Develop a new simulation training system to revolutionize how B-52 pilots train to perform mid-air refueling
8 months from prototype contract to flyoff
Prototype award via STRIKEWERX Challenge
The U.S. Air Force’s innovation hub sought a solution from industry, academia, or others to improve how B-52 pilots learn to refuel in midair.
The B-52 is an ancient aircraft. Training Airmen in mid-air refueling primarily required the use of the actual aircraft. Due to the stress on the aircraft, as well as high costs, airspace coordination, fuel use and safety risks, these training sessions were often limited in frequency and scope. This left Airmen with limited opportunity to gain hands-on training experience for these complicated, high-risk maneuvers.
Recognizing the need to modernize and offer improved training for the incoming classes of digital natives, the U.S. Air Force sought to develop a simulation-based training program that would completely reimagine how B-52 pilots train to perform air-to-air refueling.
To achieve this, they issued a call to industry and academic teams for an immersive simulator solution that could recreate real-world situations B-52 Airmen face during day-to-day refueling operations and functions.
The USAF had some specific requirements for the training solution, including physical yoke, trim and throttle with gaming and modeling software, artificial intelligence, as well as a range of immersive technologies, e.g. sensors, haptics, assessment tools, and brain-machine interface. Additionally, because pilots determine the correct position to receive the tanker’s fuel by lining it up in the overhead windows, the simulator cockpit had to be the exact dimensions of the real-world aircraft.
Following a successful bid to participate, XRT was selected to develop a fully-immersive mixed reality (MR) simulator replicating the B-52 aircraft’s distinct cockpit and functionality.
XRT worked closely with Air Force subject matter experts through monthly technical reviews, ensuring the simulator evolved in-step with operational needs. This iterative collaboration allowed pilots and leadership to provide continuous feedback, shaping a solution that met real-world training
From a pool of more than 100 vendors, XRT advanced as one of only two finalists invited to the STRIKEWERX FlyOff. Over the course of the event, 24 current B-52 pilots and Air Force leaders stepped into the simulator in rotating roles of instructor and pilot, putting each system through its paces. Head-to-head against the competition, XRT’s mixed reality prototype stood out – earning recognition for its striking realism and ability to deliver true training immersion.
Built over eight months, XRT’s MR simulator earned distinction as the “most realistic to fly,” with smooth and lifelike pitch and roll. The solution combined cutting-edge XR hardware, AI instruction, biometric feedback, and force-feedback flight controls to help pilots build psychomotor skills for the complex midair refueling maneuver.
Using aerodynamic modeling and a Unity-based application with OpenXR and high-resolution XR headsets, the simulator delivered immersive, adaptive training with dynamic weather, lighting, and tanker behavior. An AI virtual instructor responded to pilot inputs and stress signals in real time, eliminating the need for constant human oversight.
Military evaluators, such as Dr. Donna Senft, AFGSC Chief Scientist, commended the solution for surpassing other immersive simulators in terms of flight realism and training efficiency, noting its potential to reduce maintenance costs, eliminate training delays, and enhance pilot proficiency and readiness.
Tell us a little about your project/program in the form. We’ll follow up to get the ball rolling.
