Distributed Close Air Support training exercise
IFACTS is a flexible solution that is available in many configurations. IFACTS supports HLA as well as DIS which offers rapid integration of systems at at low risk to the customer. Systems communicate using HLA and/or DIS over LAN and WAN connections.
The figure below shows typical IFACTS components and 3rd party solutions that can be combined in different ways to meet specific customer training needs. This configuration represents an exercise setup with participants located at geographically separate sites, e.g.
- Fighter wing,
- Air control wing,
- JTAC training centers,
- FO training centers.
They participate in the same exercise, operate in the same geo-specific terrain, facing the same enemy threat.
Live pilots operate the DART F16 flight simulators that are located at an airbase. They participate in the exercise through a WAN connection to an Air Control Wing site and JTAC and FO sites where several JTACs operate the IFACTS2 stations. The IFACTS 'Easy-to-Fly' aircraft and UAV stations are operated by instructors.
Training scenarios are generated and driven by the F-INSTR instructor station. The training setup is also connected to a battle management system (Sitaware) in order to track entities during the session and present an overview to higher levels of command. Communication between participants (radio communication and Intercom) is handled by IRAS, a radio simulation system provided by IFAD.
The exercise can be further extended to include tank drivers and gunners operating armoured vehicle simulators (SteelBeasts) located at the army's combat school, and naval officers operating a naval tactical training system (INTS) located at the naval base warfare training center.
