The Air Force is currently implementing 3 D modeling and simulation technologies on a new training system for Airborne Warning and Control Systems (AWACS) Weapons Directors (WDs). When students are learning to become AWACS WDs, they must attain the knowledge and develop the judgment and decision-making abilities required to direct fighters in combat. The most critical skill they learn is how to maintain situational awareness of the 4D air environment. The WD must learn to recognize which tactics are being employed during an engagement and be able to anticipate a pilot's needs and serve them. While they are communicating, both pilot and WD need to have the same conceptual understanding of what is taking place in the air situation. Until now, AWACS WDs gained this knowledge solely through mission experience.

Aircraft track data appears on the AWACS console as 2D symbology. To ensure that AWACS WD students are forming the appropriate mental models concerning the air situation and air order of battle, a new training simulator has been developed, called the AWACS Modeling and Simulation (AMS) Training System. This paper describes how the AMS training system improves the situational awareness of the Weapons Director through a combination of instructional strategies and training technologies aimed at producing students who are skilled job performers, that is, mission-ready.