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I/ITSEC 2014: Seen and Heard on Day One

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VT MÄK (booth #1225) provides the simulation technology and software architecture to build modern command staff training systems — regardless of echelon — to teach and practice planning, decision-making, and communication skills. VT MÄK’s reinvented VR-VANTAGE IG harnesses the power of the latest graphics card technology to render beautiful scenes. The company has combined this IG with four different host simulation engines to demonstrate high-performance first-person player stations.

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ACME is exhibiting its Gun Active Recoil (GAR) crew-served weapon systems, True Q Dynamic Motion Seats, and innovative air-refuelling trainers, all highly immersive training environments with full product lifecycle support --from the evaluation stage, to design, manufacturing, modification, integration and full logistics support. ACME’s patent-pending GAR weapon systems are used in both virtual-reality simulators as well as high-fidelity mounts that replicate fielded equipment and mount actual weapons. The components used to drive these recoil systems are reliable, and proven and ACME has delivered over 300 weapon recoil systems in various training environments around the world.
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3D perception (3DP) designs and supplies seamless immersive visual display solutions and technologies for simulation and visualisation applications. With nearly 9,000 visual channels fielded worldwide, 3D perception’s NORTHSTAR eco-system of multi-projector display technologies empower customers and their programmes with precision automatic image alignment, automatic colour calibration, and the ease of push-button operation and maintenance. 3DP has been contracted by ETC Simulation to provide NORTHSTAR immersive visual display systems to two major international emergency management training centers in early 2015. In the fall of 2014, 3DP installed a similar system in Portland, Oregon at Concordia University’s new Homeland Security Simulation Center. The 180° immersion theaters provide an on-scene view to incident commanders of disaster management teams, training with ETC’s Advanced Disaster Management Simulator (“ADMS”) suite. The high-resolution, multi-projector, large field-of-view display provides trainees with lifelike, life-sized engagement into a multitude of real-time emergency situations ranging from traffic accidents to a terrorist attack involving chemical releases. ETC is a long-standing customer of 3D perception, with many systems fielded over the years. 3DP is also supporting Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) at the conference.
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eyevis is one of the leading manufacturers of large scale video systems for professional applications in virtual reality and simulation. The LED-lit projectors, rear projection cubes and LCDs offer some of the best results for driving and flight simulators. eyevis has a worldwide network of subsidiaries and certified retailers. As one of the few providers, eyevis is capable of offering entire systems from one source. The product portfolio of eyevis includes display solutions, graphic controllers, IPTV and AV streaming systems as well as software applications. Lufthansa Flight Training (LFT) equipped a level-D flight simulator’s (Boeing 747-400) visual system with new LED projectors for the first time, within the scope of a long-term test. LFT replaced a LCoS projector being used in the simulator with LED projectors type ESP-LHD-1000 from eyevis. The eyevis LED projectors exceed all of the German FAA requirements for a level-D flight simulator. The eyevis LED projectors provide LED-durability of 60 operating hours compared to the 12 – 18 hours offered by the LCoS-projector, which translates to higher operational security of the simulator and less downtime and maintenance effort. Inside the simulator three projectors illuminate the rear projection area, creating an outer view of 150°x40°. Through the internal automatic colour control and a special hardware-blending, no differences or transitions are visible between the three channels. With 10fL (foot Lambert) brightness for daytime simulations and 0.003fL for nighttime, the projection system exceeds the German FAA’s requirements due to higher brightness during daytime simulations and a lower black value for night vision. eyevis and VDC's Ayon Visual Solutions (AVS), eyevis' North American partner, showcase their LED projectors at I/ITSEC at stand #758.

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Harris is a leading provider of high-quality geo-specific bundled data layers for military and commercial simulation markets.  The company’s TRUETERRAIN visualisation and simulation products are built by merging multi-source imagery at different resolutions on an elevation surface to provide realistic geo-specific, mosaic terrains. Correlated data layers include DEMs, 3D building models, material classifications and feature extracted vector products.

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Zebra Imaging, provider of 3D holographic visualisation technologies, announced a strategic partnership with Zygote Media Group, provider of 3D anatomy and biomedical models for animation and visual effects for the medical and medical education markets. Zygote says it maintains the world's most comprehensive library of accurate 3D anatomy and biomedical models and has pioneered development of high-end solid 3D anatomy models for research and bioengineering.
Zygote offers customers high-value virtual reality 3D models and 3D services, including Zygote Body, a free interactive 3D model of the human body that was co-developed with Google. Through the partnership, Zebra Imaging's customers will be able to access and create 3D holographic prints from Zygote's extensive library of human anatomy. Zygote customers will be able to order 3D Holograms of medical models direct from 3DScience.com and ZygoteBody.com. Additionally the companies will be creating joint product offerings to medical customers, including hospitals, physicians and medical educators, as well as device and pharmaceutical manufacturers.

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Airbus Defence & Space (DS) has signed a contract with the Polish MoD to provide a full flight simulator (FFS) for the Polish Air Force’s (PAF) Airbus C295 aircraft fleet. The FFS will be installed in the Krakow C295 Training Centre at the Balice Krakow Air Base, where the PAF´s 16 C295 are based – currently the world’s biggest C295 fleet. The FFS delivery is due in 2017 and it will be used to train about 40 PAF crews per year. The agreement includes the associated training for the FFS instructors and maintenance technicians of the Polish Air Force. Javier Rivera, HO Light and Medium / P3 Services of Military Aircraft business line, said: “We are very proud that the Polish Air Force is showing its trust in Airbus Defence and Space training in the same way that they trust our robust and reliable C295.
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Indra recently unveiled its new advanced cybersecurity training simulator solution in Stockholm. A group of over 50 people each conducted their own forensic computer analysis on a system previously subjected to a cyber-attack. 

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The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) has awarded CAE contracts to support SH-2G(I) Super SEASPRITE helicopter synthetic training devices. Under terms of the contracts, CAE will perform updates to an existing SH-2G(I) Full Mission Flight Simulator (FMFS) and SH-2G(I) Part Task Trainer (PTT) that the NZDF is acquiring as part of a comprehensive acquisition of ten SH-2G(I) helicopters from Kaman. Following delivery of the SH-2G(I) synthetic training devices, CAE will provide through-life support and maintenance services for 15 years. 

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AgustaWestland has signed two training services contracts to support its family of new generation helicopters. Bel Air of Denmark has signed a five years training contract featuring a comprehensive package of services including simulator training for the AW139 intermediate and the AW189 super medium twin engine helicopters. Lufttransport of Norway has signed a three year flight simulator contract for the AW139 and AW169 light intermediate helicopters. 

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Cubic Applications won four task order contracts (each include one 12-month base year and two one-year options) under the US Army Combined Arms Center (USACAC) over the last several months – worth $9.63 million, if all options are exercised. Cubic will focus on educational technology and training management support specifically for the Army’s Command and General Staff College, Mission Command Center of Excellence, and Fires Center of Excellence (Field Artillery and Air Defense Artillery). The contract work will acquire services in support of the USACAC mission to develop and produce training strategies, doctrine, concepts, instruction and products for the current and future force – and satisfy the needs of the US Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC).

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Australia’s agile TIGER Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter (ARH) received major upgrades in VBS3 v3.4 as part of a 2013 contract awarded to Bohemia Interactive Simulations (BISim) under the Air 87 project. These upgrades include changes to a number of ARH systems including the flight model, navigation, weapons, targeting and heads-up display. Onscreen optics can be resized and repositioned as required. This feature will be available in all builds from v3.6, but only for the ADF in v3.4.
The ARH aircrew will use VBS for collective training to supplement their flight training, which takes place on the ARH flight simulators.

