Simulation for training pilots is becoming more advanced and expensive and countries are looking for ways to use it without major investments. This has encouraged some companies to offer these services based on long experience in developing the hardware and operating it.
Based on the growing need, Elbit Systems is expanding its worldwide simulation services .The Israeli company has marked this business as one with a big growth potential.
The mix of its technical know how with its finacial abilities and the fact that many of its employees are serving in the reserve units of the Israeli airforce has made the Israeli company a perfect source for such training services.
Recently, Elbit Systems has been awarded a contract for the establishment of a Helicopter Pilot Training Center for Macedonia's Defense and Security Forces.
The project, valued at 43 million euros, will be operated under a private financing initiative (PFI) concept, in which Elbit Systems will provide a comprehensive solution, including the setting up of the training center, acquisition of aircraft, supply of full mission simulators and operation of the center for a period of eight years. The Pilot Training Center will prepare and qualify new pilots for the Macedonian defense and security forces, as well as provide training of active pilots.
In 2009, the Israeli company proved that it believes in the simulation business when it invested in a Beechcraft B-200 simulator complex it purchased from Mechtronix in Canada.
The simulator was adapted to the needs of the Israeli air force (IAF) by mixed teams of Elbit Systems and the manufacturer.
The IAF has immediately contracted Elbit Systems to supply the simulator services. Until then the B-200 (Zofit ) pilots were trained in simulators in the USA.
This business is expanding and with the price of fuel sky rocketing it is expected to continue doing so.
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