Helicopter manufacturer Sikorsky announced last week that it will build a new helicopter flight simulator and training center in Colombia.
The flight simulator will feature a detailed replica of a Black Hawk, complete with exterior view simulation and a motion system that will simulate flight including wind turbulence. The training center will be staffed with two experienced Black Hawk pilots to provide guidance to Colombia’s air force.
Sikorsky said that it was committed to providing training and maintenance service to Colombia’s armed forces, who rank among the companies largest customers. “Colombia is a very important Black Hawk customer and we are dedicated to furthering in-country aftermarket services,” said Sikorsky President David Adler. “Earlier this year, we expanded our service platform to include a maintenance support team. And currently, we are advancing depot capabilities for crash and battle damaged aircraft.”
Colombia’s armed forces currently operate 72 Black Hawks split between the air force, army, and national police. Colombia is currently estimated to possess the fourth largest black hawk fleet in the world, after the U.S., South Korea, and Turkey.