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I/ITSEC 2014 has a WorldViz booth with demonstrations of wide-area walking training simulation systems, and several Vizard software powered simulations at industry partner exhibits including Christie Digital. Researchers at ETH University Zurich, one of the top research institutions in the world, are using a custom 3D projection WorldViz CornerCavern Virtual Reality system to investigate the relationship between stress and urban navigation. The researchers employ the WorldViz Vizard VR Software Toolkit‘s rich hardware connectivity capabilities to connect bio-metric sensors from BIOPAC and eye-tracking technology with their virtual simulations in order to study links between virtual stimuli (in this case an urban navigation tasks), stress levels, and eye movement. The CornerCavern immerses study participants in a virtual environment that is designed and rendered using Vizard, WorldViz’s Virtual Reality Software Toolkit. Vizard 5′s graphical user interface (GUI) for connecting hardware and assign their parametric influence on the virtual environment, called Vizconnect, greatly simplifies the process of integrating the growing number of VR input and output devices. It enables the researchers to implement all necessary devices into one seamless application so that they can focus on what matters – data collection and analysis.

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Scalable Network Technologies, a leader in battlefield network simulation, is demonstrating its new live-virtual-constructive (LVC) cyber training system, Network Defense Trainer (NDT), in booth #1213. NDT integrates cyber warfare with traditional kinetic warfare training, allowing attacks in one domain to affect the other. The system integrates real and simulated cyber-attacks, wired and wireless virtual networks, live and virtual equipment and applications, and traditional kinetic warfare training simulators into a full, instrumented, synthetic cyber warfare training environment. It allows trainee performance centered on awareness, reaction time and correct action (at all levels), along with ability to work through a degraded cyber environment and complete a mission, to be monitored and evaluated. "The Network Defense Trainer provides trainees with the opportunity to apply knowledge in realistic, stressful situations in high fidelity synthetic environments," stated Jim Zierick, Scalable CEO. "The system allows the user to train for situational awareness and rapid correct responses, and will reinforce lessons learned with After Action Reviews that show trainees and observers what actually happened and why giving them the skills necessary to support a live mission-critical event." Unlike other cyber ranges that use interconnected virtual machines running various operating systems and applications to replicate a live environment, Scalable's NDT leverages a true virtual network model that accurately emulates a distributed network system. Both live and virtual hosts can be connected to the virtual network model, and the system seamlessly integrates with other training systems including air traffic control, flight training, and kinetic battlefield simulators.
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SIMmersion introduces its first fully gamified soft skill training system on booth #632 . The new system introduces a variety of gaming elements into the company’s PeopleSim technology, including online competition and a series of achievement awards. After one of SIMmersion’s highly interactive training systems was named a finalist in last year’s International Serious Games Showcase and Challenge at the I/ITSEC, SIMmersion took a major step forward by introducing more gaming elements that engage trainees and stimulate hours of what seems like game play, but is, in fact, intensive training. This new technology will be invaluable for both defence and business. Research in soft-skill training shows that studying and attending workshops rarely result in a real change in behavior. “It’s difficult for anyone to change a lifetime of the way they interact with others as a result of reading or hearing a lecture even when accompanied with role plays,” says Dale Olsen, PhD, President of SIMmersion, “but research at Northwestern University and the University of Wisconsin—Madison shows that training with our simulations produces real change.” SIMmersion systems are effective because they provide for repeated practice with ongoing feedback in addition to the usual educational material. SIMmersion’s PeopleSim technology is focused on creating people who appear to be real and who respond like real people involved in a real discussion. Video is used to capture all the realism necessary to achieve the accurate appearance and authentic voice intonations. In any one play of the simulation, the on-screen person’s personality has been randomly selected. The response to the learner is unpredictable, but is driven by evaluating the conversational history and evolving simulated feelings towards the learner, as well as the selected personality. A standard computer microphone is used to speak to the simulated person. When I/ITSEC visitors watch SIMmersion’s demonstrations, they often think there is a role player at some remote location responding to the learner’s questions and statements. A role player would be much more expensive and could not always provide the realistic responses or the feedback required.

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SRI International showcases cost-effective training solutions that can be scaled to meet client-specific needs in booth 1173. With innovations in multi-mission instrumentation, augmented reality and behaviour analysis, SRI supports soldier to brigade-level training. According to the company, SRI provides the only field-proven, mobile training instrumentation that can be delivered to any military installation, turning it into a simulated battlefield. SRI's FlexTrain team demonstrates prototypes of FlexTrain weapon pointing sensors and the new software suite Orion, which is capable of tracking more than 7,000 players and enhancing the AAR experience. SRI also offers a comprehensive technology suite for computer-aided, cognitive training. Trainees can interact with intelligent avatars in mixed and augmented reality environments. These visualisation tools can increase the effectiveness of mission rehearsal with capabilities including real-time, automated behavior analysis and performance evaluation metrics.
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The prospect of a deliberate or unintentional Hazmat release or CBRN attack in this ever uncertain world of unconventional warfare requires military personnel to have a comprehensive understanding and a near real world experience of the threat. Military personnel need to learn not just the basics of personal protection equipment but understand the nature and characteristics of toxic clouds or biological contaminates. The old maxim holds good – “you can’t manage what you don’t understand”. Saab (booth #1939)  has developed its widely used military instrumented training system with an expansion pack to specifically cater for CBRN/Hazmat training. The instrumentation system is designed for two-way RF communication with an EXCON enabling command and control over the exercise. The location and status of the players can be monitored and the system can subject them to dynamic areas of toxic threats that can be detected. The system provides near real-time monitoring of Player CBRN Status – use of protective mask and clothing, health status, medical actions and contamina- tion levels.

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For more information, please see MILITARY TECHNOLOGY 12/2014, available at I/ITSEC 2014 on booth #773.

I/ITSEC 2014: Photographic Recap of Day One

IDEAS 2014: Photographic Recap from Karachi

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IAG (International Armored Group) presents the GUARDIAN armored personnel carrier. It is powered by a V8 turbocharged diesel engine or a V10 gasoline with a heavy duty automatic transmission 4x4 drivetrain. The light weight design is offering an enhanced off-road capability and handling. Max. seating capability is 10. According to IAG, there are various armour packages available, rated up to multiple impacts from powerful rifle ammunition (CEN B6/NIJ Level III). It also offers a floor blast protection. (All photos and texts by Andre Forkert)


From small arms to big guns (T5-52 155 mm truck mounted gun), the portfolio of DENEL from South America.

The A-Darter (Agile Darter) is a modern short-range infrared homing ("heat seeking") air-to-air missile, featuring countermeasures resistance with a 180-degree look angle and 120-degrees per second track rate, from Denel Dynamics. Below you can see the UMKHONTO-IR. The Umkhonto (Zulu for Spear) is a south African family of modern short to medium range, all-weather capable vertical launch (VLS) surface-to-air-missiles (SAM) manufactured by Denel Dynamics. Umkhonto is available in thrre variants: a short range infrared homing (Umkhonto-IR), a medium range infrared homing (Umkhonto-ER) and a beyond visual range radar homing version (Umkhonto-R).

Tactical communication solutions by EID from Portugal.

Heavy mortar 120 mm (MO-120AM-50 M67 by PMTF (Pakistan Machine Tool Factory).

Recoilless rifle 106 mm by PMTF (Pakistan Machine Tool Factory).

40mm RPG-7, produced by PMTF (Pakistan Machine Tool Factory).

Rohde & Schwarz MP007 Portable Direction Finding System.
Russian Helicopters are showing their latest helicopter versions – as models.


