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CATS - Firex

Forward Observer / Forward Air Controller Training System

CATS Firex

CATS Firex

CATS Firex™ - CATS Firex™ is a simulator for training forward observers and forward air controllers in the delivery of indirect fire and close air support onto a variety of targets in different environments.

  • Any firing organization
  • Any firing procedures
  • Any numbers of rounds
  • Integrated pilot station

 

CATS Firex™ offers a safe, controlled, yet realistic environment for training. CATS Firex™ uses the proven CATS concept; this includes high quality screen projection of a simulated battlefield, surround sound effects, simulated equipment and usage of modern standard off-the-shelf technology.

 

Main Features:

  • All weapon types, including mortars, howitzers and rocket artillery
  • All munitions types, including smoke, illumination, terminally-homing projectiles and rockets
  • Simulated in field equipment
  • 3D terrain scenario
  • Multiple moving targets
  • Full weather effects
  • Surround sound effects
  • Exercise evaluation
  • Laser Rangefinder and Laser Target Designator


Artillery

The instructor is provided with precise simulated artillery units. All varieties of weapons and munitions can be simulated. Range tables or advanced ballistic models can be used. The trainees can use different methods to communicate their observations and call for fire to the instructor, including simulated radio communication and specialized signaling systems such as digital message devices.

 

Forward Air Controller / Close Air Support

The Forward Air Controller (FAC) identifies the target and calls in an air strike. Up to two missions each with a pilot and a FAC can be run in a single exercise. Laser Rangefinder and Laser Target Designator can be used by the FAC Team. There are three methods of determining a Close Air Support target within the simulator: 

  • The pilot uses a coordinate that is identified in the map.
  • The pilot uses a coordinate sent through the Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) Rear Brief of a FAC.
  • The target is illuminated by a Lazer Target Designator (LTD) handled by the Forward Observer Team (FOT).


Dynamic Workgroups

The CATS Firex™ may be setup with one or more dynamic workgroups tailored to the training requirements for the session and trainees; such as a forward observer team or selected members. The workgroup is made up of one or several computers configured for the specific training task. The workgroup provides 3D views and simulated equipment such as range and bearing finders, night vision aids, etc. Touch screens and animated panels are used to control the simulated equipment. Mock-ups can be used instead of simulated equipment.

 

Authenticity

Training efficiency can be further enhanced by creating challenges using simulation of fog, rain, snow, changing winds, smoke and a variety of events and effects, as well as varying daylight conditions. Various instruments, both real and simulated, may be used by the trainees such as laser range finders, compasses and binoculars. Exercises may be conducted individually or in groups and the trainee's performance assessed.

 

Further information

Attachments

CATS - Firex Brochure
2627 Kb [pdf]

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