Spain’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) has taken delivery of the last unit of the Chinook CH-47F helicopter at the Colmenar Viejo base of the Spanish Army Airmobile Force (FAMET).
This modernised version of the helicopter features a lighter and more resistant carbon fibre airframe, a loading capacity of ten tonnes, can transport dozens of soldiers, digital flight systems, and has communications systems adapted to the Single European Sky regulations.
The helicopter is now a part of the Fifth Transport Helicopter Battalion (BHELTRA V).
Spain Defence Minister Margarita Robles said: “We are going to continue with this commitment to modernisation, industry and technology.
She also said that “to improve capabilities and ensure that the Armed Forces have the best, so that there can be better security, because investing in defence is security”.
A new simulator has also been introduced that uses advanced technology unique to Europe, complementing the introduction of the helicopter.
Pilots tasked with operating the Chinook, a heavy-lift helicopter with significant cargo capacity, must undergo rigorous training.
Indra’s latest simulation system provides comprehensive training that extends beyond piloting the aircraft to include collaboration with deployed forces.
The MoD said that the use of this virtual training environment can reduce actual flight time by up to 40% for essential pilot training, including basic instruction and sophisticated tactical manoeuvres.
This reduction enhances safety in flight operations and cuts down on various costs associated with real-world operations, such as maintenance expenses, fuel consumption, material wear and tear, and ammunition usage.
Indra designed the simulator to mirror the actual aircraft’s avionics equipment closely, ensuring high fidelity in training and compatibility with future upgrades to the aircraft.
Indra Simulation Programs head José María Tapia said: “The modernisation of the Simulation System of the Chinook helicopter constitutes a further step in the work that the Army and Indra have performed for decades to turn the CESIHEL into one of the most advanced simulation centres in Europe.
“Spain has opted for joint tactical training consisting of the pilots not only preparing to fly their aircraft, but also completing their missions with the utmost efficiency, coordinating with the rest of the deployed force.”
The company has also integrated a networked simulation architecture based on the HLA standard, allowing for joint tactical training across multiple simulators and platforms such as Tiger, Cougar, EC135, and NH90.
The system incorporates a 4LED technology-based projection system, adding an infra-red light channel for night-vision goggle training, and high-definition modelling of terrains and settings.
This allows pilots to become familiar with their mission environments before deployment, enhancing the realism and effectiveness of their training.