Software Defined RCIED Jammer by Aselsan. This is the manpack version of the KiRPi and a protection up to group level. There is also a vehicle version/VIP version available. The RF Power Output is <100 Watt. Weight is >15 kg (without battery), <20 kg in a three battery configuration that will be good for a >2 hour operation time. It is certified for MIL_STD-810.

MBDA ASPIDE 2000, this is a powerful upgraded version of the ASPIDE multi-role missile for use in surface-to-air systems (ground based air defence). It is capable of engaging attacking aircraft before they can release their airborne stand-off rocket propelled missiles and is equipped with an enhanced single stage rocket motor to increase the missile speed, lateral acceleration and effective range by as much as 40% compared to the ASPIDE baseline missile.

MBDA MARTE MK2 is a lightweight anti-ship missile system with a range of >30 km. It offers a comprehensive mission planning capability by waypoint navigation and is suitable for littoral operations. It is integrated on the Italian Navy AgustaWestland AW101 and also on the Airbus Helicopters NH90.

PAK JF-17 THUNDER jet at display

Pakistan UAV SHANPAR by GIDS (Global Industrial & Defence Solutions), endurance >7h, data link range 250km, height ceiling 17,000ft.

MAGIC-FLOAT, a floating barrier for harbor security. Harbour Offshore Barriers also offer fixed security barriers for naval purposes.

Busy days and high delegations also on day two of IDEAS 2014.

The presentation of the Pakistan Navy.

Optical sensors from China.

Soldier boots – made in Pakistan for Armies round the world.


I/ITSEC 2014: Lockheed Martin Showcases Ambitious Simulation & Training Technology

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Lockheed Martin is demonstrating the latest advancements in simulation and training in booth 1449, featuring next generation training capabilities for air, land, and maritime platforms, including low-risk, affordable solutions:

The Digital Range Training System (DRTS) provides an immersive training environment for all vehicle crews. Training includes ABRAMS, BRADLEY, and STRYKER operations and dismount integration. During training exercises, DRTS provides realistic threat, neutral and friendly simulations. Soldiers’ decisions and movements are captured through audio, video and digital technologies. The system analyzes the exercise and develops an interactive after-action-review with a single click. (Photo: Lockheed Martin

  • The Enhanced Perception and Integrated Control (EPIC) system enables a single, distributed common user interface for cloud-enabled home station training.
  • Under the Digital Range Training System (DRTS) programme, Lockheed Martin is delivering a family of digital ranges that immerse soldiers in realistic live fire training exercises.
  • The Advanced Gunnery Training System (AGTS) is a reliable, flexible and cost-effective system to train warfighters in live fire and precision gunnery, including procedures, basic skills, crew coordination and crew drills.
  • The F-35 Cockpit Demonstrator System provides the basis to discuss advancements in F-35 pilot training compared to legacy platforms.
  • Lockheed Martin’s turnkey training programmes provide integrated, performance-based training solutions delivered as a service.
  • VisualShot is a live fire range control software application that supports rapidly reconfigurable training for small arms to large caliber gunnery ranges.
  • With ultra-wide fields of view, the company’s Augmented and Virtual Reality technologies achieve the fidelity required for immersive training across flight, ground, and maritime domains.

Lockheed Martin’s Augmented and Virtual Reality technologies. (Photo: Lockheed Martin)
Lockheed Martin has taken another step forward in live, virtual and constructive (LVC) training during a flight demonstration at the company’s Aeronautics facility in Fort Worth, TX. Integrating live, virtual and constructive elements is essential to train pilots for complex challenges that simply cannot be replicated in a live environment. It enables the soldier to train as they would in a real-life combat situation – with ground, air and maritime assets fully integrated.

During the flight test, a pilot flying in a live F-16 engaged in a synthetic training exercise with a pilot flying as wingman in a ground-based F-16 simulator. Simulated sensor data sent from the ground into the aircraft provided a shared constructive training scenario for the live and virtual aircraft. The two F-16s cooperated to engage multiple simulated aggressors and defend against simulated ground surface missile threats in real time. “LVC is the future of effective training for operational readiness,” said Jon Rambeau, vice president for Lockheed Martin’s Training and Logistics Solutions business. “As a technology leader, Lockheed Martin is applying innovative solutions to deliver more dynamic training experiences for our customers.”

The company’s Advanced Combat Enhancement System (ACES) programme integrates several technologies for an LVC solution to move data between ground and aircraft sensors, helping pilots train with simulators, computer-generated forces and other aircraft in the same synthetic environment. This demonstration marks the company’s progress towards providing a technical solution that can improve operational readiness while reducing training costs and reliance on airspace or adversary aircraft. Future demonstrations will validate this capability on additional platforms and training scenarios in preparation for integrating LVC into fourth and fifth generation pilot training.

Preparing fourth- and fifth-generation aircraft pilots for the complex challenges and threats on the horizon requires the ability to train virtually on scenarios that can’t be affordably replicated in live environments. Such training requires integrating LVC elements into one realistic combat experience. Lockheed Martin’s ACES utilises several critical technologies for a unique solution to move data between ground and aircraft sensors, helping pilots train with simulators, computer-generated forces and other aircraft in the same environment. The next generation of pilots commanding the world’s most advanced aircraft will rely on LVC for realistic flight training, according to the company. Threats will continue to evolve; the battle space will continue to grow in complexity. Technology innovators like Lockheed Martin are pushing simulation to the cutting edge to meet advanced training needs. With the integration of live, virtual and constructive elements, Lockheed Martin is engineering a better tomorrow to ensure that pilots have the best training to conduct their future missions effectively and safely.

The F-35 full mission simulator is one of the highest fidelity trainers in the F-35 pilot training technology suite, replicating all sensors and weapons deployment. As a first for military aviation, the full mission simulator is being developed in concert with the F-35 platform. The simulator and the aircraft use the same software for cost effectiveness and to provide pilots with training on new capabilities as they are introduced to the fleet. With 360-degree visuals, the full mission simulator presents an immersive environment for initial, transition, refresher, continuation and mission rehearsal training.

The USMC is poised to open the doors of the first dedicated F-35B Pilot Training Center at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort, SC, to train the next generation of pilots flying the F-35 LIGHTNING II. Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501 (VMFAT-501) has begun its planned relocation to the air station from Eglin Air Force Base, FL, to train pilots for the first operational F-35 squadron and the Marines’ military instructor cadre. Serving as the hub for F-35B pilot training, MCAS Beaufort will also host international pilots flying the short takeoff and vertical landing F-35 variant. (Photo: Lockheed Martin)
Lockheed Martin’s Advanced Gunnery Training System (AGTS) prepares soldiers to a level of proficiency that permits rapid transition to the next level: live fire or combat gunnery. A reliable and cost-effective system, the AGTS is a state-of-the-art simulator designed by Lockheed Martin to train individuals, crews and platoons in the skills of precision gunnery. The AGTS provides training on procedures, basic skills, crew coordination and crew drills. Section and platoon members practice target recognition, fire control and distribution while being engaged by targets. The AGTS is available in five configurations:

  • Tabletop trainers which combine a laptop or desktop display with a full fidelity gunner or commander handle and include all of the full fidelity AGTS databases and exercises.
  • Deployable trainers use the same software as the full fidelity AGTS but come packaged in a rugged transit case for field, shipboard and classroom use.
  • Relocatable systems are the full fidelity high quality system packaged into an ISO-shelter and fielded at locations where building space is unavailable.
  • Mobile systems are self-contained relocatable systems mounted on trailers with on-board generators and environmental controls for use in remote locations.
  • Permanent systems support training at armor schools and other facilities.

