Joint Simulation Environment

The Joint Simulation Environment (JSE) program, as outlined in budget line item JSE000, is a new Air Force initiative for FY 2026 under Aircraft Procurement, specifically supporting Combat Aircraft and Tactical Forces. The primary objective of JSE is to procure advanced simulation hardware and software referred to as Platform-in-a-Box (PIAB) and battlestation training equipment for integration into a high-fidelity digital battlespace. This environment is designed to enhance operational test and training capabilities at Joint Integrated Test & Training Centers (JITTCs), such as Nellis Air Force Base and Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson.

JSE's goals include the acquisition and deployment of PIABs and battlestations for multiple platforms, notably the F-35, F-15EX, and Virtual Air Threat Systems (VATS). These systems will support both large force exercises and local training events, allowing for the replication and expansion of current digital test and training range capabilities. By enabling multiple, dissimilar platforms to operate in a common synthetic environment, JSE aims to overcome traditional constraints related to airspace, threat density, and outside surveillance, while safeguarding sensitive tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs).

Procurement of F-35 Platform-in-a-Box Common Cockpit units will provide advanced simulator training and operational test activities. The objective is to deliver high-fidelity simulation that mirrors real-world operational environments, thereby improving the throughput and effectiveness of the Formal Training Unit (FTU) and supporting the Weapons Instructor Course (WIC) syllabus through Weapon School Integration (WSINT).

The Virtual Air Threat Systems/Red Air component involves the purchase of systems designed to simulate adversary air threats within the JSE, providing realistic opposition for training and test events. The goal is to enhance joint warfighter readiness by enabling combat units to train against peer and near-peer threats in a controlled, repeatable, and secure synthetic environment.

For the F-15EX Platform-in-a-Box, procurement efforts leverage existing contracts and sole-source arrangements with Boeing to ensure platform-specific fidelity and integration with the JSE. The F-15EX PIABs will support both operational test and advanced tactics training, contributing to the objective of improving high-end advanced tactics, training, and testing (HEAT3) capabilities.

In addition to hardware procurement, JSE funding supports the acquisition of necessary software, licenses, peripheral equipment, visual display systems, and initial spares. The program also addresses emerging requirements such as Diminishing Manufacturing Sources (DMS) and obsolescence resolution to ensure sustained operational capability. Integration of these systems into the JSE battlespace is intended to facilitate joint and coalition training, operational test, and evaluation in a secure and scalable manner.

The JSE program aligns with Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) and Chief of Staff of the Air Force (CSAF) initiatives to improve operational training and readiness against advanced threats. The Air Force seeks to modernize its test and training infrastructure, enhance warfighter preparedness, and support ongoing financial audit requirements as mandated by Title 10 U.S.C. Chapter 9A, Sec 240-D.