'Rapid Strike' Called An 'Educational And Motivational' Simulator

By Maria Morrison

Have you ever wanted to know what it is like to fly a F-22 Raptor? Jump out of a C-17? With the U.S. Air Force's new simulator, Rapid Strike, anyone can get a taste of what it's like to be part of the Air Force. This six-minute ride takes you through the different areas of expertise that come together to complete a mission.

The simulator starts out with a steep takeoff in a F-22 Raptor. Flying formation, you scout out an Undisclosed Location, looking for the enemy base. Once found, rough coordinates are taken and the planes go back to land. However, you, as the pilot, becomes a parachuter in a C-130.You jump out, along with another jumper and two large wooden boxes. The parachute is opened as late as possible for the efficiency of the mission. Once on the ground, you open up the boxes to find motorcycles. While driving around, you find the enemy control center. After clarifying the coordinates of the base, the screen shoots over to mission control, who send out a missile from a C-141 to the aforementioned location.

In just six minutes, up to 16 people can experience a bit of what it's like to be in the U.S Air Force. These four divisions of the Air Force work cohesively to get the job done and eliminate the target.

The ride is free, and available to everyone. You must be 13 or older to ride alone. The simulator does everything but go upside down, so watch out if you are prone to motion sickness. Everyone who has participated seems to agree; the simulator is a "motivational and educational experience for everyone."

FMI: www.af.mil