IAF Moves Mirage-2000 Training Into the Virtual Domain With Indigenous PTT

The Indian Air Force has taken another step towards expanding indigenous simulation-based training with the procurement of a virtual reality-based Part-Task Trainer for its Mirage-2000 fleet. The system, developed by New Delhi-based Threye Interactive Pvt Ltd, has progressed from an iDEX innovation challenge and development programme to Indian Air Force trials and now procurement.

The trainer was developed under the Ministry of Defence’s Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) framework in response to the Defence India Start-up Challenge-5 requirement for a Part-Task Trainer for the upgraded Mirage-2000 aircraft. The original challenge called for an accurate representation of key cockpit elements, including the aircraft’s stick and throttle, multifunction displays, Head-Up Display, Function Selector and Display Unit, as well as other controls, switches and functions.

Threye’s solution combines virtual reality, flight simulation and real-time networking technologies. According to the company, its Immersive Flight Training Device is designed as a high-fidelity Part-Task Trainer that provides a simulated environment for practising aircraft systems, combat manoeuvres and other operational tasks. The system can be configured for both individual and group training, with VR and non-VR options.

Unlike a full-flight simulator, a Part-Task Trainer concentrates on particular aircraft functions and pilot-aircraft interactions. This allows selected procedures and modes to be practised repeatedly in a controlled environment before pilots carry out corresponding activities on an operational aircraft. The iDEX requirement specifically envisaged the trainer supporting basic flying and simulation of the upgraded Mirage-2000’s existing modes and functions.

The development also demonstrates how the iDEX programme is being used to connect Indian defence start-ups with specific operational requirements of the armed forces. The Department of Defence Production lists the Mirage-2000 Part-Task Trainer among the DISC-5 challenges assigned to the Indian Air Force.

For the IAF, the introduction of an indigenous trainer provides an additional tool for simulator-based preparation of aircrew. Repeated practice of selected procedures in a simulated setting can complement live flying and help reduce the need to use operational fighters for every training activity.

Threye has also developed a separate AR/VR-based technical training system for Mirage-2000 ground personnel. The company says this system combines physical replicas, live systems and interactive digital modules to support maintenance training, system checks and fault-diagnosis exercises.

The procurement of the Mirage-2000 Part-Task Trainer marks the latest stage in the development of an indigenous simulation capability that began with an IAF requirement under iDEX. It also adds to the growing use of immersive technologies in India’s military aviation training ecosystem, where simulation can complement conventional aircraft-based training while providing a repeatable environment for practising specific procedures and aircraft functions.