ASCOT

ASCOT is a real-time interactive simulation tool that easily manages the entire battlespace from single ship Close Air Support (CAS) missions to multi-axis, multi-ship Special Operations. Multiple systems can be networked together at a single site, or at multiple sites around the world for dynamic large-scale joint and coalition exercises.

ASCOT is fielded as a major component of the USAF's DMO simulation-based training program. AWACS Mission Training Center (MTC) uses the Instructor Operator Station (IOS) version of ASCOT for daily training.

Exercise Generator

ASCOT provides real-time generation and control of the joint virtual battlespace for warfighter training. Pre-scripted air, land, and maritime entities can be taken over and dynamically controlled within ASCOT, or new entities can be quickly created on the fly. Sim drivers have full control of each entity's weapon, sensor, IFF, and data-link system. Weapon and sensor systems can be put in auto-fire mode having the entity detect and engage opposing forces on it's own. Sending aircraft auto-RTB, executing automated tactics and on routes in and out of target areas further alleviate driver workload.

The flexibility of ASCOT gives Instructors and Exercise Directors the capability to control exercise tempo and dynamically direct the exercise focus to meet the training needs of the audience.

Data-Link

Link 16 and Link 11 messages can be dynamically sent by an operator, or set-up to be automatically transmitted when triggered by operational events. Where appropriate, the majority of a message is auto-filled with the real-time data to decrease sim driver tasking and increase scenario realism.

ASCOT can send link messages on behalf of any DIS entity in the scenario allowing non-link capable sim plaforms to play in data-link exercises. Track production areas automatically generate a link picture for the battlespace.

Interoperability

ASCOT integrates with other simultion platforms through DIS or HLA. It is a major component of the DMO AWACS MTC intergrating with virtual F-15 and F-16 cockpits across the network. Live Aircraft Control allows real-time integration of live aircraft platforms into the simulation platform.

ASCOT interfaces directly into operational equipment (Air Force MCE, Marine TAOM, Navy BFTT and ACSIS, Army FMS-D, US-UK-NATO-French AWACS) and produces a realistic Radar/IFF picture on operational displays from a scenario location.

Database Driven

To the maximum extent possible all entity models and behaviors, scenario data, data-links, etc., are described in databases. This gives operators full control of their scenario environment and the flexibility in customizing map displays, Entity Display Block data and Track Block data.

Virtual Battlespace

ASCOT creates a realistic virtual battlespace by using real-world data and models. DTED is used to clamp ground entities to terrain and prevent radar detection of aircraft behind mountains. Jamming is injected by type and intensity against Radar and IFF. Damage assessment is based on weapon type, warhead size/type, and target size/armor.

Click here to see a video covering ASCOT. (18.3MB)