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This article has been written by Methoxy pursuing a Training program on Using AI for Business Growth course from Skill Arbitrage.

This article has been edited and published by Shashwat Kaushik.

Introduction 

Across the globe, virtual reality has become recognised as one of the most exciting technologies that helps enhance human capabilities and elevate performance. The reach of virtual reality has extended beyond academic study, with industries now making substantial investments in both research and the creation of VR products. Fields like information technology, biomedical engineering, structural design, and training tools are all pouring resources into this technology. One of the sectors where VR has made significant strides is the military. The military has always been at the forefront of adopting new technologies, and virtual reality is no exception. “With the expanding possibilities of data and graphics processing, the number of uses of augmented reality in the military grows exponentially.” Michael Morozov, founder and CEO of Jasoren, a VR software company producing AR tools, said in a report.

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Advent of VR technology in military services

The origins of virtual reality (VR) in the military can be traced back to the late 1980s, when groundbreaking work was done in this field. Tom Furness, a renowned computer scientist and pioneer in VR technology, presented the first virtual flight simulator specifically designed for training Air Force pilots. This simulator revolutionised pilot training by providing a realistic and immersive experience that closely mimicked real-world flying conditions. Pilots could practice complex manoeuvres, handle emergencies, and familiarise themselves with aircraft systems in a controlled virtual environment. The success of this initial project paved the way for further advancements in VR technologies throughout the 1990s and 2000s.

As VR technologies progressed, their applications in military operations expanded significantly. One of the most significant use-cases of VR in the military is effective training. Virtual reality training systems offer a safe and cost-effective way to train soldiers for various combat scenarios. Trainees can engage in immersive simulations that replicate real-world battlefield conditions, allowing them to practice tactical decision-making, combat techniques, and coordination with teammates. VR training has been proven to enhance learning outcomes, improve retention of information, and reduce the need for live-fire exercises, which can be both dangerous and expensive.

Another critical application of VR in the military is simulation-enhanced situational awareness. Virtual reality systems can create realistic virtual representations of operational environments, allowing soldiers to familiarise themselves with the terrain, potential threats, and escape routes before entering the actual combat zone. This enhanced situational awareness can significantly improve soldiers’ decision-making capabilities and reduce the risk of casualties during missions.

Beyond training and situational awareness, VR also has promising applications in psychological support and rehabilitation for soldiers. Virtual reality therapy has been shown to be effective in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health issues commonly experienced by military personnel. VR simulations can recreate traumatic experiences in a controlled environment, enabling soldiers to process their emotions, confront their fears, and develop coping mechanisms. VR therapy has been found to reduce symptoms of PTSD, improve sleep quality, and enhance overall mental well-being.

The use of VR in combat training has undergone remarkable evolution since its humble beginnings as a flight simulator. Today, VR technologies offer a wide range of training opportunities, from basic skill development to complex mission rehearsals. Soldiers can engage in immersive simulations that replicate various combat scenarios, such as urban warfare, close-quarters combat, and counter-insurgency operations. VR training systems can track and evaluate individual and team performance, providing valuable feedback to instructors and commanders. As VR technologies continue to advance, we can expect even more innovative and sophisticated applications of VR in military combat training, ultimately leading to better-prepared and more effective soldiers on the battlefield.

Military training and VR- a game changer collaboration

Preparing confident defence personnel to tackle any kind of situation on the battlefield is of   paramount importance and can never be underestimated. According to a report by HTC Vive, 80% of active-duty military trainers who used VR for training reported an increase in their crew’s confidence, attributed to the cultivation of the required muscle memory (Cognitive Muscle Memory Development) for successful application.

In comparison to conventional training techniques that were time-consuming, costly and potentially dangerous, VR training techniques have made military training more efficient, cost effective, realistic and risk free.

