The simulators can be used as stand-alone training devices or linked for formation and collective training exercises. The final device, the second Merlin simulator, is due to be brought on line in April 2001. A training management information system to simplify the administration task and to ensure the optimum scheduling of training sessions and recording of all training activities. A team of highly experienced ex-military instructors committed to maintaining and developing professional standards. Training In the safety of a simulator cockpit, pilots, navigator and crewman can experience highly authentic reproductions of emergency conditions.
Students undergo a conversion course in the ground school before progressing to the simulators.
For students undergoing type conversion, they will then spend 55 hours in the simulators before moving on to fly 23 hours in real helicopters. My crews did not join to spend long hours in simulators - we have to make sure the crews understand why they are doing training in simulators. A custom designed building at RAF Benson provides classrooms, offices and houses six simulators. VEGA has provided a full set of groundschool courseware at the training facility and will be supporting this over the next 20 years. This ensures that the courseware can rapidly reflect aircraft and operational changes and associated hardware will be maintained to the highest standards.