Quantum3D and Norxe Unite to Redefine Visual Simulation Standards

On November 26, 2025, a significant advancement in the field of professional visual simulation was announced from Silicon Valley, California, and Fredrikstad, Norway. Quantum3D, a recognized leader in real-time visual simulation technologies, has formally partnered with Norxe AS, a premier manufacturer of high-performance simulation projectors. This collaboration marks the release of a new integrated capability designed to elevate the realism and performance of training systems used in defense, aerospace, and commercial Commercial-Aircraft sectors.

The core of this announcement centers on the integration of Quantum3D’s MANTIS® Image Generator software with Norxe’s P55 and P60 projectors. By establishing full native support for these specific hardware systems, the partnership addresses long-standing technical challenges regarding resolution and motion clarity. The integration enables an 8K resolution output at a refresh rate of 240Hz, achieved through Norxe’s proprietary 4-way n-shift technology. This development represents a shift in how high-fidelity visual data is processed and displayed, moving beyond the limitations of traditional 60Hz systems.

For the simulation industry, this collaboration is not merely about higher pixel counts; it is about the practical application of visual fidelity in critical training environments. The ability to drive a single projector using four 4K channels at 60Hz allows for a seamless visual experience that eliminates common artifacts such as motion blur and double-imaging. As training requirements for pilots and operators become increasingly rigorous, the demand for visual systems that can match the speed and complexity of real-world scenarios has grown, making this integration a timely development for the market.

Technical Breakdown: Achieving 8K at 240Hz

The technical architecture behind this integration relies on a sophisticated method of pixel shifting known as “4-way n-shift.” In standard projection, resolution is often limited by the physical chip size, where native 8K hardware can be prohibitively large and expensive. The solution implemented by Norxe and supported by Quantum3D utilizes a native 4K chip but physically vibrates a glass element in the lens path four times per video frame. Because this process occurs 240 times per second, the human eye blends these offset pixels into a single, ultra-sharp 8K image. This allows the system to achieve “eye-limiting resolution,” where the detail is so fine that individual pixels are indiscernible to the trainee.

A critical component of this system is how it handles the high refresh rate of 240Hz. Standard gaming or commercial displays typically operate at 60Hz, which is insufficient for fast-moving simulation scenarios such as fighter jet dogfighting or low-altitude Helicopters maneuvers. At lower refresh rates, rapid motion can result in “smearing” or blurring of the image, which can cause motion sickness in simulators and fail to provide accurate visual cues. By synchronizing the MANTIS software with the projector’s high-speed output, the system ensures that fast-moving targets, such as Drones or missiles, remain distinct and visible, rather than disappearing into a blur.

To manage the data flow required for this level of performance, MANTIS offers distinct processing modes tailored to specific training needs. The “Interpolation” mode prioritizes maximum accuracy by calculating intermediate frames, ensuring extremely smooth motion, though this can introduce a slight latency. Conversely, the “Extrapolation” mode is designed for reduced latency, predicting future frame positions based on speed and direction, which is vital for split-second reaction training. A “Hybrid” mode is also available, balancing both approaches to optimize performance when the simulation host operates at a traditional 60Hz.

“Together, Quantum3D technology and Norxe technology are pushing the boundaries of visual simulation systems, setting a new benchmark for fidelity and performance.”

Enhancing Night Vision and Operational Flexibility

Beyond resolution and speed, the Partnerships addresses a specific requirement for military training: Night Vision Goggle (NVG) stimulation. Historically, simulating night environments involved simply darkening the screen, which fails to accurately represent what a pilot sees through actual NVGs. The Norxe P55 and P60 projectors integrated with MANTIS now support a dedicated Infrared (IR) channel. This technology projects invisible IR light alongside visible light, allowing pilots wearing NVGs to perceive a realistic IR scene, complete with thermal signatures of terrain and vehicles, while the naked eye perceives a dark environment.

