A Systems Engineering Method for the Design and Selection of a Reconnaissance-Attack-Fighter Pilot Training System. Volume 1. Executive Summary.

This thesis demonstrates design of an optimal Reconnaissance-Attack-Fighter pilot training system using a systems engineering approach. This effort supports the U.S. Air Force's planned implementation of a dual-track Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training where students destined for reconnaissance, attack, and fighter aircraft will be trained on a separate track from those students bound for tanker, transport, and bomber aircraft. Training needs through the year 2010 are analyzed and formulated into training objectives. Three alternative representative training systems, each consisting of a training aircraft and flight simulator, are developed to meet these objectives. The first alternative is the T-38 system which is currently used in UPT. The second alternative is a modified version of the T-45 system that the Navy has procurred to train its strike students. The last alternative is the T-XX system that we designed functionally to address the objectives. A method for rating the design's performance and determining their cost is developed that enables a decision maker to choose a particular training system by trading off performance against cost. The method is then used to evaluate the candidate training systems. (Theses)