Spanish Minister of Defense Margarita Robles and Secretary of State for Defense Amparo Valcarce have visited the Army Aviation Academy’s Helicopter Simulation Center (CESIHEL) to inspect Indra’s newly developed Chinook CH-47F helicopter simulator. It is the first simulator in Europe specifically built for the modernized CH-47F version.
The simulator is now being used to train the Transport Helicopter Battalion V (BHELTRA V) and completes an integrated training system that includes a flight training device (FTD) and a computer-based trainer (CBT). The system aims to reduce real flight hours by up to 40% while increasing pilot readiness, safety, and cost efficiency.
Developed using the same avionics equipment as the actual aircraft, the simulator offers full mission capability with a high degree of fidelity and future upgrade compatibility. Indra has applied a networked simulation architecture based on the HLA standard, enabling joint tactical training across multiple aircraft types and locations.
The system includes 4LED projection with infrared capability, allowing training with night vision goggles (NVG), as well as high-resolution environmental modeling for mission rehearsal in realistic scenarios.
According to Indra, the project is part of a broader effort to position CESIHEL as one of Europe’s most advanced simulation centers. The CH-47F Chinook, a transport helicopter with a 10-ton payload, is used globally for logistics, personnel transport, and rescue operations. Its modernized configuration is expected to remain in service beyond 2040.
