Red 6, an augmented reality (AR) firm based in Florida, has secured a contract with the US Air Force to deliver its ATARS (Airborne Tactical Augmented Reality System) for the F-16 Fighting Falcon.
The technology enables pilots to train in live flight scenarios against virtual, maneuvering opponents, providing a realistic and adaptive combat environment. The system will be integrated into two F-16 aircraft over the next 12–18 months.
ATARS has already been adapted for use with the MC-130, RAF Hawk T-2, and T-38 Talon, and Red 6 has ongoing integration partnerships with Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Korea Aerospace Industries.
The platform includes a helmet-mounted optical system, onboard processor, and connectivity architecture, ensuring compatibility across aircraft and training systems. It offers immersive, high-resolution visuals of enemy and allied assets, creating authentic combat training conditions.
By generating structured data for performance evaluation, ATARS enhances pilot assessment while addressing the high cost of live red-team exercises and the limitations of simulators. The capability also aligns with the USAF’s next-generation collaborative combat aircraft strategy, designed to pair manned fighters with autonomous loyal wingmen.