Virtual reality is valuable for training exercises that are too rare, costly, or risky to perform in real life. In the military, simulations help soldiers and small units improve their combat skills by mimicking actual vehicles, soldiers, and combat scenarios. VR reduces the need for expensive physical resources and training locations. For example, flight simulations save on the massive costs of operating actual aircraft for training.

The number of instructors has decreased with the development of programmes supporting skill drills, physical fitness and other boot camp experiences. A clear and exact picture of the battlefield can be experienced through VR simulation in 3D, which helps predict the opponent’s moves and design strategies accordingly. It also makes it possible to replicate real war scenarios with a zero risk factor.

Military preparedness through virtual reality training

In this world of cruel competition in the arms race, those with advanced technologies always take over the others by storm. The invention of new inventory every now and then, makes it difficult for the military world to meet these challenges and always be ahead of others. The advancements in the virtual reality industry has brought oceans of opportunities for the military sector.

As the virtual reality industry was climbing up another summit, the military kept coming up with new ways of implementing VR technologies in soldier training, some of which are:

Virtual boot camp and combat training

Virtual simulation has started playing a role in the soldier’s carrier from the very first day of his training with virtual boot camp experience. Certain military bases are adopting immersive rooms for soldier training. For instance, the Virtual Squad Training System (VSTS) at Schofield Barracks in Hawaii utilises head-mounted displays (HMD) with motion trackers, full-body tracking systems, and wireless weapon controllers. These systems accurately replicate the size, weight, and shape of actual military weapons. Through such virtual reality setups, participants learn to collaborate effectively and understand the consequences of their actions on fellow soldiers during battlefield scenarios.

Highly realistic and immersive combat scenarios created through virtual reality help soldiers practice different warfare situations (urban or jungle), tactics and strategies. With a VR headset equipped with a portable battery and true-to-life guns, soldiers can model different warfare scenarios accompanied by an AI or their real teammates. Entire VR-equipped bases and training facilities have started to spring up. CAVE systems, motion trackers, and real-to-life equipment like vests and guns are some of VR devices and softwares used for training purposes.

Firearm training simulators

With everyday introduction of sophisticated and more advanced fire weapons, it becomes necessary to train soldiers both for their usage and defence from them. This has been made cost effective and safe by the use of firearm simulators, which are actual replicas of real weapons. Through these trainees, they can experience photorealistic 3D terrain and 3D targets to practice their shooting and marksmanship skills.

Military vehicle simulators

Forces can get trained for all sorts of tacked/ wheeled, armoured/unarmored military vehicles used in warfares for critical missions. Vehicle driving, crew training, convoy driving and operating on multiple terrains are some of the purposes vehicle simulators are used for.

Electro-optic and Infrared Sensor Simulator

The EO/IR simulators are being used worldwide by the aerospace and defence industry to train their teams on operations of EO/ IR sensors. This allows the trainees to operate and configure integrated cameras and sensors deployed on aircrafts, land or marine vehicles.

Efficient medical response in high-stress situations /Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC)

In the military, including roles like medics, members often face intense situations that are hard to recreate in regular training. Virtual reality (VR) offers a solution by letting trainees experience realistic scenarios, like battlefield triage or tactical rescues, and practice effective responses. This training is so crucial that every military member, regardless of their role, is required to undergo it.

Natural disaster management

During climate emergencies and pandemics, the military is the first force to step in to assist because civilian organisations may not be equipped to handle the situation quickly enough. To help all army personnel prepare for these scenarios, we can use virtual reality training. This way, soldiers can learn how to manage emergencies effectively. This training will be vital in saving lives and reducing damage during national crises.

Engineering, Maintaining and Optimising Military Equipments

The military is increasingly intrigued by virtual reality technology due to its cost-effectiveness and safety benefits. Using VR, they can simulate and evaluate new weapon designs and maintenance strategies without the expense of building physical prototypes. In weapon development, immersive virtual reality assists engineers by enabling them to:

  1. Test the design within virtual environments and/or through motion-tracking simulations.
  2. Experience realistic operation of weapons using haptic feedback.
  3. Incorporate tactical and technical performance data to enhance the design process.

