Companion Trainer Aircraft: Concept Definition and Evaluation

Abstract

Faced with increasing budget constraints and a need to conserve the B-52 weapon system, the Strategic Air Command has pursued several avenues to make continuation training programs more efficient. Because actual flight training is considered to be critical, one proposed solution involved the use of a low cost business jet to supplement reduced B-52 flying schedules. This jet would be augmented to provide training for the radar navigator, navigator, and electronic warfare officer in addition to the pilot and copilot. Some training missions would be flown in this Companion Trainer Aircraft (CTA) to reduce the need to fly the B-52. This paper describes two efforts concerning training effectiveness of a possible CTA. First, a theoretical approach based on transfer of training considerations was used to predict the training potential of the CTA. Second, because the transfer expectations for the pilot and copilot were particularly difficult to specify, a study was designed involving operational SAC crews. This study employed a modified T-39B to supplement B-52 training for eight aircrews from the 2nd Bombardment Wing, Barksdale Air Force Base, LA. Although the CTA program was cancelled and the test was terminated early, crew responses to the program and problems encountered provide valuable lessons for any future CTA program.