NAWCAD simulation milestone advances F-35 Lightning II integration with U.S. Navy collaborative combat aircraft

By Martin Chomsky (Defence Industry Europe)

The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division has completed a tactical demonstration advancing the integration of the F-35 Lightning II with the Navy’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft in its Joint Simulation Environment. The event showed how advanced modelling and simulation can be used to develop tactics for fifth-generation aircraft operating alongside uncrewed combat systems.
Image: U.S. Navy.

The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division has completed a tactical demonstration advancing the integration of the F-35 Lightning II with the Navy’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft in its Joint Simulation Environment. The event showed how advanced modelling and simulation can be used to develop tactics for fifth-generation aircraft operating alongside uncrewed combat systems.

 

“Modern warfare is demanding more from our aviators,” said Rear Adm. Todd Evans, Commander of NAWCAD. “This milestone shows the Joint Simulation Environment’s impact on equipping them with the advanced tactics they need to win future battles.”

 

 

During the demonstration, F-35 pilots used touch-screen tablets to control multiple Collaborative Combat Aircraft during simulated missions in the highly realistic virtual environment. Using advanced operational communications and precision-guided weapons, pilots engaged complex threats while refining tactics in a safe, controlled setting.

 

 

The Joint Simulation Environment is the Department of War’s digital test and training range, built by NAWCAD engineers to replicate real-world combat scenarios and enable more frequent training than open-air ranges. NAWCAD plans to expand the environment in fiscal year 2026 with additional platforms, including the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler, while also supporting wider Navy and Air Force training across multiple US bases.

 

Tags:

Related news & articles

Latest news

Featured