Gaming Tech Helps Apache Maintainers Reduce Training Time

Lockheed Martin’s RELY3D tool is based on employee feedback and drastically reduces maintenance training

(Image courtesy: Lockheed Martin Corporation)

Lockheed Martin Corporation  has released the latest version of RELY3D , its advanced visualization and training tool for sensor system maintainers working on the Boeing  AH-64 Apache  attack helicopter. The tool originated from an employee idea of incorporating popular commercial video game technology to create advanced visualization modules for maintainers. In the end, maintainer training time was reduced by upwards of 60 percent.

The tool combines four interactive modules – a parts explorer, removal and installation procedure database, wiring diagram, and built-In-test matrix generator – into one platform. It also eliminates language barriers by giving maintainers a visual environment for Apache Modernized Target Acquisition Designation Sight and Pilotage Night Vision Sensor (M-TADS/PNVS) maintenance-related downloads and updates.

Maintainers access the platform by bringing up high-fidelity, technically accurate 3D models of both the Apache M-TADS/PNVS and LONGBOW Fire Control Radar (FCR) on maintainers’ mobile tablets or laptops.

(Image courtesy: Lockheed Martin Corporation)

William Kucinski  is content editor at SAE International, Aerospace Products Group in Warrendale, Pa. Previously, he worked as a writer at the NASA Safety Center in Cleveland, Ohio and was responsible for writing the agency’s System Failure Case Studies. His interests include literally anything that has to do with space, past and present military aircraft, and propulsion technology.

Contact him regarding any article or collaboration ideas by e-mail at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..