F-35 Pilots Practice Teaming With Navy Uncrewed AircraftAn F-35 Lightning II is shown operating alongside Collaborative Combat Aircraft. U.S. Navy graphic

The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) recently completed a major step in improving how F-35 Lightning II pilots work with the Navy’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA).

The demonstration took place in NAWCAD’s Joint Simulation Environment (JSE), a high-end virtual training system. It showed how advanced simulation can help develop new tactics for F-35 pilots flying alongside uncrewed combat aircraft.

During the event, F-35 pilots used touch-screen tablets to control several CCA during simulated missions. Within the virtual environment, pilots communicated with the uncrewed aircraft and employed precision weapons to counter challenging threats.

F-35 Pilots Practice A pilot operates a simulator inside the Naval Air Warfare Center.  U.S. Navy

The Joint Simulation Environment is the Department of War’s advanced digital training and testing range. Created by NAWCAD engineers, it combines cockpit simulators, powerful software, and large dome displays to recreate realistic combat situations. The system enables pilots to complete more training missions in a week than they could fly in a year on real-world ranges, thereby improving skills and readiness while maintaining safety.

“Modern warfare is demanding more from our aviators,” said NAWCAD Commander Rear Adm. Todd Evans. “This milestone shows the Joint Simulation Environment’s impact on equipping them with the advanced tactics they need to win future battles.”

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