“The potential for autonomous air-to-air combat has been imaginable for decades, but the reality has remained a distant dream up until now. In 2023, the X-62A broke one of the most significant barriers in combat aviation. This is a transformational moment, all made possible by breakthrough accomplishments of the X-62A ACE team,” said Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall.

VISTA, now designated X-62A, has provided TPS students the ability to experience various flying conditions including simulation of other aircrafts’ characteristics for decades. “The redesignation reflects the research done on the aircraft over the past almost 30 years, as well as acknowledges the major upgrade program that is ongoing to support future USAF autonomy testing,” said Dr. Chris Cotting, USAF TPS Director of Research.

Derived from the F-16, the VISTA's acronym comes from Variable stability In-flight Simulator Test Aircraft. Although coupling the terms "In-flight" and "Simulator" may sound counterintuitive, this is one of the few aircraft in the world that can be configured to simulate any other airplane in the world. Its impressive simulation capabilities thus make it the ultimate pilot training instrument, as it can be programmed to behave as a massive B-52 heavy bomber or a nimble HAL Tejas light fighter.

Today’s Flight Management Systems must perform a multitude of complex tasks without compromising safety. GE Aviation has created the TrueCourse™ FMS which is structured around a common framework that componentizes all software functions into reusable components. These components are designed for easy update and adaptation by providing each component with reusable certification artifacts, thus reducing the cost of change.

FlightSafety uses patented methods, immersive technology, and countless training scenarios so customers know exactly what to do when it is real. FSI designs, manufactures, and integrates the highest quality and most advanced simulation products in the world. They leverage decades of experience and world class engineering and manufacturing capabilities to provide a powerful suite of innovative products. For this reason, organizations worldwide rely on FSI's simulators for their training programs.