The U.S. Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) has made significant progress in integrating the F-35 Lightning II with the U.S. Navy’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program.
This achievement was demonstrated during a recent tactical event in the Joint Simulation Environment (JSE), a high-fidelity virtual environment used for testing and training.
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The demonstration highlighted how advanced modeling and simulation is being used to develop tactics and strategies for fifth-generation aircraft operating in conjunction with unmanned combat systems. “This milestone demonstrates the impact the Joint Simulation Environment has in providing aviation personnel with the advanced tactics they need to win future battles,” said Maj. Gen. Todd Evans, NAWCAD commander.
During the exercise, F-35 pilots used touchscreen tablets to control multiple CCA aircraft in simulated missions. They used advanced operational communications systems and precision-guided missiles to respond to complex threats in highly realistic virtual environments.
JSE is the U.S. Department of Defense’s next-generation digital test and training environment designed to recreate real-world combat scenarios in a secure and controlled virtual environment. The system, developed by NAWCAD engineers, integrates a cockpit simulator, advanced software and an immersive visual dome. This infrastructure will allow pilots to accomplish more missions in just one week than they could in a year in outdoor training airspace, greatly increasing readiness.
CCA aircraft are multi-mission unmanned combat aircraft designed to operate alongside manned combat aircraft to increase the platform’s effectiveness in highly competitive environments. It is positioned as a core part of the Department of Defense’s future strategy as it allows pilots to focus on high-level decision-making while expanding operational capabilities.
NAWCAD also revealed that the JSE will continue to integrate new platforms, with the addition of the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, and EA-18G Growler planned for fiscal year 2026 to enable integrated testing and training.
NAWCAD hosts dozens of squadrons and hundreds of pilots each year, fostering integration and international cooperation in advanced air combat training. JSE expansion also includes new Navy and Air Force facilities being developed at Naval Air Station Fallon, Nellis Air Force Base, and Edwards Air Force Base in Nevada.
Source and image: Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) | X @northropgrumman. This content was created with the assistance of AI and reviewed by the editorial department.
