WEBVTT

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- [Narrator] We've
revolutionized the way we train

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new maintainers at RAF Mildenhall,

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by designing and fabricating
a confined space trainer.

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We've bridged the gap in training between

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when new maintainers arrive on station,

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and the three months it
takes for medical clearance

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for them to get in tank.

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- [Male] We realized,

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through the confined space
trainers implementation,

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that there is clear communication
and immediate feedback

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between the trainer and trainee.

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They can communicate without barriers.

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This is a huge improvement
in the quality of training.

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The next step is obvious;

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find a way to remove the
communication barrier

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in an aircraft fuel tank.

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- [Narrator] The technology
exists individually,

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but has not been combined into
a single piece of equipment.

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Maintainers are cut off
from the outside world

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when they're in the tank.

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- [Male] If divers, race car drivers,

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and astronauts have unique, bi-directional

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audio and video technology,

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why shouldn't we have the same?

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- [Narrator] The immediate benefits

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are saved man hours and
increased efficiency,

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by reducing the number of times personnel

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enter and exit the tank.

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This capability leads to
synergized trouble shooting,

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since immediate audio and
visual communication would exist

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between the maintainer in the tank,

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and their support outside.

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Whether that be peers,

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or engineering experts back in the states.

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- [Male] Most importantly, the direct

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monitoring of personnel in
confined space conditions

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drastically reduces risk
and increases safety.

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The 500,000 dollar investment

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can help our airmen execute
the mission here and beyond.

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This system will be a game
changer for the air force.

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(dramatic music)

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(music fades)