Boeing and Red 6 have successfully integrated and flown augmented reality (AR) in a TA-4J tactical aircraft as a precursor to integrating and testing the system in a T-7 advanced trainer.

Boeing and Red 6 announced an agreement last September to integrate Red 6's Advanced Tactical Augmented Reality System (ATARS) and Augmented Reality Command and Analytic Data Environment into fighter aircraft.

“Boeing is the first company to team with Red 6 on this type of advanced training technology,” said Donn Yates, executive director, Boeing Air Force Fighters and Trainers Business Development. “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. Combining Boeing's platforms, capabilities and knowledge with new and emerging companies like Red 6 creates better products and services for the warfighter.”

Using Red 6's patented technology, pilots will be able to see and interact with virtual aircraft, targets and threats on the ground and in the air, while also experiencing the cognitive loads of physically flying the airplane.

“We are very proud of our team's efforts to go from integration into the TA-4J to successfully flying the technology in less than a year,” said Thomas “Guns” Bergeson, president, Red 6. “We remain focused on delivering a fully synthetic, outdoor training environment that will transform training for future fighter pilots. The combination of T-7 and ATARS will usher in a new paradigm in training, directly impacting readiness and lethality.”

Boeing's Air Dominance organisation continues to partner with startups across industry, seeking new and leading-edge systems such as ATARS. Testbed capabilities developed by Boeing and non-traditional industry partners reduces risk for future programs.