Embedded Training (ET) systems for tactical aircraft have shown promise over the years as effective training media. However, these systems have gained only limited acceptance because of concerns about impacts on aircraft availability, performance, safety, and affordability. Recent technological advances, however, show that ET can overcome these concerns and become a key component of the total training system for the next generation of tactical aircraft, such as those resulting from the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program.

In the next century, tactical aircraft must address a new training requirement. Not only will the pilot be trained to operate his aircraft and all its weapon systems, he will have to learn to operate in a more fully integrated joint battlespace. This will require familiarity with a myriad of support systems, joint forces and integrated command and control. The total training system of the future must also provide for delivery of training and mission rehearsal wherever the aircraft and pilot are deployed. ET is a viable training media to meet all these needs. In-flight, it can enhance the training fidelity of existing range facilities to support more complex training scenarios. It can also provide a "portable range" for team training capability anywhere/anytime. On the ground, ET can support continuation training wherever the pilot and aircraft are deployed. ET can link the aircraft with the emerging global training network system. New aircraft avionics systems can support these features with minimal impact on aircraft performance and availability.