This technology also enables thorough testing and refinement of designs before any physical construction begins, streamlining the development process. Additionally, virtual reality proves valuable in prototyping various military equipment, offering broader applications in manufacturing, maintenance, and repair operations.

VR speeds up product development for new weapons or military installations and improves their overall effectiveness and quality. This is particularly effective when developing large-scale products such as an aircraft or a ship. Virtual reality technology helps you visualise your designs at 1:1 scale and make changes in real time.

Key benefits of VR technology to military

  • AR/VR hardware facilitates natural actions and movements.
  • All-in-one VR headsets enable training flexibility—anytime, anywhere, for any scenario.
  • Lifelike training minimises risks for trainees.
  • VR simulations are scalable and adaptable to varying needs.
  • Detailed 3D reviews offer multiple viewpoints for comprehensive assessment.
  • Reduced training and engineering costs are achieved through VR implementation.
  • VR training addresses the Training Crisis and effectively engages new recruits.

Vehicle and aircraft simulations

Virtual reality (VR) technology has revolutionised various industries, including military training. One significant application of VR is in vehicle and aircraft simulations, offering a safe, immersive, and cost-effective way to train soldiers on operating and maintaining these complex machines.

Vehicle and aircraft simulations employ VR headsets to create realistic and interactive environments that mimic the actual vehicles or aircraft. Soldiers can virtually sit in the driver’s seat or pilot’s cabin and experience the controls, instrumentation, and operational procedures. These simulations can be customised to replicate specific vehicles or aircraft models, allowing soldiers to familiarise themselves with the unique features and characteristics of their assigned equipment.

One of the primary benefits of VR simulations is the enhanced safety they provide compared to traditional training methods. In real-world training exercises, soldiers may be exposed to dangerous situations or accidents due to mechanical failures or human errors. VR simulations eliminate these risks by allowing soldiers to practice in a controlled virtual environment. They can simulate various scenarios, including extreme weather conditions, mechanical malfunctions, and emergency situations, without putting themselves or others at risk.

Furthermore, VR simulations offer significant cost savings compared to conventional training methods. Operating and maintaining actual vehicles or aircraft can be expensive and time-consuming. VR simulations, on the other hand, can be conducted in virtual spaces, eliminating the need for physical resources. This allows military organisations to train a large number of soldiers simultaneously, optimising training resources and budgets.

VR simulations also provide an excellent platform for training soldiers on driving and flying skills. They can practice manoeuvring vehicles or aircraft in different terrains or airspaces, experiencing realistic physics and handling characteristics. These simulations can be customised to include challenging scenarios such as off-road driving, formation flying, and evasive manoeuvres, enhancing soldiers’ confidence and competence in operating their vehicles or aircraft.

Additionally, VR simulations can be used to train soldiers on tactical manoeuvres and emergency procedures. They can simulate combat scenarios, allowing soldiers to practice decision-making, coordination, and teamwork in a safe and controlled environment. These simulations can help soldiers develop critical thinking skills, situational awareness, and the ability to respond effectively to unexpected events.

VR simulations are an invaluable tool for vehicle and aircraft training in the military. They offer a safe, cost-effective, and immersive way to train soldiers on the operation, maintenance, driving, flying, and tactical skills required to excel in their roles. As VR technology continues to advance, we can expect even more sophisticated and realistic simulations that further enhance military training and readiness.

Remote surveillance and reconnaissance with VR technology

Virtual reality (VR) offers a groundbreaking solution for remote surveillance and reconnaissance in military operations. It allows soldiers to transcend physical limitations and gain real-time situational awareness without exposing themselves to danger.