Lockheed Martin’s Advanced Gunnery Training System (AGTS) (Photo: Lockheed Martin)

I/ITSEC 2014: Barco Exhibits Wide Portfolio of Projectors and Visual Display Systems for S&T

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As a leading supplier of comprehensive, low-risk display systems, Barco provides a full portfolio of easy-to-deploy simulation solutions offering full realism. On booth #2435, visitors can experience Barco's new transportable dome systems for ground, flight and night vision goggles (NVG) training scenarios. Offering the perfect blend of high performance, mobility and economy, the TD-series is available in three configurations and features Barco’s specialised simulation projectors. Also exhibited is the EN-57, Barco’s new ultra short throw, lens on the F50 series. With its throw ratio of 0.3:1 and off axis projection, it significantly reduces the space requirements for any application.

The Barco F50 is one of the world’s first lamp-based single-chip DLP projectors that combines native WQXGA (2,560 x 1,600) and Panorama (2,560 x 1,080) resolution with active 3D stereo and high frame rates. (Photos: Barco)

Barco's wide array of LCoS and DLP simulation projectors, front- and rear-projected domes, collimated display systems, precise auto alignment tools, and a variety of custom screens can be combined into a unique, purpose-built system to achieve training objectives.

Barco's FS35 IR series is one of the world’s highest resolution and brightest LED projector ranges for day, night and IR stimulated simulation. It is available in two models: the 4.1 Megapixel FS35 IR WQXGA (2,560x1,600 pixels) featuring one of the highest resolution NVG stimulated images available, and the FS35 IR WUXGA featuring dual IG input capability for simultaneous RGB + IR imagery thanks to its X-PORT DCC120 image processing system. 

The Barco SEER mini-dome is a complete visualisation system developed for a wide variety of immersive training applications. It is a compact and flexible solution designed to maximize training space. The SEER mini-dome system provides constant eye relief over the entire 240°/270° spherical surface and optimises out-of-window scenes, enabling users to experience full-immersive training. 



On 29 September 2014, Barco announced its agreement to divest its Defence, Aerospace & Training (DAT) division to the aerospace and defense group Esterline. The transition is expected to close within 2015. "While, upon completion of the transaction, this will be a big change, we firmly believe that it is in the best interest of everyone involved," said Dave Scott, General Manager of the DAT division. "The same product offering as today will remain on offer tomorrow, and once under Esterline we will be allowed to invest continuously in upgrading and widening our product portfolio in all our markets."

The decision is part of Barco’s long-term strategy to strengthen its core activities and streamline its business portfolio. Furthermore, under the care of its new parent company, the DAT division will enjoy a broader presence on its worldwide markets as well as greater opportunities to serve and expand its customer base. According to the company, the DAT division remains committed as ever, and maybe even more under a more dedicated parent, to the markets of Air Traffic Control, Training and Simulation, next to Defense and Avionics.  

I/ITSEC 2014: Boeing Offering Complete Training Suites

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Bob Gower, Vice President of Boeing's Training Systems and Government Service (exhibiting at booth #1700) provided an update on numerous Boeing training activities, including progress on I-LVC, Constant Resolution Visual System, and more at a media roundtable yesterday.

Two military aircraft produced by Boeing – the F-15E EAGLE and the F/A-18E Super HORNET – now are equipped to train in an environment that puts them at odds against real aircraft and computer-generated enemy threats at the same time. This technology can provide aircrews with a complex virtual strike environment in which to train, while potentially decreasing the number of real aircraft and other assets to practice against. Generally, an actual combat aircraft (live) is networked with ground-based simulation computers (virtual) that provide computer-generated threats (constructive). Before this new capability, pilots could practice using flight simulators on the ground, but when they trained in the actual aircraft, other people were needed to play the role of an opponent, commonly referred to as a “red” or adversary team. 

Boeing continues to set new standards while reducing lifecycle costs in training with its Constant Resolution Visual System (CRVS). It is the centerpiece of a complete training suite, providing 360° of immersive, low-cost and highly effective training. Boeing's CRVS provides the soldier with constant target visibility throughout the entire field of vision, with a low-risk growth path to 20/20 acuity and is compatible with a wide array of fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft. CRVS uses one-third to one-half the number of projectors of other approaches and provides unparalleled realism that gives pilots a more intense training experience than ever before.

Boeing has been developing the CRVS as a company-funded project for several years. Its applications include fast-jet, rotorcraft and ground-based training, as well as visualisations for presentations, virtual prototyping and analysis. CRVS is now production ready for a very broad market base. (Photo: Boeing)


Pilots and mission crew members operating the new P-8A POSEIDON aircraft are mastering their skills on Boeing training technology at a new state-of-the-art training facility at Naval Air Station, Jacksonville, FL. The training facility includes a full-visual operational flight trainer that simulates the flight deck of the P-8A, as well as a weapons trainer for mission crew training. All of the technology prepares pilots and mission crew members to operate the best anti-surface and anti-submarine capabilities provided by the P-8A.

Boeing is a premier provider of Logistics Information Management Systems and Simulations & Training Solutions for the US military, civil government and private sector. Boeing delivers strategic to tactical level products and services, as well as field engineering services for a host of systems including the US Army's Battle Command Sustainment Support System (BCS3) Total Logistics Support programme. Through BCS3, Boeing delivers software, field services, 24/7 help-desk support and training that provides information via web services. As a result, commanders and soldiers in Iraq, Kuwait, Afghanistan, Europe, and the US have increased situational awareness on the battlefield for safety and mission success.

For more information, please see MILITARY TECHNOLOGY 12/2014, available at I/ITSEC 2014 on booth #773.

I/ITSEC 2014: CAE's Innovative Modelling and Simulation-Based Solutions

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CAE’s vision is to be the partner of choice for customers operating in complex, mission-critical environments by providing some of the most innovative modelling and simulation-based solutions that help enhance safety, improve efficiency, maintain readiness and solve challenging problems. CAE is a world-class training systems integrator that offers comprehensive training centres, training services and simulation products across the air, land, sea, public safety and healthcare domains. At I/ITSEC, CAE’s exhibit (booth #1734) highlights simulation-based solutions, capabilities and technologies that address each of these market segments. Demonstrations include:

  • CAE MEDALLION-6000 image generator for rotary-wing training and mission rehearsal;
  • Common Database (CDB) for high-performance synthetic environments, including demonstration of the Common Terrain Generation Service for the U.S. DoD Joint Staff (J7);
  • Modelling, simulation and visualisation for public safety and emergency management;
  • CAESAR trauma patient simulator;
  • Naval training solutions video.


Using specially designed sensor post processor modules within its CAE MEDALLION-6000 image generator, CAE offers fidelity in sensor simulation. Large area synthetic environments are fully correlated to the out- the- window view and rendered as thermal environments or for night vision, supporting the exacting requirements of special mission training exercises in low visibility conditions. Symbology and tracker functions customized to represent the features of the specific vehicle being simulated are supported. (Graphics/Screenshots, and Photos: CAE)

The latest generation CAE MEDALLION-6000 image generator is combined with Barco’s SIM 10 projector in a demonstration highlighting CAE’s immersive, realistic visual solution for rotary-wing training. The demonstration shows content-rich scenes from a common database (CDB) that includes a mix of mountainous and coastal areas along with high density industrial and urban areas. It highlights the outstanding run-time performance of CAE MEDALLION image generator features such as dynamic run-time shadows, the ability to modify the CDB at run-time, 3D weather, weapon effects, rotor downwash, 3D oceans, and more. High-fidelity aircraft models such as the MH-60R SEAHAWK, CH-47 CHINOOK, MH-60 BLACK HAWK, NH90, and CH-149 CORMORANT, as well as other entities such as naval vessels and life forms will be the main participants in a mission scenario showing a joint, multi-national allied force conducting an extraction operation.

