Vrgineers was selected by Lockheed Martin to participate in a pilot training industrial cooperation project for the F-35 as part of the initiative to supply the Czech Republic with two squadrons of 5th generation jet fighters. In this strategic partnership, Vrgineers will be responsible for the development and delivery of unclassified next generation training simulators, specifically tailored to support Czech pilots. While these simulators may not replicate the precise behavior of the training aircraft with 100% accuracy, they are designed to meet certain training procedures and familiarization requirements. This development marks a significant milestone in ensuring the readiness and competence of the Czech Republic’s pilot training programs.
“The Czech Air Force has many years of experience in the operational deployment of tactical aircraft. The introduction and use of tactical simulators that can be easily packed, transported and assembled to train tactical scenarios and the broad spectrum of missions outside of the main operational base will enable the currency of our pilots even during long-term deployments. New trends of VR and MR enable this requirement, and thanks to the agreed industrial cooperation between LM and Vrgineers as part of the F-35 contract, CzAF will have an opportunity to use such a system,” says BG Jaroslav Mika, Deputy Director of the Force Development Division of the Ministry of Defence.
“We are honored to be part of F-35 Industrial Cooperation Programme in Czech Republic and committed to support pilot training with all the technologies and capabilities our Vrgineers team can offer,” says Marek Polcak, co-founder and CEO of Vrgineers.
A notable feature of these training simulators is their non-confidential mode, allowing for operation in non-secure environments. This key attribute enhances accessibility by eliminating the need for specialized secured rooms, making the simulators readily available for pilot training. Moreover, the simulators are engineered for quick and easy setup and operation. This user-friendly approach ensures that pilots have continuous access to these invaluable training tools, thereby enhancing their preparation for the challenges and missions they will face. This accessibility not only optimizes the training process but also contributes to overall readiness and effectiveness.
The Czech Republic government signed a Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA) today making official its intent to procure 24 Lockheed Martin 5th Generation F-35 Lightning II aircraft. Through the U.S. government Foreign Military Sale, the Czech Air Force will receive its first aircraft in 2031, which will be in the latest advanced Block 4 configuration. In addition to the aircraft, the procurement also includes personnel training, service and logistical support, and developing other support services ensuring successful deliveries of all 24 F-35s. It is also the fighter aircraft in production today that will create jobs for the next 40-50 years and enable strategic industrial partnerships with Czech industry.
