Historical Background :
Fighter Controller Training Unit (FCTU) was established on 03 March 1983 to train Air Defence (AD) professionals of BAF. The first organized Air Defence Weapon Controller (ADWC) Course started here on 4 th August 1983. AD trade related courses for Airmen are also conducted here.Location :
The institute is located at capital Dhaka, just about half a kilometre inside from the main entrance of the cantonment.The Faculty
Experienced instructors trained home and abroad including training on NADGE (NATO Air Defence Ground Environment) conduct classes here. The highly professional officers of ADWC branch conduct the subject of primary profession, ie, Air Defence System and practical phases that includes synthetic and live interceptions. Air Defence Weapon Controllers of high career profile, having outstanding academic fit, are posted as instructors at this institution. The specialized officers of concerned branches conduct other allied subjects as part time instructors.The Courses
Course Name | Duration | Frequency |
Basic ADWC Course | 26 weeks | Twice in a year |
Radar Operator Basic | 36 weeks | Three in two years |
Radar Operator Advance course | 36 weeks | Three in two years |
Senior Trade of FCO | 21 weeks | Twice in a year |
Aircraft Recognition | 01 weeks | Requirement basis |
Mobile Observer | 02 week | Requirement basis |
Training Curriculum
Simulator
FCTU has modern and fine equipment and suitable instructors. Its Admiral Radar Controller Simulator (ARCS) is fully computerized and has 12 workstations. Each station can simulate 250 ac, a good number of airfields, weather, 4 Radar stations under ECM and ECCM condition. A controller can practice GCI as many as he can conduct simultaneously and the FCOs can practice reading, recording and surveillance duties. With the ability of programming facilities, pre-defined scenario can be programmed and recorded. Exercises can also be displayed on the screen. Simulated AD battle and players syndicate presentation on defence logic can be practiced here. BAF authority is actively considering integrating of war-gaming system in this institution and that will enhance its training capabilities further.Extra Curricular Activities
FCTU has a resourceful library having professional, technical, and miscellaneous books numbering around 2000, and latest defence magazines and journals. Educational visits are conducted in between the courses at different concerned organizations and installations that are beneficial for the concerned courses. Other extra curricular activities are also carried out.Accommodation
Local BAF Base provides accommodation. For foreign students, an international standard accommodation is available in the BAF Officers’ Mess, Dhaka.Training of Overseas Students
34 student officers and 23 airmen from Kenya, Srilanka and Malaysia so far attended the courses at FCTU.Conclusion
FCTU has already earned a high reputation in training officers and men from different foreign countries and sister services of Bangladesh. The institute is enhancing its capability, standard, and facilities to meet any future challenges.