BAE Systems Warton upgrades Radar Simulator

Micro Nav recently provided BAE Systems, Warton, UK with an upgrade to their existing ATC radar simulator. The ATC function at BAE Systems, Warton services a unique mix of civil, military and test flying.

The upgrade consisted of a complete hardware refresh and an upgrade to the latest version of the BEST (Beginning to End for Simulation and Training) ATC simulation software. The simulator installed is Micro Nav’s single-solution BEST simulator, complete with BEST Radar and BEST Link, providing a high-fidelity radar training platform.

BAE Systems, Warton received two BEST positions, one operating as the Supervisor/Pseudo Pilot, and the other acting as BEST Interface Manager.

The BEST Interface Manager fully integrates BEST with their Indra NOVA 9000 Air Traffic Control System equipment, which is a replica of their operational environment.

This allows the trainee controller to sit at an operational position and train in an identical environment that they would see in a live situation, with a pseudo pilot driving the simulated traffic.

The simulator is used to ensure controllers top up currency hours, where required, in addition to completing their procedural training.

Matt Slinger at BAE Systems, Warton said: “The simulator supports our training on complex procedures with respect to test profiles which cannot be practiced elsewhere, thereby increasing our operational safety. The simulator is well liked by the controllers, and its flexibility allowed us to tailor it to our own operation.”

Shane Hannam, Head of Sales & Marketing at Micro Nav, said: "It is always a great feeling when a long-standing customer continues to see the value of the BEST ATC simulator and Micro Nav's support services. BAE Systems, Warton are unique in how they use their simulator, and it is always fascinating to see the traffic mix, including fast jets, plus airspace intricacies that are tested and trained using the BEST simulator."

The simulator was first installed by Micro Nav in 2001. This was a milestone in Micro Nav’s history, marking the start of stimulation – its software integrating with an Oracle radar workstation – allowing controllers to benefit from training with the complete realism of the display being used for live air traffic control.