CAE MEDALLION-6000 image generator.


Governments and defence forces are increasingly looking to high performance synthetic environments to accomplish more of their training, mission rehearsal and decision support requirements. CAE is providing critical technology, standards and expertise to produce a Common Terrain Generation Service for the US Department of Defense (DoD) Joint Force Development (J7) staff. The Joint Staff’s Common Terrain Generation Service heavily utilises open simulation data standards and geospatial web mapping services to share and distribute simulation and geospatial data. The Common Database (CDB) -- a shared, open and public database specification originally developed by CAE for the US Special Operations Command -- is used as the underlying curated source data repository. At I/ITSEC 2014, CAE demonstrates the J7’s Common Terrain Generation Service by visualising and editing a CDB over the internet using OGC web standards. CAE highlights how the CDB supports OGC standards to provide the capability to rapidly discover, transform, and stream geospatial data from standard Internet sources to mobile platforms such as an iPad or smartphone.

CAE has developed a new approach and architecture for database publication called the common database (CDB). The CDB is an open, standard database that defines a single synthetic representation of the world, and all simulation systems use the same database – the CDB. The CDB is used as a run-time data repository from which the various simulation clients simultaneously retrieve relevant information to perform their respective run-time simulation tasks. The bottom line result is that with the CDB, the creation, modification and correlation of run-time databases can take minutes or hours instead of days, weeks or months. Just as importantly, these changes can be made very rapidly using the latest intelligence and source data available.


Modelling, simulation, and visualisation (MS&V) solutions are ideal for any organization needing to analyse, prepare, train and then make decisions in mission-critical environments where’s there is a high consequence of failure. CAE’s comprehensive suite of MS&V solutions can help commanders and emergency management personnel use environmental modelling to create an interactive, what-you-see-is-what-you-get 2D/3D virtual environment where threat models for flooding, landslides, tsunamis and other potential catastrophic events are displayed and dynamically updated in real time. CAE’s MS&V framework includes software tools designed for emergency managers to perform “what if analyses” and help forecast the impacts of environmental threats in a 2D and 3D virtual environment. CAE’s MS&V technologies include dynamically disrupted simulated traffic networks that alter traffic behaviours based on the assessments of environmental threats. The 3D virtual environment also represents a cutting-edge approach to viewing environmental threats in a strategic (2D) and tactical (3D) visualization. At I/ITSEC 2014, CAE demonstrates its MS&V software framework and tools that help deliver the capability to dynamically predict landslide and flooding threats based on simulated data feeds, as well as assess the impacts to traffic simulations.

Built for trauma, disaster response and combat casualty care, CAESAR is the most rugged patient simulator available today. With life-sized realism and modelled physiology, CAESAR offers clinical accuracy for basic to advanced point-of-injury training. CAESAR is built for durability in harsh climates and terrains, and he is water-resistant for decontamination procedures. He has full articulation of back, shoulder, elbows, forearms and wrists for positioning. With nearly 2l of blood on board, CAESAR can present dramatic bleeding from up to six “different” sites, including two simultaneously, and produce automatic physiological responses to tourniquet application.
CAE REPLAY is a flexible system for debriefing to help improve patient safety and outcomes. During I/ITSEC, one can watch a demonstration of CAE REPLAY, which is CAE’s streamlined audiovisual solution for debrief. CAE REPLAY is easy to learn, quick to install and highly searchable by room, patient, medical event, and more.

Exceptionally rugged, incredibly tough, Caesar lets you simulate extreme scenarios for trauma patient care. Military and first responders can perform water-based decontamination operations and perfect high-angle rescue operations. Furthermore, Caesar prepares medics for the most extreme situations with a 1.4L on-board blood tank capacity and six bleeding ports.


CAE is applying its training systems integration expertise and capabilities to help naval forces increasingly leverage simulation-based training. At I/ITSEC, CAE highlights its integrated training solutions for naval forces.

CAE’s Augmented Visionics System (AVS), Volume-based Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (VISR) and Magnetic Anomaly Detection Extended Role (MAD-XR) are part of a new line of products developed by CAE with internal R&D funding, applying modelling and simulation technology to the benefit of the operational community. These products integrate the core technologies of CAE’s image generation and common database to provide Commanders with valuable information, updated in real-time, significantly improving efficiency and safety of personnel and equipment.


For more information, please see MILITARY TECHNOLOGY 12/2014, available at I/ITSEC 2014 on booth #773.

I/ITSEC 2014: Rheinmetall Successfully Carries Out Factory Acceptance of Airbus A400M Cargo Hold Crew Training Simulator

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Rheinmetall has successfully conducted factory acceptance of the cargo hold crew training simulator for the Bundeswehr’s A400M military transport aircraft. One of the most advanced systems of its kind, the Cargo Hold Trainer Enhanced (CHT-E) is specifically designed for training loadmasters and ground personnel. By mid 2015, it should be installed at the 62nd Air Transport Squadron base in Wunstorf.

The configuration earmarked for the Bundeswehr is called the CHT-E Device 4, and represents the highest expansion stage of the system. The CHT-E is a subproject of the SimA400M programme. This currently encompasses three CHT-E systems and three Load Master Working Station Trainers (LMWST). Procurement of additional simulators is planned. (Photo: Rheinmetall)
The CHT-E is a life-size replica of the A400M cargo hold, featuring the operator interfaces, control stations and other equipment, all true to the original. It also includes an instructor operating station, which can be used for controlling and evaluating exercises. This makes the system suitable for initial and advanced training as well as refresher courses and operational drills. It can also be used for safely practising difficult manoeuvres such as airdrop procedures.

The principal purpose of the CHT-E is to enable realistic training of cargo hold crews and ground personnel without having to use the original equipment. This includes mission-specific reconfiguration of the cargo hold, cargo preparation, loading and unloading operations as well as standard and emergency operating procedures both in flight and on the ground.

Rheinmetall is not only supplying the Bundeswehr: The first CHT-E has been in operation at the Airbus Military International Training Centre (ITC) in Seville, Spain since 12 September 2013. This system is also configured in the highest fidelity level (CHT-E Device 4).

Along with the CHT-E, Rheinmetall also supplies A400M training equipment known as the LMWST. The first LMWST to be delivered has been in operation at the ITC in Seville since November 2012, and the second at the French A400M National Training Centre in Orléans since September 2013. Another LMWST has been in operation since summer 2014 at the Royal Air Force National Training Centre in Brize Norton. Moreover, the Royal Air Force is due to receive a CHT-E in 2016.

I/ITSEC 2014: Meggitt Training Systems Reaffirmed as the Supplier of the US Army’s Next Generation Virtual Small Arms Trainer EST II

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Meggitt Training Systems has been reaffirmed as the supplier of the US Army’s next generation virtual small arms trainer EST (Engagement Skills Trainer) II (with FATS®M100), in the $99 million contract announced on 18 June 2014. The five-year IDIQ contract from the US Army PEO STRI covers 1,000-plus new and upgraded systems and simulated weapons for US Army facilities worldwide. 

This award confirmation enables us to move forward, providing the US Army with a truly modern, state-of-the-art training solution,” explained Ronald Vadas, President of Meggitt Training Systems. “EST II arms our soldiers with advanced tools, allowing instructors to deliver efficient training for military challenges today and well into the future.” First deliveries are expected from December 2015.


For more information, please see MILITARY TECHNOLOGY 12/2014, available at I/ITSEC 2014 on booth #773.

