Aerospace giant Boeing and augmented reality (AR) vendor Red 6 have successfully integrated and flown AR in a TA-4J tactical aircraft.
The move comes after the two companies agreed on collaborating to integrate Red 6’s advanced tactical augmented reality system (ATARS) and AR command and analytic data environment into fighter aircraft.
The integration and flying of AR inside an aircraft is a precursor to integrating and testing the mixed reality system in a T-7 advanced trainer.
The technology allows pilots to see and interact with virtual aircraft, targets and threats on the ground and in the air while simultaneously experiencing the cognitive loads of physically flying the aircraft.
Red 6 is working to develop a fully synthetic, outdoor training environment to transform how future fighter pilots train. For Boeing, it is another way the company is seeking to develop non-traditional ways to reduce risk to pilots for future programs.
“The successful series of ground tests and four flight sorties illustrate our collaborative ability to rapidly integrate, deliver and test new technology with the potential to change fighter pilot training for an entire generation,” said Donn Yates, executive director of air force fighters and trainers business development at Boeing. “Combining Boeing’s platforms, capabilities and knowledge with new and emerging companies like Red 6 creates better products and services for the warfighter.”