This capability is further enhanced by the system’s dynamic switching potential. Users can seamlessly transition between 120Hz NVG operation and 240Hz daylight modes. This flexibility allows for continuous training sessions that span different times of day and environmental conditions without the need to stop the simulation or reconfigure hardware. For complex mission rehearsals that involve transitioning from day to night operations, this seamless integration ensures that the immersion remains unbroken.

The implications of this technology extend across various sectors, including defense, Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), Urban Air Mobility (UAM), and space programs. The MANTIS and Independence® IDX image generator families are already in use worldwide, and this new integration is available to both new and existing customers. By providing upgrade guidance and validation support, Quantum3D and Norxe are ensuring that current facilities can modernize their visual systems to meet the evolving standards of pilot and operator training.

Conclusion

The collaboration between Quantum3D and Norxe AS represents a calculated step forward in the evolution of visual simulation. By combining open-architecture software with solid-state illumination hardware, the companies have effectively closed the “blur gap” that has historically plagued high-speed simulation. The delivery of 8K resolution at 240Hz provides a level of clarity that aligns with the physiological capabilities of the human eye, ensuring that training environments are as close to reality as technically possible.

As the industry moves toward more complex training requirements, including eVTOL certification and advanced defense scenarios, the standard set by this partnership is likely to influence future developments in simulator design. The focus on eliminating artifacts, reducing latency, and providing accurate sensor stimulation demonstrates a commitment to operational readiness and safety through superior engineering.

FAQ

Question: What is the primary benefit of the Quantum3D and Norxe partnership?
Answer: The partnership integrates Quantum3D’s MANTIS software with Norxe’s projectors to deliver 8K resolution at 240Hz, eliminating motion blur and enhancing visual realism for professional simulation.

Question: How does the “4-way n-shift” technology work?
Answer: It uses a native 4K chip and physically shifts the optical path four times per frame at high speed. This creates a perceived 8K image with smoother edges and higher detail without the cost of native 8K hardware.

Question: What is the difference between Interpolation and Extrapolation modes in MANTIS?
Answer: Interpolation calculates intermediate frames for maximum smoothness but adds slight latency. Extrapolation predicts future frames to minimize latency, which is critical for fast-reaction training scenarios.

Sources

• Quantum3D

A New Era for Belgian Pilot Training

The Belgian government has officially confirmed a significant modernization of its military aviation capabilities by awarding a 20-year service contract to Swiss manufacturers Pilatus Aircraft. This agreement secures the acquisition and operation of the PC-7 MKX Training System, a move designed to overhaul the basic flying training curriculum for the Belgian Air Component. The contract represents a strategic pivot from legacy platforms to a highly digitized, service-oriented training model.

This decision marks the conclusion of a long-standing era defined by the Marchetti SF-260, a fleet that has served Belgium for over half a century. As the demands of modern aerial warfare evolve, particularly with the incoming fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighters, the necessity for a training platform that bridges the technological gap between basic flight principles and advanced systems management has become paramount. The PC-7 MKX is selected to fulfill this critical role, ensuring that future pilots are trained in an environment that mirrors the complexity of frontline operations.

We observe that this procurement is not merely a purchase of hardware but a comprehensive service agreement. By structuring the deal as a long-term partnership involving domestic and international stakeholders, Belgium is securing guaranteed fleet availability and infrastructure development. This approach aligns with broader European trends where defense ministries seek to minimize operational risks while maximizing training efficiency through industry collaboration.

The “Power-by-the-Hour” Service Model

A defining feature of this agreement is its structure as a “power-by-the-hour” or availability-based contract rather than a traditional direct purchase. Valued at approximately €40 million per year, the contract stipulates that Pilatus and its partners are responsible for delivering a guaranteed number of flight-ready aircraft daily. This shifts the burden of maintenance, supply chain management, and operational readiness from the Belgian Air Component to the industry providers.