I/ITSEC 2014: Saab Provides Finnish Combat Training Systems

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Earlier in 2014, Saab Training & Simulation has received an order from the Finnish Defence Force for Combat Training Systems that will supply regiments. The order also includes support for seven years starting 2014. The value of the order amounts to approximately SEK360 million.

The Finnish Defence Force has once again chosen Saab as its partner,” said Henrik Höjer, Vice President Training & Simulation, Saab.The Finnish Army uses Saabs systems since more than ten years and has always been a competent user. This order strengthens our position as one of the world’s leading suppliers of combat training centres.”

The contract comprises the Finnish Army with anti-tank simulators, vehicles simulators and systems for MOUT. The simulators include the new laser standard OSAG 2. The contract also includes Mid Life Upgrade of the finish combat training centre, KASI system. The new regimental system and the KASI system will be used together in a battalion exercises.

Saab's Combat Training Systems are an important part of the military training in USA, UK, Sweden, the Netherlands, Norway, Finland, Slovenia, and Italy. 


For more information, please see MILITARY TECHNOLOGY 12/2014, available at I/ITSEC 2014 on booth #773.

I/ITSEC 2014: Rheinmetall Details Naval Simulation & Training Projects

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The complexity of modern naval systems and a wide spectrum of missions require well-trained seamen especially in critical situations. Naval operations in unknown environments and continually changing combat situations make extensive ‘train-as-you-fight’ training more important than ever before. The business unit Simulation & Training of Rheinmetall Defence Electronics (RDE), a recognised world leader in military simulation & training systems, offers a variety of solutions for the naval customer, ranging from procedural to tactical trainers.

The Periscope Simulator (PESI) pictured here at the Undersea Defence Technology (UDT) Exhibition Hamburg provides high-fidelity realistic 3D imagery of the naval combat environment to a mock-up/real periscope. (Photo: Rheinmetall)

Gateways to Mission-Oriented Submarine Training

For comprehensive training of submarine crews, Rheinmetall developed two key systems, the Submarine Combat Team Trainer (SCTT) and the Submarine Control Simulator (SCS). Two other products are the Periscope Simulator (PESI), which delivers actual periscope operation experience and allows training in various naval combat environments versus various target types, and the Submarine Control Simulation (SCS). The latter is a modular and scalable approach for all systems and sub-systems, enabling trainees a step-by-step selection and subsequent expansion of the submarine control simulator and its main system segments like the Cabin (CAB) layout and the Motion System (MOT).

RDE was selected by numerous international Navies to provide trainer simulators for many classes of conventional submarines. The company’s SCTT delivered to the Republic of Korea Navy prepares submarine CIC team members for their duties with the help of simulated combat situations and environment scenarios. The SCTT has been designed to simulate and replicate sonar multi-sensor system and torpedo weapon control procedures by simulation of real systems, including radar, EW, communications as well as periscope simulation. This also includes coastlines and target ships. All relevant information is generated with detailed accuracy. It provides a simulated exercise area with a size of up to 10,000sqnm, including all conceivable scenarios of EW and the use of torpedo weapons and the associated guidance methodologies. Outside the mock-up of the CIC, other trainees present in the auditorium can keep track of the exercises, Volkhard Meyer, Vice President, Sales Maritime and Process Simulation, at Rheinmetall explained. Exercise recording can cover up to four hours. The auditorium contains slave displays of the CIC as well as briefing and debriefing and instructor consoles.

Rheinmetall has delivered or will supply the SCTT to a number of international customers, including Italy, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, and Thailand. As said by Christian Grube, Vice President and Head of Engineering, Marine Simulation, four submarine simulators have already been delivered to the Republic of Singapore Navy for the training of ARCHER-class (A17) crews. This package also includes a passive sonar trainer.

Toward Total Ship/Boat Training

Naval training goes high-tech in response to longer deployments and budgetary restraints. Reduced manning levels on modern surface warships mean individual crew members have multiple roles and tasks. Whilst a warship remains in its operational area, crew exchanges require a number of additional crews on land that must have follow-on training and practical preparation before deployment aboard. As a consequence, additional training slots are required. Training capabilities must therefore be fully independent of the ship and other training hardware. More complex knowledge must be absorbed than on current ships.

Procedural training plays a key role within this scheme; with navigation simulators providing synthetic navigation data to the combat system in place of the actual own ship navigation equipment. Shore-based training found in Rheinmetall’s Command Team Trainers includes the training of all levels of naval tactical personnel, providing knowledge and skills for all types of above and below water operations. These are embedded simulators that run on the ship's installed equipment to provide realistic training for the ship's bridge watch team in all aspects of navigation, seamanship, and ship handling as well as navigation planning, watch briefings for port entries and departures, and other planned piloting evolutions. Simulated data are presented at assigned operator mock-ups or on original equipment consoles in the equipment cubicle layer.

Solutions in this category developed by Rheinmetall are available for new-construction and legacy surface ships. The company’s total ship/boat trainer allows training to be carried out with worldwide multi-threat scenarios from subunit to force level. It will be a networked training solution offering range less training on the vessel at sea. The entire crew or complete tasks force can be trained in various scenarios against live and high-fidelity virtual forces. For this purpose, the training scenario will be integrated into the ship’s integral combat system, creating a hybrid training picture, with the training solution offering full interoperability with other naval training facilities plus naval helicopters.

Rheinmetall also developed ANSE (Advanced Naval Synthetic Environment), which is described as a “key to networked naval performance.” It is an advanced tactical and procedural warfare training system covering multi-threat scenarios including ASW, AAW, EW, counter-terrorism operations, littoral warfare, and more. ANSE functions as the naval scenario generator for the German Navy's Simulation and Training Environment (SuTBw) project.
Stefan Nitschke

For more information, please see MILITARY TECHNOLOGY 12/2014, available at I/ITSEC 2014 on booth #773.

I/ITSEC 2014: Kongsberg Maritime Launched K-Sim Navigation

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Kongsberg Maritime has unveiled its latest generation ship's bridge simulator, K-Sim Navigation, which meets the requirements of the most demanding navigation training for merchant, offshore and naval vessels. Designed for the future of advanced and integrated simulation training, K-Sim Navigation is based on a new cutting-edge technology platform enabling more realistic training scenarios and enhanced user benefits for both instructors and students.

Kongsberg Maritime recently unveiled K-SIM Navigation, the latest generation ship's bridge simulator. (Graphics: Kongsberg)

K-Sim Navigation features an advanced physical engine and state-of-the-art hydrodynamic modelling, allowing vessels, objects and equipment to behave and interact as in real life. To enhance the realism further, a sophisticated new visual system is included, bringing vessels and objects in all possible weather conditions to life.

The result of these improvements is, according to Terje Heierstad, Global Product Manager, Kongsberg Maritime Simulation: "A fully immersive and optimum quality simulation experience. It's a step change in maritime simulation. The shipping sector doesn't stand still, and neither do we. Using our 40 years of simulation experience, it was our goal to take ship's bridge simulation to the next level."

K-Sim Navigation has been developed with the user experience firmly in focus. In addition to the realistic environment for students, instructors benefit from an award winning instructor system designed to facilitate ease of use. It features an intuitive and modern educational tool utilising a modified ECDIS chart as a starting point with drag & drop function for creating exercises. The instructor system also includes automatic recording and an advanced assessment system for ensuring optimal training and feedback standards.

"Instructors are perhaps the key link in the training value chain, so we wanted to give them the ability to create the most advanced training scenarios, with the utmost efficiency and ease," explains Heierstad. "Flexibility is also crucial, giving instructors the capacity to adjust exercise parameters before and during simulations to provide the best quality training for every individual student."

