An aviation industry publication honored a Patuxent River-based P-3C trainer team for its achievements during a ceremony held in Washington, D.C., on March 7.
The P-3C Aircrew Tactical Team Trainer (PACT3) integrated product team was a finalist in the Information Technology/Electronics category at Aviation Week’s 55th Annual Laureate Awards for responding to an urgent request by forward-deployed Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Fleet (MPRF) leadership.
P-3C team representatives Lt. Cmdr. Rob Huntington, from Naval Aviation Training Systems Program Office (PMA-205), and Capt. William Reuter, of the Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division, Orlando, Fla., attended the event on behalf of the group.
“This honor represents the team’s tenacious commitment and dedication to resolving challenges that confront our community,” Huntington said. “The combined efforts of many have made the idea of a forward deployed tactical trainer a reality.”
For the first time, a training device allows P-3C Orion patrol squadrons to hone their anti-submarine warfare skills while deployed to remote locations. The PACT3 originated from an operational fleet requirement and grew through the innovation and dedication of the Navy, private industry partners and fleet operators. The first two simulators were recently delivered to Bahrain and El Salvador.
“Through visionary leadership, teamwork and “out of the box” thinking, the PACT3 team raised the bar for developing and implementing state-of-the-art technologies and cutting-edge approaches,” said Capt. John Feeney, PMA-205 program manager. “Because of the team’s efforts, the MPRF will be better prepared for real-world missions.”
Huntington praised the victories, on and off the battlefield. “During a time of austere budgets and an emphasis on exploiting new technologies and emerging capability, PACT3 is a shining example of how government and industry teaming can succeed. Ultimately, the warfighter wins,” Huntington said.
Established more than 50 years ago, the Aviation Week Laureate Awards recognize the accomplishments of individuals and teams in the aerospace, aviation and defense industry. The finalists’ “achievements embody the spirit of exploration, innovation and vision that inspire others to strive for significant, broad-reaching progress in these fields,” the organization’s website said.