To execute this ambitious service model, Pilatus has aligned with key Belgian partners. Sabena Engineering will oversee in-country technical support, airworthiness management, and daily fleet maintenance. This partnership ensures that while the airframes are Swiss-made, the operational expertise and logistical support remain deeply rooted in the Belgian aerospace sector. Furthermore, the contract includes significant infrastructure development managed by AG Real Estate, which will oversee the construction of new hangars and training centers at the Beauvechain Air Base.

The timeline for this transition is set with precision. Deliveries of the 18 new PC-7 MKX aircraft are scheduled to commence in 2027, with the first pilot training courses expected to begin in 2028. This schedule allows for a seamless phase-out of the aging Marchetti fleet while providing ample time for the construction of necessary ground-based training systems and facilities.

The agreement represents a shift from asset ownership to service assurance, guaranteeing that student pilots have access to modern platforms without the administrative burden of fleet lifecycle management falling solely on the military.

Technical Capabilities of the PC-7 MKX

The PC-7 MKX is widely regarded as a “smart trainer,” engineered specifically to prepare student pilots for the cognitive load of modern combat aircraft. At the heart of this platform is the “glass cockpit,” featuring the Garmin G3000 PRIME avionics suite. This system includes three large, high-definition displays that mimic the layout and functionality of fifth-generation fighters. By introducing students to complex avionics early in their training, the system reduces the learning curve when transitioning to advanced platforms like the F-35.

Safety and performance upgrades are also central to the new fleet. The aircraft is powered by a Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-25C engine, delivering 700 shaft horsepower, which offers a balance of high performance and low operating costs. Crucially, the PC-7 MKX is equipped with Martin-Baker Mk 15A ejection seats. This inclusion represents a substantial upgrade in pilot safety compared to the outgoing fleet, providing a reliable escape system for instructors and students in critical emergencies.

Beyond the aircraft itself, the training package includes advanced ground-based simulation tools. The contract covers the provision of flight simulators and virtual/mixed reality (VR/MR) systems. These tools allow for extensive mission debriefing and scenario rehearsal, enabling pilots to master complex procedures in a controlled digital environment before taking to the skies. This “downloading” of training tasks from the aircraft to the simulator is a cost-effective strategy that enhances overall training quality.

Strategic Implications and European Alignment

The selection of the PC-7 MKX places Belgium in alignment with its closest European allies. Both France and the Netherlands have recently selected the same platform for their respective pilot training programs. This commonality offers significant opportunities for cross-border cooperation. We anticipate that operating a shared platform will facilitate the development of common training doctrines, shared maintenance synergies, and potentially joint training exercises, strengthening the interoperability of European air forces.

This acquisition is inextricably linked to the Belgian Air Component’s broader modernization efforts. As the country prepares to integrate the F-35 Lightning II, the training pipeline must evolve to produce pilots capable of managing data-centric warfare. The PC-7 MKX serves as the foundational step in this pipeline, ensuring that the cognitive habits formed during basic training are compatible with the systems management required in a fifth-generation cockpit.

The Future of the “Red Devils”

The arrival of the PC-7 MKX signals the end of the road for the SIAI-Marchetti SF-260, a legendary aircraft that has been the workhorse of Belgian pilot training for 55 years. Consequently, the famous “Red Devils” aerobatic display team, which operates the SF-260, has officially paused its activities as of late 2024. This transition period marks an emotional milestone for aviation enthusiasts and the Air Component alike.

However, reports indicate that this is a suspension rather than a permanent disbandment. The team is currently in a transition phase, with operations on hold until the new PC-7 MKX fleet is fully operational. A new display concept is expected to be defined around 2028, once the new aircraft have been integrated and instructors have achieved proficiency on the type. This pause allows the Air Component to focus resources on the critical task of implementing the new training syllabus without the distraction of maintaining a display schedule on an obsolete platform.