Through VR, soldiers can wear specialised headsets that transport them to a virtual replica of the target area. They can navigate this virtual environment, utilising 360-degree panoramic views to observe terrain, enemy positions, and activities. This immersive experience enhances soldiers’ understanding of the battlefield and enables them to gather critical intelligence.

Moreover, VR technology facilitates covert operations. Soldiers can deploy small, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with cameras to gather visual data without being physically present. This remote surveillance capability minimises the risk of detection and allows for discreet monitoring of enemy movements.

Additionally, VR can simulate various scenarios, enabling soldiers to train for diverse combat situations. They can practice responding to ambushes, urban warfare, or hostage situations, honing their skills and enhancing their preparedness for real-world missions.

By leveraging VR for remote surveillance and reconnaissance, militaries gain the advantage of real-time intelligence, improved decision-making, and increased operational effectiveness while minimising the exposure of personnel to harm’s way.

Medical and first aid training

Virtual Reality (VR) technology has emerged as a game-changing tool for medical and first aid training, particularly in military settings. VR offers a safe and realistic environment where soldiers can hone their medical skills and prepare for real-world scenarios.

One of the key benefits of VR in medical training is the ability to simulate injured soldiers. This allows medics and other medical personnel to practice triage, wound assessment, and emergency medical procedures on virtual patients. The VR environment enables them to encounter a wide range of injuries and medical emergencies, from minor cuts and bruises to severe trauma and life-threatening conditions. The simulations can be tailored to specific scenarios, such as treating casualties on the battlefield or responding to natural disasters.

VR also provides a safe and controlled environment for medical staff to practice administering first aid and performing emergency medical procedures. This is especially important for soldiers who may be deployed to remote or hostile areas where access to medical resources is limited. By practicing in a VR environment, they can build confidence and competence in their abilities, which can ultimately lead to better patient outcomes.

Furthermore, VR training can be customised to address the unique needs of different medical specialities. For example, combat medics can practice treating gunshot wounds and blast injuries, while nurses can focus on patient care and monitoring. This tailored approach ensures that medical personnel receive the most relevant and effective training for their specific roles.

Overall, VR technology revolutionises medical and first aid training for soldiers by providing a safe, realistic, and immersive environment to practice their skills. It enhances their ability to respond effectively to a wide range of medical emergencies, ultimately improving patient care and outcomes on the battlefield and beyond.

VR technology and Indian military

With the core aim of making India a manufacturing hub, the Government has imposed a complete ban on import of warfare weapons. To reduce expenses on training and extend the life of real equipment, the Indian government is focussing on simulation technology. Lately, the Defence Ministry of India has announced a policy for the synergised utilisation of simulators for training purposes by Indian Defence Forces. The main objectives of this policy are:

  • Reduction in use of live equipments
  • To ensure phase induction of Simulators
  • Understanding simulator requirements ahead of their procurement involves examining the requirements of simulators across various government agencies.
  • This will provide a great opportunity to Indian companies to enter the growing simulator market.

Does the military consider virtual reality as an absolute replacement

Nobody in the military accepts that VR technology can be an absolute replacement of conventional training techniques. No doubt, setting up such a facility is not cheap, but it proves to be cost-efficient as soldiers can quickly change their training type within a relatively small area.

However, the best option would be to combine virtual reality with real-life training courses. Yes, it is a great tool that, in combination with traditional ways of training, can help the military enhance training speed, reduce overall training expenses, increase military equipment life and provide quality training to their soldiers.

Conclusion

With VR training techniques, “we can get better training for our soldiers and we can do it more efficiently,” said LTC Michael Stinchfield of the Combined Arms Centre’s Training Innovation Facility at the National Simulation Centre. Virtual reality’s immersive nature allows soldiers to experience highly realistic training scenarios. Using VR headsets, trainees can virtually navigate through any environment—a battlefield, a military aircraft, or even a submarine. This simulated yet life-like exposure helps prepare them for the actual challenges they might face, enhancing their combat readiness.

References

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