This article is an overview of the Modelling, Simulation and Training (S&T) industry in the wider European area, including Russia. This article will shed some light on the MS&T sector in Europe, focusing on the military training offered by their Armed Forces, and the organisations beyond them, which provide products and services, both to the domestic market, and to Armed Forces across the world.
S&T is a growing concern in the Armed Forces. The complexity of modern weapons systems and a wide spectrum of missions require well-trained soldiers especially in critical situations. Military operations in unknown territories and continually changing combat situations make extensive “train-as-you-fight” training more important than ever before. This also includes maintenance teams who must keep the great variety of today's complex weapons systems in operational condition.
Furthermore, asymmetric threat scenarios are becoming the norm. These conditions require an extension of the spectrum of S&T to adapt to an increasingly unpredictable combat environment. While available space prevents every S&T training product and service available from being described in detail, this article does, nevertheless, attempt to give the reader as comprehensive an overview as possible regarding the S&T state-of-the-art in Europe.
CK Technology produces video and slide shooting simulation equipment, which can be used in conjunction with either live rounds or with laser shooting systems. CK Technology’s products are in service with a number of European countries. CK Technology’s training products are supplemented by FN Herstal. Unsurprisingly, given its accomplishments vis-à-vis the design of firearms, the firm has also developed weapons training equipment. This includes the company’s Training Outdoor Military (TOM) product, which can be used on live firing ranges.
Barco offers a complete range of products and services for the visualisation market. This includes projectors, but also auto-alignment suite, screens, display management systems and mechanical structures. All Barco systems are designed with SimCAD, Barco’s custom 3D software specifically developed for simulation. The acquisition of Norway-based projectiondesign proved to be successful. Barco’s high-end 3-chip DLP product range was complemented with mid-range 1-chip DLP projectors – resulting in one of the widest portfolios in the market and providing an answer to any projection need. The launch of the ‘Connect’ partner programme clearly shows Barco’s commitment to this market segment, and helped them double sales in this segment year-on-year.
E COM sro has about 120 employees, and produces training equipment for the military, civil and police markets. The company has delivered simulators to the Czech Army, and exported to Germany, Singapore, the UAE, and the USA. In February 2011, it was acquired by Saab.
Metrik Simulation design and build multipurpose training facilities based on the latest advances in neurobiology, stress research, and didactics. At a time, where advanced 3D simulators and synthetic training environments have become standard equipment of any training ground, Metrik Simulation focus on mental pre-programming through strong sensory stimulation.
Noptel systems will measure, monitor and record the whole aiming and shooting process in real time, allowing a full analysis of the shooter's performance. The immediate feedback received from each shot motivates the shooter and helps him to develop his shooting skills. The system transfers the burden of marksmanship fault identification from human instructor to the training system and helps the instructors to train recruits safely and efficiently to become skilled shooters within a short time.
Patria has reached excellent results in the elementary pilot training under contract for the Finnish Air Force (phase I - II training for conscripts, cadets and flight instructors). In the area of advanced military jet pilot training, Patria is giving HAWK simulator training in the Kauhava air base. Together with the Finnish Air Force and the MoD, Patria is developing Kauhava air base to become an advanced international military jet pilot training centre (phase III – IV training). The centre will be open to international customers with ample air space for tactical training and access to the training methods with proven track record.
DCI- NAVFCO, the naval branch of DCI, continues to work with the Libyan Navy , as part of minesweeping training , to work underwater and on hyperbaric medicine for more than 70 future divers. The Libyan Navy, wishing to secure its maritime infrastructure, turned in early 2012 towards DCI- NAVFCO for training providing the same level of skills than the French Navy in the early cleanup actions. This training, which combines both theory and practice in real conditions, began in March 2012 and is spread over several sessions until 2014. It takes place at the school of diving DCI- NAVFCO based in Toulon, as well as the Navy diving school in St Mandrier .
MASA Group is a global company focused on the development of Artificial Intelligence-based modelling & simulation software for the defence, public safety, and other markets. Using MASA’s cutting-edge AI technology, MASA’s products (MASA SWORD and MASA LIFE) combine scalability, adaptability, and low cost of ownership with a strong standards-driven approach to technology. MASA Group is headquartered in France with offices in the USA and in Germany, and a worldwide network of value added resellers.