Conclusion

The awarding of this contract to Pilatus is a definitive step toward securing the future of Belgian military aviation. By replacing a 55-year-old legacy fleet with a state-of-the-art “smart trainer,” Belgium is ensuring that its next generation of pilots is equipped with the skills necessary for modern aerial warfare. The comprehensive service model, valued at €40 million annually, reflects a modern approach to defense procurement that prioritizes availability and partnership over simple asset acquisition.

As the first aircraft arrive in 2027, the focus will shift to the successful integration of these systems at Beauvechain Air Base. With strong industrial partners and strategic alignment with neighboring nations, the PC-7 MKX program promises to deliver a robust, safe, and technologically advanced training environment for decades to come.

FAQ

Question: What aircraft is replacing the Marchetti SF-260 in Belgium?
Answer: The Marchetti SF-260 is being replaced by the Pilatus PC-7 MKX, a modern turboprop trainer equipped with a digital glass cockpit.

Question: When will the new training system be operational?
Answer: Deliveries of the aircraft are scheduled to begin in 2027, with the first pilot training courses starting in 2028.

Question: What is the value and duration of the contract?
Answer: The contract is a 20-year service agreement valued at approximately €40 million per year.

Question: Will the Red Devils aerobatic team continue to fly?
Answer: The Red Devils have paused operations as of late 2024 due to the retirement of the SF-260. They are expected to return with a new concept using the PC-7 MKX around 2028.

Sources: Airforce Technology

European Heli Center Breaks Ground on “Rotorbase” Training Facility

The landscape of European aviation training is set for a significant expansion as the European Heli Center (EHC) officially begins construction on a new headquarters and training complex. Located at Lelystad Airport in the Netherlands, this new facility, branded as “Rotorbase,” represents a strategic effort to centralize helicopters operations, maintenance, and advanced simulation under one roof. The project marks a collaborative milestone involving EHC, simulator manufacturer Reiser Simulation and Training, and the simulator operator Vertisim.

Construction on the facility commenced in November 2025, signaling the start of a development timeline that aims to deliver a fully operational training ecosystem by early 2027. The initiative is designed to address the evolving needs of the helicopter industry by moving away from the traditional flight school model. Instead, the project aims to create a multi-disciplinary hub capable of supporting diverse sectors, including Emergency Medical Services (EMS), police forces, offshore operations, and commercial aviation.

The decision to situate this hub at Lelystad Airport aligns with the location’s growing reputation as a center for general aviation and aerospace innovation. By integrating high-fidelity simulation with practical flight training and technical maintenance, the facility aims to streamline the logistical challenges often faced by operators. We observe that this development comes at a time when the industry is seeking more efficient, cost-effective ways to maintain pilot proficiency across complex mission profiles.

A New Ecosystem for Helicopter Operations

The “Rotorbase” concept distinguishes itself by functioning as a comprehensive ecosystem rather than a standalone training center. According to project details, the facility will serve as the new European headquarters for EHC, an entity formed through the merger of Helicentre in the Netherlands and the European Helicopter Center in Norway. With a combined fleet of 21 helicopters and over 45 years of operational experience, the organization is positioning this new base to support “Harvard-level” training standards, ranging from private licensing to advanced mission-specific instruction.

The infrastructure at Lelystad Airport is being developed to house not only classrooms and briefing rooms but also maintenance hangars and technical support services. This integration allows for a seamless flow between theoretical instruction, simulator sessions, and actual flight time. For operators, the ability to conduct heavy maintenance and pilot recurrent training in a single location offers potential operational efficiencies, reducing the downtime associated with sending crews and aircraft to separate locations.

The timeline for the project is ambitious yet structured. Following the start of construction in late 2025, the physical building is projected to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2026. The installation and calibration of the training equipment are scheduled to follow immediately, with the facility expected to be fully operational for pilot training by the first quarter of 2027. This schedule reflects the complexity of installing certified aviation training devices, which require rigorous testing before regulatory approval.

“Together with REISER, we are creating a facility that will define the future of helicopter training in Europe.”, Jeroen Peddemors, CEO of European Heli Center.

