An airborne avionics simulator system integrated into a low-cost host aircraft to simulate the avionics of a high performance aircraft. The simulated avionics system includes for example radar, radar warning, chaff, radar locks, weapons systems, electronic defensive systems, and navigation systems. The airborne avionics simulator system can be programmed with various scenarios, such as air-to-air or air-to-ground combat, navigational situations, aircraft malfunctions, and general training routines. A multi-function display provides for simulating the avionics of various high performance aircraft. Additionally, the cockpit of the host aircraft may be modified to simulate the control stick, throttle assemblies and other aspects of a particular high performance aircraft.