K-Sim Navigation's flexibility extends to hardware, with a fully scalable range of options available – from a PC based desktop system, through to a full mission bridge simulator. The system, built on the same core technology platform as the market leading K-Sim Offshore simulator, can easily be integrated with other Kongsberg Maritime simulators (including crane, offshore, engine, cargo, ballast and DP) to enable a comprehensive range of training scenarios.

Already approved to DNV GL Class-A standards, K-Sim Navigation allows maritime schools and academies to extend their available portfolio of courses, while in addition, providing them with the controlled environment necessary for undertaking valuable research projects.

"We believe that the new functionality and realism we have developed for K-Sim Navigation is an essential building block for enhancing sea skills and thus providing safe, secure and reliable vessel handling. Which, at the end of the day, is what maritime simulation is all about," concludes Heierstad.


For more information, please see MILITARY TECHNOLOGY 12/2014, especially the Bridge Trainers article, available at I/ITSEC 2014 on booth #773.

I/ITSEC 2014: Airbus, Boeing, and Thales Detail Aussie Pilot Training

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Under the Australian Government’s JP 9000 Phase 7 HATS project, a new joint helicopter training programme for both Army and Navy aircrew will utilise some 15 Airbus Helicopters EC135 T2+ helicopters, along with EC135 flight simulators and a new flight-deck equipped sea-going training vessel. Boeing Defence Australia (BDA) is the prime contractor for the new training system, partnered by Thales Australia which will supply the flight simulators.

Thales will provide three EC135 Reality H Full Flight Simulators (FFS) for the P 9000 Phase 7 HATS project, a new joint helicopter training program for both Army and Navy aircrew will utilise some 15 Airbus Helicopters EC135 T2+ helicopters primed by Boeing Defence Australia (BDA). (Photo: Thales)

Airbus Helicopters is very pleased that the Boeing and Thales team has demonstrated its confidence in our product by selecting the EC135 T2+ as their preferred platform, and we are delighted to be supporting them in the development of a new, modern helicopter aircrew training system for the ADF”, stated Peter Harris, Head of Sales – Australia Pacific. “The selection of the Airbus Helicopters EC135 T2+ twin-engine, glass cockpit, helicopter is an excellent choice of an ideal training platform, along with the Thales full-motion EC135 flight-simulators. The EC135 T2+ can be equipped with a full range of additional mission equipment and is similar to the multi-role and combat helicopters now in service with the ADF. This ensures a smooth transition for student pilots as they graduate from a training environment to Army and Navy frontline squadrons, including those equipped with new-generation Tiger ARH and MRH90 helicopters.”

BDA’s HATS Programme Manager James Heading said the Boeing and Thales team conducted a rigorous evaluation of available twin engine helicopters to identify the aircraft that best met the Commonwealth’s training system goals: “By offering the EC135T2+ to the HATS Program, we are providing a mature and cost effective platform that meets training, technical and safety requirements of the Program and the future needs of the Australian Defence Force.”

Thales will provide three EC135 Reality H Full Flight Simulators (FFS), its high-fidelity mission-orientated training system which is already in service around the world. This modular state-of-the-art simulator provides improved operational efficiency and high-quality training supported by a powerful image generation system, reliable instructor control, and high accuracy motion system.

Chris Jenkins, Thales Australia CEO explained: “We are looking forward to working closely with BDA to deliver these superb simulators and associated equipment.”

Beyond the simulators, Thales will deliver training courseware and services, including ground instructors to train Navy Aviation Warfare Officers and air crew sensor operators. In addition, Thales will supply its Meghas avionics suite for the 15 EC135 aircraft to be provided by Boeing. Thales will also provide the IT infrastructure for the training school.

This contract enhances Thales’s position as a leading provider of high quality training capabilities and services," Jean-Jacques Guittard, Thales Vice President in charge of the Training & Simulation business went on. "These advanced technologies will ensure the next generation of Australian military helicopter pilots has access to some of the best training solutions on the market.”



I/ITSEC 2014: D-Box multi-platform driving simulator unveiled

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“Nothing happens until something moves,” is an Albert Einstein quote that the team at D-Box Technologies, Inc. in Longueuil, Quebec, takes to heart. The company develops state-of-the-art hybrid motion technology solutions – hardware and software – for training and simulation applications, creating kinaesthetic cues and building operator psychomotor reflexes.
That may sound like scientific gobbledygook to some of us. Which is why D-Box has invited visitors to I/ITSEC 2014 in Orlando this week to test drive a live, motion-enabled light armoured vehicle simulator for themselves.

Further demonstrating the trend towards partnerships and collaborative approaches to market opportunities, D-Box partnered with fellow Canadian company VRX Simulators, Ltd., which specialises in custom simulators designed to train operators – such as high performance race car drivers or aviators – to handle the forces exerted on both vehicle and person in intense environments.
Coupling D-Box motion technology with a VRX custom simulator and using the former’s VBS3 plugin, the result is the VBS3 Driving Simulator, which replicates ambient and specific vibrations in vehicular motion – including engines, rotors, ground textures, collisions and weapons effects. The kinaesthetic cues derived from the combination of effects in the simulator engage operators and prepare them for field operations.

Immersive simulations such as the VBS3 Driving Simulator provide trainees with accurate real-time feedback and enhance the utility and effectiveness of training scenarios. But don’t take our word for it: visit D-Box on booth 613 and try it out for yourself!
Tim Mahon

I/ITSEC 2014: Cubic MILES Win in Latvia

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At I/ITSEC 2014 in Orlando onDecember 2, Cubic Defense Applications announced it has won a contract, valued at $1.2 million, for its Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System (MILES) Individual Weapon System (IWS). The contract is a Foreign Military Sales award calling for delivery to the Latvia Army in 2015 and for an initial capability of MILES Tactical Vehicle Systems (TVS) and follow-on logistic support services.


This contract reinforces continued FMS interest in our MILES IWS and TVS equipment. With our technology, Latvia is able to train with the U.S. Army and our allies,” said Dave Schmitz, president of Cubic Defense Applications. “This is the first order of TVS equipment and the first major FMS sale of MILES to Latvia since 2008. We are pleased to supply the Army with the latest advancements in our wireless training solutions, including better training fidelity, improved wireless communications and intuitive interfaces.”

Cubic’s MILES IWS is the U.S. Army’s latest generation tactical engagement simulation system in use today. The system offers more effective training by saving time on setup and calibration so soldiers may spend more time on tactics. MILES IWS requires less time to attach a Small Arms Transmitter (SAT) and align a weapon than previous versions, and maintains alignment during an entire exercise. As a result, soldiers have increased confidence in the tactics they practice during training.
Tim Mahon

I/ITSEC 2014: NVIS Professional Virtual Reality Displays

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NVIS designs and manufactures professional virtual reality products that allow customers to visualise and interact with simulated 3D environments. NVIS' customers develop high-fidelity training and simulation applications that require high-performance visuals, intuitive controls, and customer support. Products include the nVisor SX111 wide field-of-view head-mounted display, featuring dual SXGA displays with 76Hx64V degrees FOV per eye, total of 111 degree FOV; nVisor ST50 Head-Mounted Display, which displays 1280x1024 full color with 50° diagonal field-of-view in see-thru or immersive modes for professional augmented and virtual reality applications, and includes built-in microphone and stereo headphones, as well as dual HDMI interface supports stereopsis via two video inputs; and the nVisor MH60 stereoscopic 1280x1024 24-bit color 60deg helmet compatible display, designed to fit the Gentex HGU-56 flight helmet.

