The Royal Air Force (RAF) is poised to embark on an innovative journey by integrating Red 6’s Advanced Tactical Augmented Reality System (ATARS) into their Hawk T.2 jets. This initiative is set to revolutionize pilot training, utilizing augmented reality (AR) to create a more dynamic and realistic training environment. The collaboration between the RAF, Red 6, and the National Security Strategic Investment Fund (NSSIF) signifies a pivotal advancement in military training technology.
The RAF has a long-standing history of pioneering advancements in aviation. From the early days of biplanes to the state-of-the-art Eurofighter Typhoon, the RAF has constantly pushed the boundaries of aerial combat. The introduction of ATARS marks the latest chapter in this ongoing legacy of innovation. Red 6, a U.S.-based company founded in 2018, has developed ATARS as a multi-node, all-domain AR system. This cutting-edge system delivers a comprehensive outdoor synthetic training environment for multiple users, allowing pilots to experience the cognitive demands of physically flying aircraft while benefiting from the value of synthetic environments. This enables them to participate in realistic, scalable, and simulated training scenarios outdoors, thus enhancing the overall training experience.
In June 2023, Red 6 announced a strategic agreement with the RAF and NSSIF. This collaboration aims to bolster the UK’s Military Flying Training System (UKMFTS) by integrating advanced AR technologies into the training ecosystem. NSSIF, the UK government’s corporate venturing arm for dual-use advanced technologies, also participated as an investor in Red 6’s recent $70 million Series B capital raising round. Daniel Robinson, Founder and CEO of Red 6, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing the potential for a paradigm shift in training for UK fighter pilots. Robinson, who has served with both the RAF and the USAF, underscored the importance of interoperability and joint training environments to excel in high-end combat scenarios.
The integration of ATARS into the RAF’s Hawk T.2 jets is anticipated to have a profound impact on pilot training. The system’s capability to create realistic, outdoor synthetic training environments will allow pilots to train in scenarios that closely mimic real-world combat situations. This will enhance their cognitive skills, improve readiness and lethality, and reduce the overextension of resources. Air Vice Marshal Ian Townsend, Air Officer Commanding No. 22 Group, RAF, highlighted the importance of exploiting novel technologies to sustain the RAF’s combat edge. He emphasized that the collaboration with Red 6 is integral to ensuring that the RAF can produce the best combat pilots possible. The use of AR technology presents an exciting opportunity to improve training methodologies and outcomes, pushing the RAF to the forefront of military training innovation.
ATARS is meticulously designed to deliver a complete outdoor synthetic training environment for multiple users. It allows pilots to experience the cognitive demands of physically flying aircraft while capturing the value of synthetic environments. The system enables pilots to engage in realistic, scalable, simulated training scenarios outdoors, significantly enhancing their training experience. One of the standout features of ATARS is its ability to present virtual and constructive assets in the real world. This capability means that pilots and ground operators can see synthetic threats in real-time, outdoors, and in high-speed environments. The system’s wide field-of-view and full-color capabilities position it as a demonstrably proven solution for dynamic outdoor environments.
The RAF’s adoption of ATARS marks the beginning of what could be a broader transformation in military training. The capacity to create realistic, scalable, and dynamic training environments using AR technology has the potential to revolutionize how military forces around the globe train their personnel. As technology continues to evolve, the integration of AR and other advanced technologies into military training is expected to become more widespread. This evolution will not only enhance the effectiveness of training programs but also ensure that military forces are better prepared to face the challenges of modern warfare.
The RAF’s trial of Red 6’s ATARS in their Hawk T.2 jets represents a significant milestone in the evolution of military training. Leveraging the power of AR, the RAF is set to create a more dynamic, realistic, and effective training environment for its pilots. This collaboration heralds the dawn of a new era in military training, one that promises to enhance readiness, improve outcomes, and ensure the continued excellence of the RAF.
