New VR Training for MH-139A Grey Wolf at Maxwell Air Force Base
Last month, the 908th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron collaborated with Mass Virtual to kick off the initial scanning process for creating extended reality training aids for the MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopter at Maxwell Air Force Base in Alabama.
Mass Virtual specializes in providing virtual reality training aids through a tech-driven platform that integrates various types of reality, including augmented and mixed reality, to enhance training environments.
To capture detailed images of the Grey Wolf components, the Mass Virtual team utilized advanced technologies like Lidar scanners, which use pulsed lasers to measure depth, as well as 3D modeling techniques that involve taking overlapping photos and using photogrammetry for clear visualization.
During their visit, the team documented 19 out of 44 critical maintenance procedures—from changing rear tires to installing tow bars and taxiing the aircraft. They recorded sounds, photos, videos, and 3D footage to ensure a comprehensive representation of each task.
Master Sergeant Jason Gessler, an aircraft maintenance specialist with the 908th AMXS, served as the project lead. He provided narration for each procedure, which allowed for both audio and video documentation of the tasks.
Gessler reflected on the importance of precision, stating, “Every time you touch this aircraft, if you don’t do it right, other people’s lives are at stake.” He emphasized the significance of having thorough training materials, particularly for reservists who may not work on the aircraft daily.
While training a large number of airmen poses challenges, VR training facilitates hands-on learning without compromising actual flight time for the aircraft.
Master Sergeant Michael Coleman, an avionics engineer with the 908th AMXS, highlighted how the new technology will benefit maintainers by allowing them to familiarize themselves with the aircraft in a realistic setting. “VR trainers can be extremely helpful in training future maintainers,” Coleman said.
Caraline Aldis, the lead 3D art generalist at Mass Virtual, noted that while it typically takes about six months to develop training aids for aircraft they have prior experience with, the new Grey Wolves require additional data gathering, which lengthens the process. “The planes have done so much, so planes are very easy,” Aldis remarked.
The integrated technology platform is part of the Aviation Education and Training Command program, and Maxwell Air Force Base will soon be added to the 135 other Department of Defense installations utilizing this technology. The Grey Wolf will be the 32nd Air Force aircraft to be incorporated into the virtual hangar.