NVIS nVisor MH60


I/ITSEC 2014: ZedaSoft Upgrades USAF Avionics Simulator

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With training of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) ‘pilots’ and operators attracting so much attention in the wake of a wealth of operational experience in Afghanistan, the development of simulators, flight training devices, part task trainers and other training devices for the UAS community continues apace.

ZedaSoft, based in Fort Worth, Texas, has recently been awarded a contract to provide a mission console for Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) for the US Air Force Test Pilot School Avionics Familiarisation Simulator at Edwards Air Force Base in California.

Based on ZedaSoft’s patented Container Based Architecture, the console will provide Test Pilot School students with the ability to observe and learn from the avionics capabilities of UAS/RPA in a ddition to the more traditional manned platforms the simulator already caters for.
Upgrading the simulator will involve provision of a new mission console providing the UAS/RPA sensor operator with up to date infra red visuals slaved to the platform’s onboard sensors and controls (as per the IR image below).

ZedaSoft is using MetaVR’s Virtual Reality Scene Generator (VRSG) to simulate IR sensor and synthetic aperture radar systems in providing this capability to the school.

Tim Mahon

I/ITSEC 2014: wave hello to….waves

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With the widespread implementation of Virtual Battlespace 3 (VBS3) well underway, the reader might be forgiven for assuming that creator Bohemia Interactive Simulations is just sitting back and raking in the cash. Far from it. Enhancements major and minor are a consistent process within the company, according to Head of UK Sales and Operations Jonathan Read.

One of the areas in which the synthetic environment training tool has come in for user criticism in the past, according to Read, is the relatively low quality of the maritime environment compared with the robust and proven nature of the ground environment in which most training actions to date have taken place. Ever ready to take criticism on board and do something about it, however, the engineers at Bohemia got stuck in – and visitors to I/ITSEC 2014 in Orlando on December 1 were treated to a sneak preview of the results.

The previous marine environment was pretty bland and nondescript,” said Read, “and did not easily lend itself to simulating operations such as launching a helicopter or mounting an amphibious landing with the same degree of realism and fidelity as ground troops enjoy in the system.” One of the easiest and fastest ‘fixes’ aimed at improving this has been to provide for simulation of ‘sea states’ – waves to the uninitiated. Easiest because, despite the undoubted difficulty associated with creation and rendering, the inclusion of waves in any scenario immediately helps with the trainee’s ‘suspension of disbelief’. He or she will expect waves and shifting horizons/perspectives to be part of any shipboard operation being simulated – the sight of such out of the bridge window has the effect of drawing the trainee more instinctively into the scenario – it ‘just feels right.’

Fastest? The demonstration being mounted at I/ITSEC took just four weeks to create, according to Read. Whilst he is the first to admit that there is a further six months or so of test, evaluation and improvements to be finalised, that is a pretty remarkable achievement from scratch by any standard. Although there is no motion associated with the changing sea states experienced by the trainees, that isn’t the purpose of a simulation like VBS3 in the first place. “To be frank we have had difficulty engaging with the maritime community in the past, since they had valid criticisms which we are now dealing with. This is quite a step forward and as a new feature in VBS3 it will help us expand the utility and relevance of the system to new sectors of our market,” said Read.

Internally funded and now in a test and evaluation period, VBS3 users can expect to see waves rolling over their virtual horizons some time around the middle of 2015.

Tim Mahon

I/ITSEC 2014: SimCentric Add-Ons and Behaviour Control Featured

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On the Bohemia Interactive Simulations booth at I/ITSEC 2014 is a small but immensely interesting Australian/British company beavering away at providing add-ons and plugins for VBS3 – among other activities.

SimCentric Technologies specialises in providing peripheral but essential software functionality for simulation developers and builders. The company’s activities may be broadly categorised in three segments: simulation development tools (such as VBS2Fusion); specialised simulation based training tools (such as VBS3 Fires and VBS3Strike); and pattern of life generation tools, such as the ‘Ambience’ series being demonstrated at the show.

Dr. Adam Easton, CEO for SimCentric Technologies, says the company is “gradually migrating” to the UK, but that a significant number of its 100+ developers are based in Sri Lanka. It has a five year relationship with Bohemia, which is the company’s exclusive reseller and has a significant track record of success in developing essential add-ons for Bohemia’s VBS suite.

VBSFusion, which is the official Application Programming Interface (API)N for VBS, provides users with direct access to the VBS engine and the ability to develop customised training experiences for the end user. Three years in development, the application of VBSFusion to VBS3 will enhance the training experience for tens of thousands of trainees in scores of countries around the world.

VBS3Strike and VBS3Fires bring an immersive close air support (CAS) and call for fire capability to VBS3. “We have completely overhauled the user interface and now provide a complete solution because of the addition of CAS. What’s more, the CAS functionality can now be controlled by the [artificial intelligence] or the instructor, making the whole system much more flexible,” said Easton.
The more interesting development, however, lies in the series of ‘Ambience’ tools that bring pattern of life into VBS and potentially similar constructs. Exploiting the intelligence derived from pattern of life has been a major operational asset in the conflict in Afghanistan and bringing this functionality to a simulated environment will leverage those operational benefits and lessons learned for a new generation of peacekeepers, as well as opening the doors to markets for other security-related functions such as crowd control, hazardous event management, civil defence, homeland security … the list goes on.

Easy to use, displaying realistic behaviour on the part of the generated entities, seamlessly integrated with VBS, highly optimised, using intelligent terrain processing and above All highly affordable, tools such as Urban Ambience, Traffic Ambience and Crowd Ambience will bring the utility of VBS3 to a whole new level – and to new markets.
Tim Mahon

I/ITSEC 2014: CAE UH-72A Simulator Ready for Training

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CAE chose I/ITSEC 2014 in Orlando to announce on December 2 that its first UH-72A flight training device (FTD) has been accepted for training by the US Army Aviation Center of Excellence at Fort Rucker, Alabama, the home of Army aviation. A second FTD is currently under construction and is scheduled for delivery in the middle of 2015.

"This high-quality flight training device was delivered and operational at lightning speed," said Dale Alldredge, UH-72A Acquisition Management Analyst, U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) Capability Management - Lift. "CAE has delivered a training device that will serve new helicopter flight students and instructor pilots much more than we originally anticipated."

Derived from the Eurocopter (now Airbus Helicopter) EC145 multirole helicopter, the UH-72A Lakota replaces the UH-IH Iroquois and OH-58A/C Kiowa. Some 290 helicopters had been delivered to the US armed services as of January this year, with the Army slated to receive a further 20 by the end of the year.

CAE’s subcontract with Airbus Defense & Space called for the company to design, develop and deliver a Level 6 capable FTD, providing an aircraft-specific cockpit with the fidelity and performance of a full flight simulator, minus the motion capability. It features a motion/vibration seat and a wide 200-degree by 70-degree field-of-view display system driven by the next-generation CAE Medallion-6000 image generator to immerse pilots in a high-fidelity synthetic training environment. The UH-72A FTD for the U.S. Army has also been fielded with the CAE-developed Common Database (CDB), enhancing the Army's ability to leverage existing U.S. Government-owned databases to support their helicopter training requirements.

"We are honored to support the Army's UH-72A Lakota flight training that will take place at Ft. Rucker, and particularly pleased we were able to deliver early on an aggressive delivery schedule," said Ray Duquette, President and General Manager, CAE USA. "From contract award to acceptance into service, we delivered this simulator in less than six months and almost three months ahead of schedule. This will help the Army meet a critical training need, and allow the Army to efficiently and cost-effectively begin balancing live and synthetic training for its new UH-72A primary helicopter trainer.”
Tim Mahon
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