Thales is a major training services provider delivering training as a service to an international customer base, offering its training services through self-owned training centres and joint-ventures. The Thales approach to military aircraft training is to leverage maximum operational value from its broad experience as provider of real mission systems and aircraft systems. Thales delivers a range of training devices and services for civil and military helicopter training, from computer learning systems and cockpit procedures trainers (CPT) to full mission simulators (FMS). With its partners, Thales supports the Armed Forces with advanced training devices on NH90, TIGER, COUGAR and other military helicopters.
French robotics specialists ECA produce training simulators for piloting mine disposal vehicles.
The French shipbuilder DCNS is known for its surface and subsurface combatants, but it also provides a range of training and simulation tools to assist the instruction of sailors.
A number of French companies also provide training systems and products for land-based applications. For example, EADS (no news of a name change yet) GDI Simulation delivered 800 simulators for the French Army adapted to IFVs, APCs, MBTs, and sniper rifles.
Driving the TIGER combat helicopter project as another key programme in Europe and Australia, Reiser Systemtechnik has designed and manufactured various simulation equipment for the aircraft. Furthermore, the company has designed and manufactured various simulation equipment for the Eurofighter TYPHOON and PC-21.
The four full-mission simulators to be delivered by Helicopter Flight Training Services (HFTS) to the Bundeswehr's NH90 training centres in Bückeberg, Fassberg, and Holzdorf until at least 2022 will be used for comprehensive pilot training. HFTS acts as an industrial consortium comprising CAE Elektronik, Airbus Helicopters, Rheinmetall Defence Electronics, and THALES Deutschland.
Diehl Defence supports the military by supplying its ATLan-AS (Training system for land combat vehicles – Appended Training), a training system that turns any operational land combat system into its own simulator; HECTOR training equipment, a modular and autonomous on-board simulation system for training crews in electronic warfare, employed primarily for training in helicopters, may however also be integrated into military aircraft; and the Flight Profile Recorder (FPR) air combat training system.
To operate from naval ships in all weather conditions, German Navy Sea LYNX helicopters are being fitted out with new operating and display elements. To provide the necessary training on the new elements, ESG Elektroniksystem- und Logistik mbH developed a Cockpit Procedure Trainer (CPT) with touch screen monitors plus two extensive environments powered by STAGE Scenario from the Canadian COTS modeling, simulation, and embedded graphics solutions specialist Presagis. For pilot screenings, tactical training or simulator exercises before real operations directly in the assigned country ESG developed a portable helicopter simulator. Thereby 21 omniSHAPES form a configurable screen around a simulator cockpit. The flexible system can be adjusted according to different helicopter models and through its compact dimensions the assembled simulator can also be transported in freight containers in its entirety. ESG and eyevis present the mobile Helicopter-Sulator at ITEC 2014.
Telespazio VEGA Deutschland (a Finmeccanica/Thales company) owns a unique expertise in simulation-based flight training by using CPTs, technician training for land, maritime, and air vehicles as well as operations training for land and maritime applications. Airbus Helicopter, the main contractor for the German Army's CH-53 helicopter refit, contracted VEGA to develop the CPT for the CH-53GA and to deliver it in two versions, a PC-based mobile CPT and the replicated cockpit that is based on touch-screen technology.
The Virtual Ship Training and Information System (ViSTIS) developed by the ViSTIS team comprising ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), KBR, and Crytek provides one of the first virtual environments where officers and sailors will be able to rehearse all individual, team, and teams of teams-based tasks.
CAE GmbH is considered a leading supplier of integrated training solutions and simulation technology for flight and land applications, and in the provision of training support services for European defence forces. CAE GmbH has a long history of supporting the Bundeswehr and currently provides maintenance and support services for most of the Bundeswehr flight simulators.
With the S&T network delivered by Rheinmetall Defence to the German Army's GÜZ combat training centre, it is possible to train up to 2,600 participants for military operations in urban terrain (MOUT). This also includes 300 weapons systems, 500 vehicles, and 70 command elements. With the equipment, the status, position, and activity of every soldier and vehicle can be tracked via GPS, transmitted via wireless data link, and depicted on a digital situation map.
The GLADIO small arms training system from eSigma Systems is being employed for different training needs ranging from civil law enforcement applications to full military battlefield engagement procedures. Based on its very exact aim point detection, the GLADIO simulator is qualified for sniper and Special Forces training.
