‘Top Gun’ Dundee cadets using VR to earn their wings with help from Abertay University

Abertay partners with local air cadets to launch Virtual Reality (VR)flight training programme

The next generation of aviators took to the skies from Abertay University’s virtual production studio - thanks to a collaboration with local Air Cadets that integrated Virtual Reality (VR) into their training programme.

The 1232 (City of Dundee) Squadron Air Training Corps (ATC) unveiled their state-of-the-art new flight simulators from the University’s Virtual Production Research Environment (ViPRE) suite.

Two cockpits were set-up on campus, with one linked up to the studio’s huge LED screen and another to a virtual reality (VR) headset; allowing the youngsters to use immersive technology to train for the skies like never before.

Flight simulators are a vital learning tool for air cadets, introducing them to the principles of aircraft, flight, airfields and procedures. 

The simulators, which were sourced and built by Abertay staff, were on campus for one night only and have since been moved to their permanent home at the squadron’s Dundee HQ on Gardyne Place.  

The installation of the new flight simulators, complete with VR headsets, at the squadron’s base will position them at the cutting edge when it comes to training cadets by implementing VR into their training programmes.

By fully immersing themselves in the flying experience, youngsters will be able to prepare for real-world flights with more accuracy and realism than ever before.

It is also hoped that the technology will give the squadron an edge when it comes to recruiting new cadets.

It is the first collaboration in a new partnership between the Squadron and Abertay University.

Matt Bett, a lecturer in Virtual Production at Abertay, said:

It is fantastic to see Abertay University’s partnership with the 1232 (City of Dundee) Squadron bearing fruit. Working with the instructors to source, build and install the flight simulators for testing at Abertay was an exciting and unique opportunity for our team. It allowed us to display the versatile capabilities of the cutting-edge ViPRE studio to the wider community here in Dundee; and to show how immersive technologies such as VR can be used as a fantastic learning tool to support a STEM-focused youth group. We are delighted to have played a role in supporting the Air Cadets and bringing these cutting-edge flight simulators (via Abertay) to their new home at the Squadron’s HQ. I'm hopeful that this will spur on the next generation of potential Royal Air Force aviators to the career path they want by having the right tools at their disposal at this crucial phase in their development and learning.

Flt Lt Liam Fowley of the 1232 (City of Dundee) Squadron ATC said:

As a charitable organisation, 1232 (City of Dundee) Squadron of the RAF Air Cadets is committed to inspiring and empowering young people through STEM, air, space, and cyber. We believe that strong industry partnerships are essential to achieving our mission. By collaborating with leading institutions like Abertay University, we can expose our cadets to cutting-edge technologies and real-world applications. The integration of virtual reality into our training programs, using the excellent flight simulator sourced and built by Abertay University, has revolutionised the way we prepare our cadets for the challenges of the future. By immersing them in realistic scenarios, we can develop their critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills. We look forward to continuing our strong relationship with Abertay University and exploring future opportunities for collaboration. Together, we can inspire the next generation of innovators and leaders. 1232 (City of Dundee) Squadron ATC assemble Tuesday and Thursday nights and are always on the hunt for new Cadets and Adult Volunteers to join us!