At the Farnborough International Airshow, the British training company HeliOperations and the German simulation specialist Reiser Simulation and Training signed a groundbreaking agreement. According to a release from Reiser, the company will deliver an advanced Flight Training Device (FTD) simulating the Leonardo AW139, as well as a stationary hoist training system named hoistAR. This new acquisition represents a central building block within the seven-year contract for the basic flight training of German Navy pilots preparing at HeliOps for their future operations on the NH90 Sea Lion and NH90 Sea Tiger naval helicopters.
Bundeswehr Training Contract
In 2024, the Bundeswehr concluded a seven-year contract with HeliOperations for the training of prospective German Navy helicopter pilots for the NH90 variants Sea Lion and Sea Tiger. The contract enables the execution of the so-called “Basic Flight Training” (BFT). This training is part of a modular curriculum that prepares flight crews step-by-step for the specialized operational scenarios of the German Navy. Completed following basic helicopter flight training, the BFT serves to build flying experience through overwater flight instruction and the learning of fundamental maritime operational tactics. Independent crew flights (without an instructor on board) are an integral component of this phase.
Flight Training Device and Hoist Trainer
The new Flight Training Device is built on Reiser’s Next Generation-FTD platform and simulates the AW139 in its current Phase 8 configuration. Thanks to a detailed flight dynamic model provided directly by manufacturer Leonardo, the software realistically replicates aircraft performance and avionics systems. Enhanced with full Night Vision Goggle (NVG) capability, a high-resolution six-channel visual projection system, and motion and vibration cueing, it offers students an immersive training environment. The device is designed to support qualification up to EASA FTD Level 3 and FAA FTD Level 7.
The second system, the hoistAR trainer, immerses hoist operators into a digital training environment using Extended Reality (XR). The key advantage lies in its networking capabilities: both simulators can be interconnected, allowing pilots and hoist operators to jointly practice complex missions such as deck landings and winch maneuvers as a coordinated team. Combined with live flight training on HeliOps’ AW139 fleet, the synthetic training capability provides ideal preparation for future naval pilots.
European Centre for Military Rotary-Wing Training
For HeliOperations, this investment marks an important step toward expanding its Portland site into one of Europe’s leading independent military rotary-wing training hubs. CEO Steve Gladston emphasized that combining military-qualified instructors, regulatory approvals, and state-of-the-art synthetic technology gives the company a clear competitive edge. Reiser CEO Dr. Johannes Hain also expressed pride in the partnership, highlighting their ability to deliver tailored training solutions.
Gerhard Heiming
