Flight Sims Prep Fighter Pilots

DefenseNews has an interesting article today on how gaming technology is playing a larger role in military pilot training. As the technology has improved, so has the level of realism in the simulations. This is crucial because it helps pilots prepare for the range of events they may encounter when flying during a mission.

"It is very important to ensure that [computer-generated forces] and player avatars interact in as realistic a manner as possible, and that involves seamless integration of a wide variety of advanced technologies," said Esther Fernández, Amper's product marketing manager, in an address given at the Ibersim simulation conference in Madrid in October.

Part of the answer has been found in integrating components of so-called serious games technology into constructive simulations. At the training and simulation industry's premier annual gathering, I/ITSEC in Orlando, Fla., from Nov. 30-Dec. 3, visitors can expect to see widespread integration of these technologies into simulation solutions in exhibitors' booths.

The article points out how technology can help with more than just pilot training; engineers and operators also rely on high-tech simulations to help prepare them for jobs that are equally crucial to the success of their mission. As technology continues to play an increasing role in the military, expect the training simulation market to continue to grow along with it.