Realistic S&T enables land forces to conduct training courses with abstract training aids in virtual environments and to gain knowledge and skills for their employment in real operational scenarios. For one of the German Army's key programmes, the PUMA AIFV, both Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) and Rheinmetall Defence are providing state-of-the-art S&T systems, including EWES and SIAM. The latter making it possible to conduct training scenarios with this new-generation weapon system at any location with minimal preparation time on its own or combined with other weapons systems. Next to this, KMW Training & Simulation’s (T&S) range of products and services covers the design, development, manufacturing and software maintenance of the spectrum of land-based tracked, wheeled and rail vehicles in both the military and commercial market.
szenaris, a company specialised in Computer Based Training (CBT), Web Based Training (WBT), distance learning, virtual worlds (VR), team training systems, and simulation, received a contract from the Bundeswehr to develop classroom installations for the training with the tEODor and PackBot EOD robotic vehicles.
Cost is always a factor. Highly specialised military simulation software is very expensive. In contrast, computer game technology can be brought in off the shelf at minimal costs. Innovative manufacturers like Crytek have now discovered the niche market of military simulation and license either their software engineering environments or individual components. Two examples are the ViSTIS team training system from TKMS and the SAGITTARIUS-Evolution small arms trainer developed by THALES Deutschland, for which Crytek delivered the CryENGINE gaming engine. With this solution, virtual ships and environments look and behave in a realistic manner. Instructors and trainees are represented by lifelike uniformed, ranked avatars, with hair, faces, and natural body shapes.
Theissen Training Systems (TTS) is one of the most significant companies in the live-fire training industry. TTS develops, produces and installs complete training range systems from Small Arms Ranges to extensive CALFEX (Combined Arms Live-Fire Exercise) Ranges.
Selex ES brings together the activities of SELEX Elsag, SELEX Galileo and SELEX Sistemi Integrati to create a unified software, sensors and systems integration business uniquely positioned to address the rapidly changing high technology needs of defence, security, commerce, transportation and civil resilience. In the S&T world, Selex ES provides ATENA, an Advanced Test Environment for Avionics developed to satisfy modern requirements; SELEX Galileo's Concept-to-Capability (C2C) facility is a state-of-the-art synthetic environment resource where integrated sensor solutions can be developed and deployed; an EUROFIGHTER Full Mission System incorporating SELEX Galileo's Instructor and Debriefing Facilities; a TORNADO Full Mission Simulator; and much more, including UAS simulation.
Along with its military training infrastructure, the Netherlands is home to a number of companies involved in the provision of MST equipment and services These include Van Halteren Metaal, which provide howitzer crew trainers for gun crew instruction, and also for battery-level fire missions.
Netherlands-based firms are also involved in the provision of training equipment for Forward Air Controllers: TNO, produces the FACSIM (Forward Air Controller Training Simulator). In service since 1997, FACSIM has been used to train hundreds of student Forward Air Controllers from The Netherlands, Belgium and the US. Artillery delivery simulation is also possible, in addition to different terrain and weather conditions, while exercises can be recorded and played back for debrief.
The Netherlands subsidiary of German engineering conglomerate Siemens has worked with Simtech to provide a number of ground force training systems. These include the KMW LEOPARD I and LEOPARD 2 MBT Tactical Team Training Simulator.
Naval training can also be facilitated using VSTEP’s Ship Simulator Professional software which can replicate a range of vessels including surface combatants like naval frigates. The software can run on desktop PCs using either the Windows-XP or the Vista operating system, and several screens can be used to provide 360° of vision.
re-lion is a leader in intuitive Terrain Database Generation Systems (TDGS), and simulators for immersive Small Unit Training (for MOUT) – one of the most important and very complex aspects of the contemporary soldier curriculum. Creating a 3-D virtual training ground for teams and individuals in any space, re-lion continually evolves its technology and provides a stable and cost-effective platform that requires little or no maintenance. re-lion provides services independently or with larger organisations, such as: The Netherlands MoD, Thales , Boeing , and other undisclosed countries and prime contractors.
Kongsberg Maritime specialises in ship-related electronics including training and simulation systems. The first training simulator from one of the predecessor companies was for an engine room and was made in 1978. Kongsberg Maritime make a range of martitime simulators ranging from full-size ship’s bridge trainers both on- and off-motion, smaller open-plan bridge trainers, engine room simulators and trainers for maritime electronic systems such as the Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS).
