Simtek, Inc. F/A-18 Simulated Avionics for High-Fidelity Training: Built for Real Training
- Feb 4
- 2 min read
High-fidelity where it matters most
The F/A-18 Hornet is an unforgiving environment—fast-paced mission sets, dense cockpit workflows, and training that demands realism. When your simulator is used to build habits that carry into live flight, the “feel” of the cockpit isn’t cosmetic—it’s operational.
At Simtek, Inc., we design and manu
facture simulated avionics that help customers deliver credible, repeatable training for F/A-18 aircrews and maintainers. Our goal is simple: create rugged, high-fidelity cockpit hardware that supports serious training outcomes and holds up over the long haul.
What “Simulated Avionics” means in an F/A-18 context
Simulated avionics isn’t just a faceplate with lights. In a modern training device, avionics hardware has to support:
Realistic tactile interaction: switches, knobs, pushbuttons, detents, and guards that behave like the real thing
Readable, consistent symbology: displays and indicators that look right at the angles crews actually use
Reliable I/O performance: clean, stable inputs and outputs—especially in high-event training
Maintainability: fast swap capability and serviceable designs that reduce downtime
Configuration control: repeatable builds across multiple devices, locations, and customers
Simtek F/A-18 Simulated Avionics for High-Fidelity Training
That’s the difference between a cockpit that “looks like” an F/A-18 and one that truly supports performance-based training.
Why primes and training organizations choose Simtek
1) Durability that reduces total cost of ownership
Training devices get used. A lot. High utilization quickly exposes shortcuts—loose hardware, inconsistent actuation, failing indicators, and drifting calibration. Simtek, Inc. builds simulated avionics to withstand years of daily operation, helping reduce lifecycle costs by lowering failures, minimizing rework, and simplifying sustainment.
2) Integration-friendly designs
Every simulator ecosystem is different—image generators, host computers, interface standards, and software stacks vary by program. We build with integration in mind, supporting clean electrical interfaces and practical mechanical packaging to help integrators move faster.
3) Consistency across shipsets and sites
When a program scales from one trainer to many, consistency becomes critical. Repeatable builds and controlled configurations help keep training standardized across devices and locations—especially when multiple organizations share a training pipeline.
Built to match your training needs
Every F/A-18 training program has its own priorities—procedural training, mission rehearsal, maintenance training, or blended solutions.
Simtek, Inc. supports a range of simulated avionics needs, including:
Cockpit panels and control assemblies
Instrument and display solutions
Ruggedized simulated indicators
Program-specific customization and updates
Sustainment support for deployed/fielded trainers
If your team is balancing fidelity, schedule, and long-term supportability, we’ll help define a practical approach that aligns with your device concept and budget.
The Simtek difference: fidelity you can trust
A trainer’s credibility is earned in the details: the feel of the controls, the reliability of the hardware, and the confidence that the device will be ready when students show up.
Simtek, Inc. exists to deliver that credibility—through robust design, disciplined manufacturing, and a relentless focus on quality.
When you’re building training that matters, choose simulated avionics built to perform like the mission depends on it—because sometimes, it does.
Call to action
If you’re developing or upgrading a F/A-18 Hornet training device and need high-fidelity simulated avionics, Simtek, Inc. would love to support your program.
Reach out to discuss scope, configuration, and how we can help you deliver durable, integration-ready cockpit hardware on time and on budget.
