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In an Australian and world first, the Australian Department of Defence and Lockheed Martin have successfully connected F-35 full mission simulators at Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) bases Williamtown and Tindal using the F-35’s cutting-edge distributed mission training (DMT) network.
This milestone makes Australia the first international F-35 customer to implement this advanced training capability, significantly bolstering the global readiness and interoperability of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter fleet.
“With distributed mission training, we’re not just connecting simulators – we’re connecting pilots and strengthening operations for 21st-century security,” said Raashi Quattlebaum, vice president of F-35 training and logistics at Lockheed Martin.
“By training together in a virtual environment, F-35 pilots can build the skills and confidence they need to dominate the skies and execute their missions.”
The connection bridges a distance of over 2,800 kilometres between the two RAAF bases, enabling pilots to participate in integrated, virtual training exercises regardless of their physical location. DMT allows pilots from around the world to rehearse complex missions in a realistic, simulated environment – enhancing their tactical readiness while reducing wear and tear on physical aircraft.
Rob Weitzman, Lockheed Martin program director for F-35 Australia, noted the significant benefits of the capability. “Establishing a distributed mission training network between RAAF bases Williamtown and Tindal provides Australia with an advanced training capability that will enhance the readiness of its pilots while reducing the sustainment costs of its 72 F-35As – the largest fleet of Joint Strike Fighters outside of the US,” he said.
“Lockheed Martin has established our most significant F-35 sustainment presence outside the US in Australia, and we are proud to work with the Department of Defence and our local industry partners to deliver this record-breaking training capability milestone.”
The F-35 full mission simulator provides an immersive, secure training environment that allows pilots to rehearse diverse scenarios, experiment with tactics, and perform repeated exercises all without leaving the ground. This method of training not only increases safety and efficiency but also lowers operational costs.
Lockheed Martin, as the sustainment lead for the RAAF’s F-35 program, works closely with local Australian partners, including training provider Milskil. More than 75 Australian companies have secured over $5 billion in contracts through their involvement in the F-35 program, supporting areas such as advanced manufacturing, supply chain logistics, and aircraft sustainment.
Globally, Lockheed Martin has trained over 2,915 F-35 pilots and 18,105 maintainers across 30 international bases. The company’s full mission simulator continues to be a game changer in defence aviation training, replicating the aircraft’s hardware and software for a smooth transition from simulation to live operations.
Stephen Kuper
Steve has an extensive career across government, defence industry and advocacy, having previously worked for cabinet ministers at both Federal and State levels.
