Simulator
What Is a Simulator?
A simulator (Turkish: simülatör) is a realistic artificial training device. In defense, simulators replicate the cockpit, bridge, gunnery position, or tactical environment of a real platform — allowing crews to train for combat, emergencies, and complex procedures without expending real ammunition, fuel, or risking platform and crew. SSB formally defines it in its official defense glossary.
Types of Defense Simulators
- Flight simulators: full-mission cockpit replicas for pilot training (F-16, KAAN, HÜRKUŞ)
- Weapon system simulators: gunnery trainers for tank, artillery, and sniper crews
- Naval bridge simulators: ship handling, combat management, and damage control training
- Combat training simulators: individual and collective tactical training in virtual environments
- Maintenance trainers: simulate faults and malfunctions for technician training
- Live-virtual-constructive (LVC) systems: integrate real, simulated, and computer-generated forces in one exercise
Benefits of Simulation Training
- Zero risk — crews train for dangerous scenarios safely
- Cost efficiency — no fuel, ammunition, or platform wear
- Repetition — unlimited training sorties at any time of day
- Realism — modern simulators achieve 95%+ training transfer effectiveness
- Scenario flexibility — any threat, weather, or terrain can be replicated
Simulators in Türkiye
HAVELSAN is Türkiye’s leading defense simulator developer, producing the F-16 Full Mission Simulator (FMS), HÜRKUŞ trainer simulator, naval combat management simulators, and the JTAC (Joint Terminal Attack Controller) training system. ASELSAN develops fire-control and weapon system simulators. Türkiye exports simulators to multiple countries — HAVELSAN’s systems are in service across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a defense simulator?
A realistic training device that replicates a real platform or combat environment — allowing crews to train safely, cheaply, and repeatedly.
Who makes simulators in Türkiye?
HAVELSAN is the primary developer; ASELSAN and STM also produce system-specific trainers.
Source: SSB Defense Industry 360 Glossary of Terms.
