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The Army Aviation Training Centre in Oakey, Queensland is establishing itself as a CH-47F maintenance training centre of excellence following the delivery of Australia’s first Maintenance Blended Reconfigurable Aviation Trainers (MBRATs) for the CH-47F.
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Delivered as part of Boeing Defence Australia’s sustained support solutions, the MBRATs establish the first in-country CH-47F maintenance training capability, an activity traditionally conducted in the United States.
Two MBRATs have been delivered by Boeing Defence Australia (BDA) under the Army Aviation Training and Training Support contract through subcontractor Kratos Defense and Security Solutions.
The new systems will provide Australian Army air maintenance personnel with a virtually immersive, full-task training experience that combines computer-based learning with replicated physical controls.
Lieutenant Colonel Robert Boughen said the MBRATs were an excellent complement to the CH-47F training aid suite.
“The functionality the MBRAT provides, as part of the training aid suite, in high fidelity fault replication and therefore diagnosis, enables the Rotary Wing Aircraft Maintenance School to generate aircraft and avionic technicians that are ready to support operations and capability outcomes,” said LTCOL Boughen.
BDA general manager integrated services and support Murray Brabrook said the decision to employ the new training systems underscored Boeing’s commitment to providing the Australian Defence Force (ADF) with sustained support solutions.
“BDA has worked in close partnership with the Australian Army to tailor a training package that brings Chinook maintenance training in-country, supporting maximum operational readiness and reducing costs,” said Brabrook.
“We can readily configure the MBRATs training system to suit the ADF helicopter fleet, whether that be Chinook or a future platform, ensuring longevity and adaptability of the trainers.”
The MBRATs form part of a larger BDA training support program to further strengthen BDA’s training capability while ensuring the Australian Army maintains a qualified crew of technicians to support domestic and international operations. This program includes delivery of a Chinook Avionic Trainer and a Chinook Helicopter Maintenance Training Aid, scheduled for delivery to Oakey in 2018.