Kongsberg has been a supplier of simulators and trainers in the international market for the last three decades. The company has accumulated a unique experience across the complete spectrum of training systems, ranging from small simulators to complex military team trainers. Kongsberg trainers are based on an in-depth understanding of the learning process. Sophisticated pedagogic methods are used to support the instructors, thus ensuring maximum focus on achieving the training objects. Kongsberg has a wide range of world class products within naval and land systems: basic skills trainer, crew trainer, tactical trainer, eLearning/CBT, scalable classrooms, stimulated solutions, embedded training,
projectiondesign, now part of Barco, produces high-end projectors for simulation, medical imaging, scientific visualisation, e cinema and public displays.
PZL Aerospace Industries manufactures various types of simulators and training devices for the air and land forces of Poland and other countries. Simulators have been produced for the MiG 21, PZL 130 ORLIK, Su 22M4, and TS 11 ISKRA. The company together with Obrum manufactured the crew training simulator for the Polish Army PT 91 MBT.
Obrum, (part of PHO, formerly known as Bumar), the Research and Development Centre for Mechanical Devices, is the R&D centre for armoured vehicles in Poland. It has made a number of simulators, training aids and rigs for tanks and other military vehicles, mainly for the Polish Army.
Jakusz offers specialised within its EOD Technicians Training Centre,.including Training courses on land clearance of UXO, and training dedicated for national security services in Poland and abroad.
Tecnobit currently offers a wide range of training solutions for different aeronautical, naval and terrestrial platforms. It develops all levels of simulators, from teaching programmes, trainers, simulations and simulation centres, up to the duel simulators (which are the resources used by the Armed Forces for teaching, instructing, training and evaluating personnel and units). In the future, based on Tecnobit’s own research capability and its desire to meet the needs of its Armed Forces, the company aims to develop combat training centres and the resources required for computer aided exercises.
Pitch Technologies’, part of BAE Systems, products include the Pitch Global Simulation BOOSTER that enables simulations to operate with “federations” of other models and simulations at other locations. Another product is the Pitch Web Services Connector that enables web-based systems to operate with other simulations over wide area networks (WAN).
Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs. Saab Training & Simulation has supported global Armed Forces and Security Agencies with targets, laser simulators, instrumentation training products, and more for more than 30 years.
Stapp EBC has been providing what is considered by many the world’s safest “environmental bullet catchers“ or “bullet collectors” for live fire training across Northern Europe and parts of the USA. The only “EBC” to have received accolades from the US EPA and DOD’s environmental branch, the globally patented Stapp EBC makes live-fire training safe by trapping bullets and their resulting contaminants (lead, copper, zinc, plastic, etc.) behind a thick mat in a bed of granulate
As part of efforts to maximise its training capabilities, the TAF has been attaching top importance to boosting local simulation capabilities and since mid-1990s have been steering the capabilities of the Turkish Defence Industry to for establishing in-country operating and maintenance capability and to contribute to developing indigenous simulator solutions.
Havelsan holds the largest share in Turkish simulation market and mainly focuses on fixed and rotary wing aircraft simulators. Under the HelSim Project for example, Havelsan is working with a total of 45 local and foreign subcontractors and the local content share is amount to 70 per cent. Havelsan has passed n around 40% of the work share to the local subcontractors including Aselsan, TAI, KaleTron Software, IntaSpace Systems, ETA, Gate Electronics, Ayesaş, 2U Informatics Technologies, and MilSoft.
Meteksan Defence is the second leading player in the Turkish simulation market.
In the Turkish simulation market opportunities are also emerging for other private companies such as; STM, MilSoft, Gate Elektronik, Koç Bilgi ve Savunma Teknolojileri (KBST), as well as small and medium size enterprises (SMEs) such as SDT, BITES, C2 Tech and ETC.
Designed and developed by ETA, the Sonar Operator Training Simulator simulates an acoustic environment to provide sonar operators and supervisors with a unique advanced training platform. Also designed and developed by ETA, AN/APS143 Sea Surveillance Radar Simulator system simulates the APS143(V)3 Radar deployed on Turkish Navy’s S–70B SEA HAWK helicopters.
Designed and developed by MilSoft for the TAF, the Joint Electronic Warfare Training System is a computer-based education system in which the basics of Electronic Warfare information is given to the Armed Forces staff in an interactive environment.
Designed and developed by STM, the Vertical Wind Tunnel (VWT) is a closed loop tunnel, used for paratrooper training in free fall conditions for extended periods of time in a safe environment.
