- Boeing-funded trainer has estimated completion date of October 2016; delivery in early 2017
- Completed trainer may be used to train Chinook crews worldwide
| Halifax, NS, Canada, June 23, 2016 –Bluedrop Performance Learning Inc. (“Bluedrop”) [TSX-V: BPL] together with Boeing [NYSE: BA], announced today that it has completed a major milestone in the development of the next-generation CH-47 Chinook helicopter Rear Crew Trainer with the integration of its Canadian-built fuselage with Boeing’s cockpit training simulator system.
The fuselage is part of a forty-two foot-long mock-up of the Chinook helicopter that was manufactured by Bluedrop and installed in its Bluedrop Training and Simulation Centre facility in Halifax, Canada. In addition to this latest milestone, the team has tested, and is on track to achieve a 100% untethered, or wireless, virtual reality training experience that will maximize the flexibility and safety of the trainer. “Bluedrop has designed an important part of a high-fidelity, immersive training environment that will enhance the effectiveness and safety of service members operating the Chinook in the United States and elsewhere,” said Roger Schallom, Boeing senior manager of the Americas for International Strategic Partnerships. “Together with Boeing’s existing cockpit training device, it allows for fully interactive crew and mission-scenario training, with unparalleled realism for greater effectiveness.” The initial development phase of the trainer began one year ago following a more than US$2 million cash commitment from Boeing as well as, an intellectual property license associated with the specific technical characteristics of the Chinook platform, engineering support from the Boeing training and simulation group during the development phase, and a five-year commitment to support the on-going sales and marketing of the new product within Boeing’s global supply chain. “This major milestone would not have been reached without the full commitment of Boeing’s engineering group,” said Jean-Claude Siew, Bluedrop’s vice president of Technology and Simulation. “The combined efforts and expertise led to the design of the most innovative solution integrating Virtual Reality and real time simulation”. The integration and testing process will continue through the fall, with a full demonstration of the stand-alone trainer ready by year end. Final delivery of the trainer to Boeing is anticipated in early 2017. The Chinook is used by the U.S. Army, U.S. Army Reserve, National Guard and more than 19 counties including Canada, the United Kingdom, Netherlands, Japan, Italy, Greece, Spain, South Korea, Australia, and the United Arab Emirates. About Bluedrop Training & Simulation Bluedrop Training & Simulation Inc. designs and develops advanced training systems and state-of-the-art simulation products to safely train operators and maintainers of complex equipment. Our approach leverages innovative technology to provide cost-effective blended-media training content, from classroom instruction and computer-based training (CBT) through to high-fidelity training devices. Bluedrop Training & Simulation is a small to medium-sized enterprise (SME) providing a strong value proposition offering 100% Canadian designed and developed solutions. Follow us on Twitter: @Bluedrop_BPL. For more information about Bluedrop, visit www.bluedrop.com. This news release may contain “forward-looking information” as defined in applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact included in this release, including, without limitation, statements regarding the impact of the operational restructuring and future plans and objectives of Bluedrop, constitute forward-looking information that involve various risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking information is based on a number of factors and assumptions which have been used to develop such information but which may prove to be incorrect, including, but not limited to, assumptions in connection with the operational efficiencies associated with the integration of technological and financial systems and general economic and market conditions. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking information. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Bluedrop’s expectations include general global economic conditions. For additional information with respect to risk factors applicable to Bluedrop, reference should be made to Bluedrop’s continuous disclosure materials filed from time to time with securities regulators, including, but not limited to, Bluedrop’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Results of Operations and Financial Condition for the Year Ended September 30, 2015. The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date of this release and Bluedrop does not undertake to update publicly or revise the forward-looking information contained in this release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. About Boeing In 2016 Boeing celebrates 100 years of pioneering aviation accomplishments and launches its second century as an innovative, customer-focused aerospace technology and capabilities provider, community partner and preferred employer. Through its Defense, Space & Security unit, Boeing is a global leader in this marketplace and is the world’s largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft. Headquartered in St. Louis, Defense, Space & Security is a $30 billion business with about 50,000 employees worldwide. Follow us on Twitter: @BoeingDefense. Contacts:
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