IDEF 2017: Havelsan will showcase simulator for the TAI T-129 ATAK

Havelsan will showcase its simulator system for the Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) T-129 ATAK attack helicopters at the International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF), which will take place in Istanbul in May.

As per Havelsan, the T-129 simulator system comprises of two simulator systems: one for learning to use the T-129’s flight and avionics systems, and another to manage its weapon systems. Havelsan developed the simulators to match with real-world conditions as closely as possible. Contributing aspects include the use of satellite images, 3D models, environmental challenges and technical malfunctions.

Using the simulator, pilots will become familiar with the ATAK’s cockpit, helmet-mounted display system, electro-optical and infrared sensor pod and countermeasures suite. The system also simulates the ATAK’s weapons suite, which comprises of the UMTAS anti-tank guided missile, Cirit laser-guided rocket, 20 mm gun, unguided rockets and Stinger air-to-air missiles.

Collectively, these attributes are designed to both acclimate pilots to the T-129 as well as prepare them for potential challenges. Both simulators will be marketed together as one package.

Havelsan is Turkey’s leading manufacturer of simulator systems, particularly for aircraft. The company’s HELSİM platform is responsible for the Turkish Armed Forces (TSK) with simulators for Cougar and Black Hawk transport and utility helicopters. Havelsan also has simulator suites for the Leonardo AW139 utility helicopter, Lockheed Martin F-16 and F-4-2000 Phantom, among other applications.

Pakistan is among Havelsan’s customers. In 2012, Havelsan signed a memorandum-of-understanding with the Pakistan armed forces on the development and supply of simulator systems to the Pakistan Army and Pakistan Air Force. Havelsan is also supporting Pakistan in its development of C4I [Command, Control, Communications and Intelligence] systems. The latest transaction from the company was by the Pakistan Navy for a Naval Integrated Command and Control Suite for the Agosta 90B submarine upgrade program.