recently shown the future in Air Force acquisition technology. TAMSS, the Tactical Aviation Mission System Simulation Technology Demonstration Project (TDP), one of DRDC's first TDPs, was handed over to the Air Force for exploitation.

TAMSS demonstrated a virtual environment in which crews can determine requirements on a simulated battlefield, allowing helicopter pilots to test virtual modifications before implementing them. TAMSS combines technology with human-centred design to provide an advanced capability to support acquisition decisions. The use of a synthetic environment minimizes program risk and encourages new development. Says Patrice Belanger, Project Director of TAMSS, "TAMSS will provide the means to demonstrate acquisition reforms through crew-in-the-loop distributed modeling and simulation."

Participants are briefed on the mission.

In the past, traditional acquisition activities involved "build, test, build" cycles. The specifications for equipment were developed, a prototype was built and then tested and evaluated. It could take many years and millions of dollars, particularly if it was determined that the equipment did not meet the desired objectives.

Dr. John Leggat, CEO of DRDC, described TAMSS as "a prime example of how shared science and technology expertise and innovation is a win- win situation for all." The handover was marked by Dr. Leggat 'taking-off' in the helicopter. He was replaced in mid-air by Col. Neil, CAS representative, who 'landed' the helicopter. Other participants also had the opportunity to 'pilot' the simulator.

TAMSS simulators in Ottawa, Gagetown and Valcartier allow pilots to train in shared simulations.