Advanced Simulation Technology

At the core of the Rotorbase facility is the acquisition of a Level D Full Flight Simulator (FFS), manufactured by Reiser Simulation and Training. In the aviation industry, Level D qualification represents the highest standard of flight simulation. It provides such high fidelity in motion, visuals, and systems integration that regulatory bodies allow pilots to log flight hours in the device that count directly toward their license and mission ratings. This capability is critical for training dangerous procedures, such as engine failures or severe weather operations, which cannot be safely practiced in a real aircraft.

The simulator selected for the facility features advanced roll-on/roll-off technology, a system that allows for the physical reconfiguration of the cockpit. This design enables the simulator to switch between the Airbus H135 and Airbus H145 helicopter types. These two airframes are among the most widely used twin-engine helicopters globally, particularly in the EMS and law enforcement sectors. The ability to train on both types within the same facility addresses a common logistical hurdle for operators who maintain mixed fleets.

Vertisim, a partner entity within the Rotorbase complex, will house and operate the simulator. This arrangement allows EHC to focus on curriculum delivery while ensuring the technical operation of the device is managed by specialists. The simulator is expected to support the latest avionics suites, including the H145 D3 standard, ensuring that pilots are training on systems that match the modern aircraft currently entering service.

“The start of construction brings us one step closer to delivering a modern and efficient training capability for operators worldwide.”, Dr. Johannes Hain, CEO of Reiser Simulation and Training.

Strategic Implications for the Industry

The establishment of this facility addresses a broader context within the global aviation market: a persistent demand for highly skilled helicopter pilots. As sectors such as offshore wind energy and air ambulance services expand, the requirement for pilots proficient in twin-engine operations continues to grow. By providing a centralized location for H135 and H145 training, the facility aims to support the workforce development necessary to sustain these critical services.

Furthermore, the project highlights the continued evolution of Lelystad Airport. While the airport has faced political complexities regarding commercial airline traffic, it has successfully attracted investments in general aviation and high-tech aerospace sectors. The Rotorbase project reinforces this trajectory, establishing a high-value training hub that operates independently of commercial runway slots, thereby utilizing the airport’s infrastructure to its full potential without relying on holiday traffic.

Looking ahead, the integration of simulation and live flying at this scale may set a new benchmark for European training centers. As regulatory requirements for mission training become more stringent, the availability of Level D simulators accessible to third-party operators becomes increasingly vital. The collaboration between EHC, Reiser, and Vertisim suggests a model where hardware manufacturers and training providers work in closer proximity to deliver tailored solutions to the market.

Conclusion

The groundbreaking of the Rotorbase facility at Lelystad Airport marks a pivotal moment for the European Heli Center and its partners. By combining a large-scale training fleet with state-of-the-art Level D simulation for Airbus H135 and H145 helicopters, the project is poised to become a central node in the European helicopter industry. The anticipated opening in early 2027 will likely offer operators a streamlined solution for their training and maintenance requirements.

As the aviation industry continues to demand higher standards of safety and efficiency, facilities that integrate multiple aspects of operations, from ab initio training to advanced mission simulation, will play a crucial role. We will continue to monitor the progress of the construction and the subsequent operational rollout of the simulator technology as the project moves toward its completion date.

FAQ

What is the “Rotorbase”?
Rotorbase is the name of the new training facility and headquarters being built by the European Heli Center at Lelystad Airport. It is designed as an ecosystem combining flight training, simulation, and maintenance.

When will the new facility be operational?
Construction began in November 2025. The building is expected to be ready by Q4 2026, with the simulator and full training operations scheduled to launch in Q1 2027.

Which helicopters does the simulator support?
The facility will feature a Reiser Level D Full Flight Simulator capable of supporting both the Airbus H135 and Airbus H145 via a roll-on/roll-off interchangeable cockpit system.

Sources

• Vertical Mag