Working in collaboration with BAE Systems, Williams Advanced Engineering has unveiled a cockpit simulator that will be used by aerospace engineers to develop the next generation of cockpit designs for future fast jets.

The collaboration between two leading engineering companies brings advanced Formula One-bred design and engineering know-how to the design of a twin-seat cockpit simulator which will be used by engineers, aircrew and customers to optimise the design of the future cockpit.

The simulator provides modular features and interactive screens which can be reconfigured as required, along with the ergonomic design of a Formula 1 car.

Future aircraft concepts

The new simulator is capable of simulating a range of aircraft including the Hawk, Typhoon and other future aircraft concepts, and forms part of a suite of simulation devices at BAE Systems’ Air site in Lancashire.

Craig Wilson, Managing Director of Williams Advanced Engineering, said: “Having experience in providing our own training simulators for both Formula One and Formula E as well as to automotive customers, it is great to be able to deliver this new system to our partners at BAE Systems.

“We are applying our capabilities across training and simulation, aerodynamics, electrification, manufacturing and lightweight and composite materials to ever more sectors and defence is a natural fit for our team to apply their expertise.”

Innovation collaboration

Julia Sutcliffe, Chief Technologist, BAE Systems Air, added: “Working with other leading innovative companies like Williams Advanced Engineering is a key focus for BAE Systems. In this case, we’ve been able to introduce design features that we wouldn’t have normally considered and we’ve done it quickly. This project, along with many others, such as our work with Reaction Engines on a hypersonic rocket engine and developing a solar powered air vehicle with aerospace SME Prismatic Ltd, all reinforce our commitment to introducing new technologies quickly and effectively through collaboration and partnering.”

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