SkyAlyne formally inks Bluedrop Training & Simulation in support of FAcT Program

OTTAWA, CANADA and HALIFAX, CANADA // DECEMBER 18, 2024 — Today SkyAlyne, a joint venture between CAE and KF Aerospace, and Bluedrop Training & Simulation are pleased to jointly announce the successful signing of a 25-year contract. The contract confirms Bluedrop’s support of SkyAlyne in delivering the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program.

“Building and then delivering the Future Aircrew Training program to the RCAF is a monumental undertaking, which requires top-level expertise and know-how, which is why it is so important to have Bluedrop part of Team SkyAlyne,” said Kevin Lemke, General Manager of SkyAlyne. “As SkyAlyne works on military aircrew training solutions, it’s important that our team is made up of the best companies, with strong track records of success, from all across Canada.”

The FAcT program is the RCAF’s next-generation aircrew training program, which combines three separate training programs into one. The FAcT program includes training all RCAF Pilots, Air Combat Systems Officers (ACSOs) and Airborne Electronic Sensor Operators (AES OPs) to Wings Standard. The program will become operational over the coming years.

Bluedrop is a Halifax-based business with a strong history of contributions to RCAF training, including years of experience supporting the Contracted Flying Training and Support (CFTS) program, led by KF Aerospace and multiple programs with CAE, including Fixed-Wing Search and Rescue (FWSAR) and Operational Training Systems Provider (OTSP) among others. Bluedrop’s involvement in the FAcT program is a natural extension of this collaboration with CAE and KF Aerospace to deliver industry-leading training material to the RCAF.

“As a Small/Medium Enterprise, it is a tremendous opportunity to be a part of Team SkyAlyne and the FAcT program for the coming 25-years. Our team at Bluedrop provides exceptional know-how and superior levels of support to our customers,” explained Derrick Rowe, CEO, Bluedrop Training & Simulation. “The future of aircrew training increasingly includes simulation, virtual reality, and augmented reality systems. Bluedrop is positioned to advance the program and maintain relevance for the long-term.”

Bluedrop’s contributions to SkyAlyne in this contract includes provision and configuring of software components, development and continuous improvement of courseware in Moose Jaw and Southport, and providing maintenance technicians in Moose Jaw.

The Government of Canada officially awarded the FAcT program contract to SkyAlyne in late May 2024. SkyAlyne’s solution for the FAcT program includes expertise from a number of leading Canadian companies, including Bluedrop. Formalizing agreements between SkyAlyne and its subcontractors is an important step in moving the program forward.

“Momentum is growing as the FAcT program moves forward,” added Lemke. “It’s exciting to see the entire team coming together, all working to ensure Canada has the best trained aircrew in the world.”

ABOUT

SkyAlyne: The Future of Aircrew Training
SkyAlyne is the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program provider for the Royal Canadian Air Force. SkyAlyne is a team of defence, training, simulation, and aviation industry experts assembled from across Canada, working to prepare the next generation of RCAF pilots and aircrew. SkyAlyne was formed in 2018 as a partnership between CAE and KF Aerospace, two Canadian aviation, training, and defence leaders. The partnership was built to jointly answer the call for the Government of Canada’s FAcT program. In 2023 SkyAlyne was named the preferred bidder, and in 2024, was officially contracted to partner with the RCAF to deliver the FAcT program.

Learn more: SkyAlyne.ca

Bluedrop Training & Simulation
Bluedrop provides products and services for advanced training solutions, including highly interactive courseware, technical publications, state-of-the-art virtual, augmented and mixed reality training simulation products and in-service-support. Bluedrop is a partner of choice by bringing capabilities in R&D and innovative solution development.

Smarter simulations: Aerospace and defence e-learning company adopts AI

Virtual reality training programs will benefit from cutting-edge technology improvements

July 17, 2024 · Halifax, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

Canada is a country of innovators, whose curiosity, creativity, and collaborative spirit lead to technologies that improve the way we work, enhance our way of life, and drive our economy forward. The global race is on to harness the capabilities of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Government of Canada is investing to help Atlantic Canadian innovators stay at the forefront of their industries by leveraging AI’s potential.

Virtual reality meets artificial intelligence

Today, the Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Member of Parliament for Halifax West, announced a contribution of $448,950 to Bluedrop Training & Simulation Inc. (Bluedrop) for the integration of generative AI into its training programs to enhance the learning experience through improved course instruction, content creation and tests. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA.

