An aircraft fire training simulator has been installed at RNAS Yeovilton.
The simulator is based on a Merlin (EH 101) fuselage and provides realistic training in an atmosphere of controllable flame and heat.
The move is described as a major investment in fire crew training at the base. Apart from providing continued training, the simulator will have a lesser negative impact on the environment than its kerosene-fuelled predecessor.
Admiral Terry Loughran officially opened the simulator last week.
The base has also installed new cameras in two Royal Navy Lynx Mk8 helicopter simulator systems as part of an upgrade.
Ken Combes, who is the Yeovilton site manager for training and simulation equipment provider CAE, said: "Simulation is a vital part of helicopter aircrew training, both for tactical and emergency procedures.
"The challenge for us was to get an image that was clear and had the correct colours. The image also had to be flicker-free.
"We decided to contact Telstar Communications who, with the help of JVC, have designed a very effective low-cost solution that has allowed our customer, the Royal Navy, to use their equipment to its full capability."