January 31, 2006 – In mid-2005, ASTi added DIS and HLA networking to an existing B-1B bomber Weapon Systems Trainer (WST) for demonstration and study by the USAF Distributed Mission Operations Center (DMOC, Kirtland AFB). This initial demonstration was deemed a success, and ASTi recently received a follow-on order from Rockwell Collins Simulation & Training (Sterling, VA) for five (5) more sets of equipment.

Each new system comprises one (1) Digital Audio Communication System (DACS) and one (1) Telestra platform, and allows for the reuse of the original B-1B WST communications model which has been tested and proven in fielded trial runs. This model supports the ARC-164, ARC-210 and ARC190 radios, and provides an additional coordination radio. Through simple changes to the configuration file, the communications model can run in either DIS- or HLA-based network mode as required by the specific exercise. The flexibility added by the new ASTi systems allows each of the previously-isolated WST simulators to join distributed, networked exercises run by DMOC.

Four operational systems are destined for Dyess AFB, TX and Ellsworth AFB, SD. The final set will be delivered to Rockwell Collins to serve as spare equipment for any of the five B-1B WST installations.