USA — CAE Defense & Security has joined Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC)’s industry team as the training systems partner for the Next-Generation Survivable Airborne Operations Center (SAOC) aircraft program, a U.S. Air Force initiative to replace the aging E-4B “Nightwatch” fleet.

• CAE will design and deliver a next-generation training system for U.S. Air Force aircrew and maintainers, incorporating high-fidelity simulation devices and virtual reality training solutions.

• The partnership builds on CAE’s decades of experience in both military and commercial aviation training, ensuring tailored, scalable solutions that meet the SAOC’s complexity and mission-critical demands.

• SNC was awarded the multi-billion-dollar SAOC contract in 2024, leading a consortium of aerospace and defense firms to deliver the E-4C, a secure airborne command center for U.S. national leadership.

• Key industry partners on the SAOC program now include Collins Aerospace, GE Aerospace, Greenpoint Technologies, Lockheed Martin Skunk Works, NIAR, Rolls-Royce, and CAE.

• CAE has already begun its Training Systems Requirement Analysis and is investing in capabilities to ensure smooth integration with the SAOC platform and alignment with USAF program milestones.

• CAE executives emphasized the importance of advancing training systems in parallel with aircraft development to accelerate delivery and readiness.

Statements

• “We are proud to collaborate on this critical program to deliver advanced training systems that enhance mission readiness,” said Matt Bromberg, President and CEO, CAE. “Drawing on decades of military and commercial expertise, we are confident that our training solution will meet the complexity and strategic importance of the SAOC program.”

• “With the strength of our industry team, we’re building a platform and a training ecosystem designed for mission success,” said Jon Piatt, EVP of SNC’s IAS business area. “Our collaboration with CAE reflects our shared commitment to delivering a tailored and innovative solution that advances readiness for the U.S. Air Force and Joint Staff mission.””

• “CAE is committed to advancing the training system in parallel with the aircraft development,” said Merrill Stoddard, Division President for CAE Defense & Security, USA. “Working with the SAOC team, we look to deliver a solution that is as advanced and adaptable as the platform itself.”

Source: CAE
Photo Credit: CAE