The largest UK simulator manufacturing site is the Thales UK facility at Crawley, which used to be the Rediffusion Simulation company before it was acquired first by Hughes and then by the Thales Group.
As well as Thales, UK-based companies which have ready-made simulators include Agusta Westland (helicopter simulators), BAE Systems (military fixed-wing simulators), Equipe (flight simulators) , CAE UK (ex Invertron, AFV simulators), CueSim (flight simulators), Lockheed Martin UK (ex Solartron, land-based simulators), Merlin (re-configurable flight simulators), and XPI (Driver simulators).
The Rockwell Collins facility at Burgess Hill, is the ex SEOS company, specialising in visual display systems. Their Cross-Cockpit Collimated Display is named PANORAMA and has been fitted to many simulators built by other companies. They also produce multiple-projector dome-based systems with fields of view up to the full 360 degrees.
Equipe produce the Generation10 system, Thales produce the ThalesView series, and XPI the Fabriano, P-10 and Tempest systems. XPI used to be the Primary Image company, the initials meaning "ex-Primary Image". Cranfield Aerospace and EDM of Manchester produce motion seats for fighter and helicopter simulators with facilities such as seat and back pressure pads, seat-pan lowering under computed G, vibration cues, and strap tightening and loosening.
The CAE Medium Support Helicopter Aircrew Training Facility (MSHATF) is a private finance initiative (PFI) facility on the RAF base at Benson, South of Oxford. As well as a suite of six Full Flight Simulators (FFS) for CHINOOK, MERLIN and PUMA helicopters, it has internal and external network links (LAN/WAN - Local Area and Wide Area Networks), and a Tactical Control Centre (TCC) for the management of multi-aircraft exercises which include other assets such as attack helicopters, ground attack aircraft, AWACs and so forth.
Although it must be said that the US is the Modelling, S&T capital of the world, the above selective summary of some European activities demonstrates considerable expertise, some in unexpected places.
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| Thales’ SAGITTARIUS Evolution is a small arms trainer that covers all areas of marksmanship training from law enforce¬ment applications, close quarter combat up to full military battlefield engagement training. Using the latest CRYENGINE simulation technology, SAGITTARIUS Evolution provides both virtual and live firing training capability for individual and unit training. SAGITTARIUS Evolution can be linked to other systems and/or additional modules out of the SAGITTARIUS Evolution product line such as the Door Gunner, the Vehicle or the Boat Module. All modules can be provided with motion platforms. (Photo: Thales) |
S&T is a growing concern in the Armed Forces. The complexity of modern weapons systems and a wide spectrum of missions require well-trained soldiers especially in critical situations. Military operations in unknown territories and continually changing combat situations make extensive “train-as-you-fight” training more important than ever before. This also includes maintenance teams who must keep the great variety of today's complex weapons systems in operational condition.
Furthermore, asymmetric threat scenarios are becoming the norm. These conditions require an extension of the spectrum of S&T to adapt to an increasingly unpredictable combat environment. While available space prevents every S&T training product and service available from being described in detail, this article does, nevertheless, attempt to give the reader as comprehensive an overview as possible regarding the S&T state-of-the-art in Europe.
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| RUAG has at I/ITSEC 2013 exhibited Univisual Technologies‘ and Polar Simulation’s WALK MOUSE, giving trainees the ability to walk realistically in a synthetic environment without using a joystick. (Photo: Mönch / DPM) |
Belgium
The training efforts of the Belgian Armed Forces are reinforced by the provision of S&T from several Belgian companies including Leentjens-Boës, which produces the MINIDRA tactical engagement simulator product line that can be used for pistol, sub-machine gun and small rifle instruction. MINIDRA is currently in service with the Belgian land component.CK Technology produces video and slide shooting simulation equipment, which can be used in conjunction with either live rounds or with laser shooting systems. CK Technology’s products are in service with a number of European countries. CK Technology’s training products are supplemented by FN Herstal. Unsurprisingly, given its accomplishments vis-à-vis the design of firearms, the firm has also developed weapons training equipment. This includes the company’s Training Outdoor Military (TOM) product, which can be used on live firing ranges.