This repayable investment will help the company leverage AI to quickly adapt its simulations to individual needs based on real-time feedback, making the trainee and instructor experience more personalized and effective. These improvements will help Bluedrop enhance mission training while remaining competitive and efficient, reaching new markets and maintaining data security.

Today’s announcement further demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to supporting economic growth through high-tech innovation.

Quotes

“AI is a real game-changer for Atlantic businesses—it can help people get more work done, faster and is going to bring great jobs into our communities. Companies like Bluedrop are leading the charge in AI innovation to make sure that our region stays ahead.”

• The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA

 “From aerospace to defence, Atlantic Canada has established itself as a hub of innovation. Companies like Bluedrop are pushing us forward by offering advanced training and simulation solutions to first responders, defence forces, energy producers, and more. By embracing the potential of AI, they’re going to build upon the momentum we’re seeing in Nova Scotia and help create good jobs and a stronger economy.”

• The Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Member of Parliament for Halifax West

“ACOA funding is helping Bluedrop transform the training paradigm and improve the training experience by introducing AI-driven instructors and instructions. It will also help accelerate developments by improving the tools supported by AI, while adding non-symmetrical training methods to adapt to specific trainee needs.”

• Jean-Claude Siew, Executive Vice President, Technology and Simulation at Bluedrop Training & Simulation Inc.

Quick facts

• Bluedrop Training & Simulation Inc. was formed in 2013 and has designed and developed various virtual reality simulators and training programs to help trainees practice challenging flight, military, and sea scenarios.
• Bluedrop works with the Canadian Air Force, Navy and Army, as well as search and rescue agencies, fire departments, forest fire services, windfarms and the oil and gas offshore sector.
• The company develops its product and services for both domestic and export aerospace and defense contracts. The simulators provide substantial cost savings over live training.
• The funding announced today is provided through the ACOA’s Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program.

Contacts

Connor Burton
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Connor.Burton@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Lauren Sinclair
Director of Communications
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Lauren.Sinclair@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
782-641-6365

Angela Archibald
Proposal and Marketing Manager
Bluedrop Training & Simulation Inc.
Angelaarchibald@bluedrop.com
902-229-4045

Bluedrop Training & Simulation Featured on Maritime Made

Bluedrop and BNH Expert Software will offer a combined BNH Training Management System and Bluedrop Learninglogics® suite

SkyAlyne awarded contract for Canada’s Future Aircrew Training Program Government of Canada completes procurement process

The Government of Canada has awarded a landmark contract for the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) Program to SkyAlyne. This transformative initiative, set to last 25 years with a value of $11.2 billion, reimagines training for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), consolidating three aircrew training operations under SkyAlyne and Canada’s joint management.

SkyAlyne, a partnership between Canadian aerospace leaders CAE and KF Aerospace, was chosen to be the FAcT contractor after a rigorous selection process. CAE and KF Aerospace – the current incumbents of legacy RCAF pilot training programs in Canada – joined to form SkyAlyne to provide a made-in-Canada solution for the FAcT Program.

This program is a significant step forward to prepare Canadian Military Pilots, Air Combat Systems Officers, and Airborne Electronic Sensor Operators for tomorrow’s challenges. Under the FAcT Program, SkyAlyne – in collaboration with the RCAF – will design, develop, and deliver a comprehensive training and support system, including live flying, simulation, ground school training, and a suite of in-service support functions. Fittingly coinciding with the RCAF’s 100th anniversary, the FAcT Program is the next symbol of Canada’s proud history of excellence in military aircrew training.

“It is a privilege to be entrusted by Canada to lead the FAcT Program, a role that speaks volumes about our team’s relentless effort and expertise,” France Hébert, President of SkyAlyne and Vice President of Defense & Security at CAE Canada. “We’re grateful to have the opportunity to deliver top-tier training solutions that align with the dynamic needs of the Canadian Armed Forces. This is a milestone moment for us and all the companies on the SkyAlyne Team, highlighting our unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation.”

Tracy Medve, Chair of the SkyAlyne Board and President & CEO of KF Aerospace, adds: “The vision for FAcT represents a unified effort from Canada’s finest minds and organizations. We’re geared up to bring this vision to life with our truly Canadian expertise, working closely with Canada and the RCAF to usher in a new era of aircrew training. Our focus is beyond meeting today’s standards but shaping the future of aircrew readiness, creating new jobs and opportunities in communities across Canada.”

