New Military Simulations Unveiled: Shooting, Trench War, Drones Take Center Stage

At the upcoming Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation, and Education Conference in Orlando, Florida, from Nov. 27 to Dec.1, advancements in military simulations will take center stage. Two notable innovations set to be showcased include a cutting-edge shooting simulation system designed to replace outdated technology and a tactical training simulation integrating drone operations, counter-drone tactics, and trench warfare inspired by events in Ukraine.

The Lockheed Martin SIMRES system is poised to revolutionize force-on-force shooting simulations, aiming to supersede the decades-old multiple integrated laser engagement system (MILES). The MILES system, in use since the 1980s, employs lasers fired from weapon modules to register hits on opposing forces. However, its limitations include a flat trajectory, inability to simulate indirect fire, and vulnerability to disruptions by obstacles.

In response to these shortcomings, Lockheed Martin SIMRES system employs a multifaceted approach involving GPS, sensing, software, and Lidar technologies. This combination creates a virtual space for live training, introducing an "e-bullet" concept that models real-world physics for projectiles. By scanning the training area and employing sensors on participants, the system tracks movements, weapon orientation, hits, and misses. Unlike its predecessor, this technology can simulate indirect fire, providing a more comprehensive and realistic training experience.

The SIMRES system is currently in development and is not yet competing for an active Army contract. Still, it aligns with the Army ongoing efforts, particularly the Cross-Functional Team-Synthetic Training Environment, to enhance simulation capabilities. The new system addresses the limitations of MILES, allowing for more versatile and effective training scenarios.

Meanwhile, Bohemia Interactive Simulations is set to unveil updates to its Virtual Battlespace program at the conference. VBS4, the fourth iteration of this long-standing program, introduces features catering to the evolving landscape of modern warfare. Notable additions include drone operator and counter-drone perspectives, as well as tactical trench warfare training inspired by recent conflicts.

The company simulations allow users to train drone operators for both offensive and defensive scenarios. Offensive training includes simulating drone payload drops or running a drone into a tank, while defensive exercises involve simulating drone weapons. The program also features an artificial intelligence application that evaluates the effectiveness of counter-drone measures, concealing positions, and provides key training insights based on real-world trench engagements, particularly drawing from the Russia-Ukraine War.

In summary, these innovations showcased at the conference highlight the ongoing efforts to advance military training simulations, incorporating the latest technologies to create more realistic and effective training environments