The US Air Force has awarded a contract to Florida-based company Red 6 to provide its advanced augmented reality solution, the Airborne Tactical Augmented Reality System (ATARS), for F-16 Fighting Falcon training. The system allows pilots to engage with intelligent, maneuvering virtual adversaries in real-time during live flights, offering a unique training capability.
ATARS will first be installed in two F-16 aircraft over the next 12 to 18 months, according to Red 6 CEO and former RAF pilot Daniel Robinson. Beyond the F-16, the technology has already been integrated into the MC-130, Hawk T-2, and T-38 Talon trainer aircraft, demonstrating its adaptability across multiple platforms.
The system includes a helmet-mounted optical display, cabling, and onboard computer, supporting various aircraft, helmets, and communication networks with low latency. It generates high-resolution, full-color synthetic assets, making both enemy and friendly forces appear realistic and immersive in training environments.
In addition, ATARS captures structured training data to evaluate pilot readiness. The system is being eyed as a key enabler for the USAF’s Next-Generation Collaborative Combat Aircraft program, which envisions loyal wingman drones operating alongside manned fighters. Red 6 emphasizes that ATARS provides a cost-effective and scalable alternative to live training with human aggressor pilots, while addressing the limits of simulators in replicating real cockpit stress.