Centrally managed from Ottawa, the FAcT Program will revamp and expand upon training services currently provided by KF Aerospace and CAE, with operations set to continue at 15 Wing Moose Jaw, Southport (Portage la Prairie) and 17 Wing Winnipeg. The program includes the establishment of a complete training enterprise at all three operating locations, helping ensure the RCAF maintains the highest standards of excellence and innovation.

This contract also aligns with Canada’s Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy and Value Proposition, requiring investments in Canada equal to the contract value. SkyAlyne is committed to investing in Canadian industry and the inclusion of an extensive Indigenous Participation Plan.

“With a shared focus on innovation and excellence, we’re poised to transform aircrew training not just for Canada, but globally,” said Kevin Lemke, General Manager, SkyAlyne. “This program is our pledge to help advance Canada’s military readiness to unprecedented levels.”

Bluedrop USA announces the official opening of its headquarters in Orlando, Florida

Orlando, Florida, April 11, 2023 – Bluedrop USA, a training and simulation company in the defense market, is today celebrating the inauguration of its headquarters in Orlando, Florida. The company provides products and services for advanced training solutions, including highly interactive courseware; state-of-the-art virtual, augmented, and mixed reality training; technical publications; learning content and learning management systems; simulation products; and in-service support.

This new facility is home to our U.S. employees, including the executive team, engineers, courseware developers, learning solution experts and support staff.

Bluedrop USA is a subsidiary of Bluedrop Training & Simulation Inc., an established Canadian defense and security training company. Bluedrop USA aims to deliver training solutions to the U.S. Department of Defense and Allied nations, defense and security customers, and civil organizations.

“We are excited about the prospect of investing in the local economy by offering highly skilled job opportunities and expanding Bluedrop operations into the U.S. market,” said Dr. Brett Ulander, President at Bluedrop USA. “As a small business with established partnerships, we are fully capable of delivering innovative training solutions to defense and security customers by continuously investing in R&D.”

The facility also serves as Bluedrop Simulation As A Service (SimAAS) Schoolhouse to train helicopter crews and hoist operators in a safe, operationally relevant environment that will maximize crewmember proficiency. The facility is fully equipped for classroom, instructor training and Hoist simulation training in a mixed-reality environment. The simulator can be networked to a cockpit simulator to perfect communication and mission-critical skills for pilots and rear crew operators. The Schoolhouse can train up to 200 rear crew trainees annually, with growth capability for future expansion.

Ulander said, “This new state-of-the-art facility will allow us to grow our Simulation As A Service (SimAAS) business to help train helicopter hoist operators. The learners can perfect communication skills and crew coordination and develop experience with cable management for rear crew operators more efficiently and effectively than in a live aircraft.”

Transformation of UKMFTS Learning Content Management System

Ascent Flight Training is embarking on a major transformation programme which will support the delivery of courseware and student learning to the UK Military Flying Training System (UKMFTS). The current Learning Content Management System (LMCS) is facing obsolescence in December 2021, and a contract has been signed with Bluedrop Training & Simulation Inc. to replace this with their Learninglogics® suite (LMCS and LMS).

Bluedrop is proud to be working with Seaspan and supporting Canada’s marine industry from coast to coast

JOHN’S, Newfoundland and Labrador — BPLI Holdings and its subsidiary Bluedrop Training & Simulation (“Bluedrop”) are pleased to announce that it has signed a contract with Seaspan Shipyards (Seaspan). Bluedrop will be the Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) Publications and Training Sub-contractor for the build phase of the Joint Support Ships (JSS) being constructed for the Royal Canadian Navy under Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy.

Lockheed Martin Recognizes Outstanding Performance of Bluedrop Training & Simulation Inc.

Halifax, NS, Canada, Oct 5th, 2021 — Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) Rotary and Mission Systems recognized 29 suppliers, including Bluedrop Training & Simulation Inc (“Bluedrop”) for their exemplary contributions to delivering advanced products and services in 2020. Bluedrop received an award for its exemplary work to help Lockheed Martin deliver crucial capabilities, such as providing highly skilled technician and aircrew instructors, simulator operators and training program support personnel for the 406 Operational and Training Squadron located at 12 Wing Shearwater in Nova Scotia.

Bluedrop Opens Simulation Facility In Halifax

This facility provides us the capability to showcase and demonstrate our technology and with the capability to build up to 4 simulators in parallel.

This facility will help Bluedrop accelerate its growth and bring more simulation capabilities to the Halifax region and increase our export capabilities for simulation products internationally