Tanker Trainers - Air Refueling

CAE has extensive experience developing part-task trainers specifically designed for training boom operators and air refueling officers. CAE has expertise in visual modelling for boom and hose-and-drogue refueling training scenarios, and understands the unique challenges of the air-to-air refueling (AAR) task, both from the viewpoint of a receiver aircraft and the tanker itself.

CAE has a scalable scope of simulation-based training solutions that can include fuel transfer, boom extension/retraction and fuel delivery system malfunctions. CAE has delivered several programs that included scalable levels of fidelity, from basic air-to-air refueling procedures to very high fidelity training systems based on actual flight test data. For example, CAE has developed and delivered several A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) air refueling officer part-task trainers (ARO PTT) to air forces such as the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and UAE Air Force. The CAE-developed ARO PTT is a sophisticated, high-fidelity training device designed to train the air refueling officer – often called the boom operator – on the demanding tasks of a refueling mission in a safe, cost-effective synthetic environment. On the A330 MRTT aircraft, the air refueling officer sits near the flight deck in an aft-facing console just behind the pilot/co-pilot. This is different from previous generation tankers such as the KC-135 and KC-10 where the boomer is in the tail of the aircraft. The CAE-built ARO PTT features a seven-channel CAE Medallion-6000 visual system combined with 3D goggles and displays to provide a realistic 3D view of the boom itself and approaching receiver aircraft. Using the ARO PTT, crews can practice the procedures and techniques of air refueling operations to become proficient, thus significantly reducing the amount of airborne training required.