L-3’s [LLL] Link Simulation & Training (L-3 Link) said Feb. 12 it will retrofit one Aviation Combined Arms Tactical Trainer (AVCATT) suite with UH-72A Lakota Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) simulated platforms under a contract from the Army’s Program Executive Office for Simulation, Training & Instrumentation.
The initial upgrade will be at an Army National Guard (ARNG) AVCATT suite housed at South Carolina National Guard Base in Eastover, S.C.
Under the initial award, and any potential follow-on contract options, L-3 will deliver four UH-72A Lakota simulated platforms per AVCATT suite to support network-based training exercises.
If all contract options are exercised, L-3 Link could deliver 44 UH-72A Lakota manned modules for 11 AVCATT suites. The company does not disclose the value of contact awards.
“We are proud to add another platform to the AVCATT training system that will expand the Army National Guard’s ability to prepare for unexpected contingencies,” said Gary Coleman, L-3 Link’s vice president for Army programs. “Our focus during the development phase of the UH-72A Lakota upgrade will be on significantly reducing risk through the reuse of existing simulated avionics, flight models and display solutions, while maximizing the use of commercial-off-the-shelf hardware and software solutions.”
L-3’s AVCATT suite consists of six reconfigurable simulators, a battle master control room and an after-action review theater. UH-72A Lakota aircrews will be able to practice takeoffs and landings, formation flight, low-level flight maneuvers and emergency procedures in scenarios including disaster relief, medical evacuation, personnel recovery, homeland defense and counter-narcotics operations.