Beca, with the support of Leonardo and Virtual Simulation Systems (VSS), has been selected to upgrade the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) AW109 LUH Helicopter Simulator and provide ongoing through life support programs.
Andrew Ford, Beca’s Market Segment Lead – Defence & National Security says the ten-year support program will see new RNZAF pilots being trained on a modern simulator with technical support available onsite and at any time.
“We are delighted to be supporting the Simulator upgrade and the through life capability for the NZDF," Ford said. "We are also excited to continue our partnerships with Leonardo and Virtual Simulation Systems to bring the NZDF training simulation up to date and support the RNZAF and NZDF over the next ten years of pilot training.”
This partnership model with Leonardo and Virtual Simulation Systems (the original equipment manufacturers) brings international expertise to complement Beca’s experience in local operations and maintenance capability. Together, the partners expect to deliver a 'comprehensive technology upgrade' and provide local through life support to NZDF for helicopter flight training.
Beca has been delivering simulator support onsite at Ohakea Air Base for the last 10 years and this new partnership model will allow Defence to "outsource that support completely, freeing NZDF staff for operational support of the aircraft", according to the company.
Leonardo will be providing the technical design and will work with Beca to ensure the flight simulator upgrade installation is delivered successfully. Leonardo will also provide ongoing engineering and supply chain support over the next ten years.
VSS will be providing crewman simulation technology upgrade including AR/VR elements and engineering support for the next ten years.