Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Defence
  • /
  • RAAF IFC graduates supported by advanced CAA synthetic training

Defence

RAAF IFC graduates supported by advanced CAA synthetic training

CAE today announced it has supported the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) in the trial and implementation of advanced synthetic training capabilities as part of the Introductory Fighter Course (IFC) at RAAF Base Williamtown.

Above: The latest graduates of the RAAF’s Introductory Fighter Course made extensive use of synthetic training with support from CAE.
Courtesy Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).

The first class of pilots taking part in the IFC leveraging an increased use of synthetic training, including networked simulators, recently graduated and are now proceeding to training on their assigned fast-jet aircraft.

Advertisement
ODU RT

Utilising the two CAE-built Hawk Mk127 full-mission simulators at RAAF Williamtown, CAE and RAAF training personnel developed new virtual training scenarios focused on a range of advanced mission profiles, including air combat maneuvering and multi-jet intercept. In addition to enhancing the operating performance of constructive computer-generated forces within the training scenarios, CAE added realism to the advanced final stages of lead-in fighter training by networking the two FMSs, thus allowing multiple students and instructors to fly the same mission or fly against each other.

For its support in developing and implementing the enhancements to the Introductory Fighter Course, CAE Australia received a Certificate of Appreciation from Air Vice-Marshal Catherine Roberts, Head of the Aerospace Systems Division, Royal Australian Air Force.

Above: CAE staff at RAAF Williamtown are presented with a Certificate of Appreciation by Air Vice-Marshal Catherine Roberts and other members of the Royal Australian Air Force.
Courtesy Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF)

Advertisement
Security & Policing Rectangle

“CAE developed new lesson plans and mission scenarios to accurately simulate elements of the Introductory Fighter Course traditionally conducted in airborne events,” said Air Vice-Marshal Roberts. “Maximum training benefit was delivered by supporting our 76 Squadron flying instructors in the use of the new mission profiles, and CAE’s efforts have been outstanding in supporting the Lead-In Fighter Training enterprise for the RAAF.”

During the latest IFC, use of the two Hawk Mk127 FMSs more than doubled compared to previous courses. RAAF and CAE instructors delivered the simulator training after rapid development of the new mission training scenarios. In addition, CAE’s on-site maintenance and support personnel introduced improved maintenance procedures to ensure maximum availability for the increased use of the simulators.

“The enhanced Introductory Fighter Course is a great example of how a government-industry relationship should work to deliver value and capability,” said Ian Bell, CAE’s Vice President and General Manager, Asia/Pacific/Middle East. “We are honoured to be part of the integrated team supporting the RAAF’s lead-in fighter training program at both RAAF Williamtown and RAAF Pearce, and privileged to play a role in helping prepare its next-generation fighter pilots.”
 

 

Advertisement
General Atomics LB
BAE Systems awarded MoD contract for RAF Typhoon advanced radar

Defence

BAE Systems awarded MoD contract for RAF Typhoon advanced radar

23 January 2026

The UK Ministry of Defence has awarded BAE Systems a contract worth £453.5 million for the full production of a new advanced radar for the Royal Air Force (RAF) Typhoon aircraft.

GM Defense establishes UK entity

Defence

GM Defense establishes UK entity

23 January 2026

GM Defense has launched GM Defense UK, creating a dedicated presence to support UK defence, operating from GM’s sites in Leamington Spa and Silverstone.

NP Aerospace and ITEN Defense form strategic partnership

Defence

NP Aerospace and ITEN Defense form strategic partnership

23 January 2026

NP Aerospace has formed a strategic partnership with ITEN Defense, a US-based specialist in opaque and transparent armour technologies.

Babcock announces CEO retirement and succession

Defence

Babcock announces CEO retirement and succession

23 January 2026

Babcock International Group plc today announced the decision of David Lockwood, Group Chief Executive, to retire by the end of this calendar year and the Board has chosen Harry Holt, the current CEO of Babcock's Nuclear sector, as his successor.

Advertisement
Security & Policing Rectangle
Babcock and UoE report heralds SMEs role in defence resilience

Defence

Babcock and UoE report heralds SMEs role in defence resilience

22 January 2026

A new report by Babcock International and the University of Exeter (UoE) has called for significant reforms to help Small and Medium sized Enterprises (SMEs) more readily support UK defence and overcome common challenges.

Farnborough International Airshow 2026 unveils new features

Aerospace Defence Security Space Events

Farnborough International Airshow 2026 unveils new features

22 January 2026

The Farnborough International Airshow 2026, returning from 20th to 24th July 2026, will be the largest and most ambitious event in its 78-year history, following record-breaking demand and the addition of a brand-new sixth exhibition hall

Advertisement
ODU RT
Advertisement
General Atomics LB