F-35 pilots hone tactics with USN collaborative combat aircraft in NAWCAD’s Joint Simulation Environment

The US Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) has achieved a milestone in advancing F-35 Lightning II aircraft integration with the US Navy’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) during a recent tactical demonstration in its Joint Simulation Environment (JSE), US Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) announced on 5 January 2026.

The event demonstrated how advanced modelling and simulation can develop tactics and strategies for fifth-generation aircraft like the F-35 operating with uncrewed combat systems.

During the demonstration, F-35 pilots used touch-screen tablets to control multiple CCAs during simulated missions. Using advanced operational communication systems and precision-guided missiles, pilots engaged complex threats in the JSE’s highly realistic virtual environment, NAVAIR reported.

The JSE is the US Department of War’s (DoW’s) state-of-the-art digital test and training range that replicates real-world combat scenarios in a virtual environment. Built by NAWCAD engineers, the JSE combines cockpit simulators, advanced software and domed visual displays to allow pilots to train and test systems in a safe, controlled setting. The JSE enables pilots to fly more sorties in one week than they can on open-air ranges in a year, sharpening their skills and improving readiness.

The US Navy’s CCAs are multi-role uncrewed combat vehicles that will operate with crewed fighters enhancing the mission effectiveness of crewed platforms in highly contested environments. They are central to the DoW’s future strategy, enabling pilots to focus on high-level decision-making while expanding operational capabilities. The JSE is playing a key role in developing tactics and operational concepts for integrating these systems with fifth-generation platforms like the F-35.

NAWCAD’S JSE continues to integrate additional platforms and enhance the fidelity of its simulated environment with planned additions of the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye airborne early warning and control aircraft, F/A-18E/F Super Hornet fighter and EA-18G Growler electronic attack aircraft to enable integrated test and training in fiscal year 2026.

The JSE is currently expanding with additional US Navy and US Air Force facilities under development at Naval Air Station Fallon, Nellis Air Force Base and Edwards Air Force Base to train tactical pilots.

“Modern warfare is demanding more from our aviators,” NAWCAD Commander Rear Admiral Todd Evans was quoted as saying in a NAVAIR press release. “This milestone shows the Joint Simulation Environment’s impact on equipping them with the advanced tactics they need to win future battles.”