MacDill upgrades flight simulator

The flight simulation and training system is newly upgraded with the latest visual system at MacDill Air Force Base, Fla. The upgrades include a projector replacement, scene processors, out-the-window channels, adding 21 moving models and installing 35 new databases to improve the visual system of the trainer. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jenay Randolph/Released)

MacDill upgrades flight simulator

Col. Brain Smith, 6th Operations Group commander, takes the first flight in MacDill’s newly upgraded flight simulation and training system, June 29, 2015 at MacDill Air Force Base, Fla. The upgrades allow for easier maintenance and cost efficiency, more realistic aerial refueling training, along with expanded airfield and operating area capabilities to create more training credited without loss of realism. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jenay Randolph/Released)

MacDill upgrades flight simulator

Published June 30, 2015
By Senior Airman Jenay Randolph
6th Air Mobility Wing public affairs

MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Beginning April 23, 2015, the KC-135R simulation and training system at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, became the 17th device to receive the latest virtual upgrades Air Force wide.

Col. Brian Smith, 6th Operations Group commander, took MacDill's first virtual flight in the newly upgraded flight simulation and training system, "flight simulator", June 29, 2015. T
he upgrades included a projector replacement, scene processors, out-the-window channels, adding 21 moving models and installing 35 new databases to improve the visual system of the trainer.

"With these upgrades the simulator is more realistic, which in turn provides better training to all pilots using the simulator," expressed Maj. Jeremy Regans, 6th Operations Support Squadron director of operations. "Now our pilots should be more equipped to fly and complete the overall flying and refueling mission from training with the new upgraded trainer."

The upgrades allow for easier maintenance and cost efficiency, more realistic aerial refueling training, along with expanded airfield and operating area capabilities to create more training credited without loss of realism.

In addition, the improvements have increased the landing requirement completion rate from 50 percent to 100 percent, and provided improved weather and cloud representations, including realistic thunderstorms.

"I am excited for the pilots, boom operators and crew force to experience this new trainer," expressed Smith after taking the first ride in the new simulator. "The new level of detail and visual reference creates a more clear, accurate, and realistic flying experience."