Stottler Henke Associates will develop simulation software for the MH-60S Sierra and MH-60R Romeo Navy helicopters, under a new contract from the US Navy.

The software allows pilots and other crew members to learn helicopter cockpit operations without expensive simulators or helicopters.

Under the $9m contract, Stottler Henke will keep the software in sync with the helicopter and add new capabilities such as forward-looking infrared and a hand control unit.

Enhancements on the software include acoustics capabilities that enables sensor operators learn details and subtleties of acoustics operations, using real acoustic image displays.

The software will be used to train crews at the Navy’s helicopter training squadrons at Naval Air Station North Island and at Naval Station Norfolk in Virginia, and the Naval Station Mayport in Florida.