85 COMBAT FLYING SCHOOL COMPUTERISED TRAINING CENTRE (CTC)

The arrival of the Hawk Mk120 LIFT at AFB Makhado scheduled for August 2005 not only introduces a new aircraft into SAAF inventory, but also some of the most modern avionics. Sophisticated systems require understanding of complex systems and sophisticated training. In an effort to create the perfect learning environment, Director Base Support Systems, through Project Winchester, has recently completed the most sophisticated classrooms and teaching aids in the SAAF.

As the SAAFs “Fighter Centre of Excellence”, it is appropriate that AFB Makhado provides the teaching and learning environment to match the intricacies of the aircraft systems. In keeping with the latest pedagogic principles, the Centralised Training Centre (CTC) was established to provide a comprehensive computer based instruction system (CBIS) and a Virtual Aircraft Training System (VATS) for the ground crew and air crew of 85 Combat FS.

While the CBIS provides basic and advanced knowledge of aircraft systems for aircrew using instructor lead and self-paced learning strategies, an Integrated Training Management System (ITMS) manages student activities and provides access to student records.

Amazingly, the VATS provides students with the capability to practice the operation, maintenance and diagnosis of faults in complex aircraft systems. The training device responds in exactly the same manner as the real aircraft in normal and fault modes, allowing for the free-flow execution of maintenance procedures and fault diagnostic training.

VATS is designed to reinforce and consolidate the knowledge gained through the CBIS courses by facilitating ‘practical’ experience of interacting with the aircraft and its systems in a benign, glass screen environment. The VATS courseware is accessed through the same high-resolution twin-screen units of the CBIS classrooms, the student interacting via mouse and stick and throttle units.

(F/Sgt H. Denkewitz)