Barco offers a complete range of products and services for the visualisation market. This includes projectors, but also auto-alignment suite, screens, display management systems and mechanical structures. All Barco systems are designed with SimCAD, Barco’s custom 3D software specifically developed for simulation. The acquisition of Norway-based projectiondesign proved to be successful. Barco’s high-end 3-chip DLP product range was complemented with mid-range 1-chip DLP projectors – resulting in one of the widest portfolios in the market and providing an answer to any projection need. The launch of the ‘Connect’ partner programme clearly shows Barco’s commitment to this market segment, and helped them double sales in this segment year-on-year.
Czech Republic
Bohemia Interactive Simulations (BISim) announced a strategic partnership with STE for business development and sales in Italy. This consists of an exclusive reseller agreement for STE which is the first of its kind executed by BISim anywhere in the world. They also recently introduced Virtual Battlespace 3 (VBS3). VBS3 offers a significant increase in capability, building on more than 10 years' experience delivering advanced simulation technologies to military organizations all over the world. VBS3 is a consolidated tactical training and mission rehearsal solution, combining flexible terrain and scenario editors, with a high-fidelity virtual environment for networked training and after-action reviews. VBS3 can also be used as an image generator in simulators, and can emulate a wide range of devices and weapon platforms. Its successor, VBS 2 has been the standard for military simulation across the majority of NATO partners for more than five years. VBS3 will be the new standard, as the US Army has selected VBS3 to be the flagship of their Games for Training programme. |
| Czech Army T-72M4 Cz Gunnery Trainer from E-Com, a Saab company. (Photo: Mönch / DPM) |
E COM sro has about 120 employees, and produces training equipment for the military, civil and police markets. The company has delivered simulators to the Czech Army, and exported to Germany, Singapore, the UAE, and the USA. In February 2011, it was acquired by Saab.
Denmark
IFAD produces a number of training-related products, e.g. the IFAD Forward Air Controller Training Solution (IFACTS), a synthetic environment for Close Air Support (CAS) designed to train Forward Air Controllers (FACs) and pilots. Other products include the C-SIM naval tactical trainer, the IRAS radio communications trainer, and a trainer for management of emergency situations.Metrik Simulation design and build multipurpose training facilities based on the latest advances in neurobiology, stress research, and didactics. At a time, where advanced 3D simulators and synthetic training environments have become standard equipment of any training ground, Metrik Simulation focus on mental pre-programming through strong sensory stimulation.
Estonia
ELI Military Simulations make the ALFONS Infantry Weapons Training Simulator, an indoor projection-based system, which presents imagery to soldiers who use laser attachments on their weapons to fire at the simulated targets. Battlefield sound effects are also produced.Finland
Insta Defsec make simulator-based training systems for gunnery and the SIMCORE image generator, now in its "fifth generation" version.Noptel systems will measure, monitor and record the whole aiming and shooting process in real time, allowing a full analysis of the shooter's performance. The immediate feedback received from each shot motivates the shooter and helps him to develop his shooting skills. The system transfers the burden of marksmanship fault identification from human instructor to the training system and helps the instructors to train recruits safely and efficiently to become skilled shooters within a short time.
Patria has reached excellent results in the elementary pilot training under contract for the Finnish Air Force (phase I - II training for conscripts, cadets and flight instructors). In the area of advanced military jet pilot training, Patria is giving HAWK simulator training in the Kauhava air base. Together with the Finnish Air Force and the MoD, Patria is developing Kauhava air base to become an advanced international military jet pilot training centre (phase III – IV training). The centre will be open to international customers with ample air space for tactical training and access to the training methods with proven track record.
France
France’s International Defence Council (DCI) coordinates the export of defence know-how from France to allied countries, often resulting from French defence equipment exports. The organisation notes that it provides: “<I>academic, operational and technical/operational training, as well as technical assistance and consulting services.<P>”DCI- NAVFCO, the naval branch of DCI, continues to work with the Libyan Navy , as part of minesweeping training , to work underwater and on hyperbaric medicine for more than 70 future divers. The Libyan Navy, wishing to secure its maritime infrastructure, turned in early 2012 towards DCI- NAVFCO for training providing the same level of skills than the French Navy in the early cleanup actions. This training, which combines both theory and practice in real conditions, began in March 2012 and is spread over several sessions until 2014. It takes place at the school of diving DCI- NAVFCO based in Toulon, as well as the Navy diving school in St Mandrier .
MASA Group is a global company focused on the development of Artificial Intelligence-based modelling & simulation software for the defence, public safety, and other markets. Using MASA’s cutting-edge AI technology, MASA’s products (MASA SWORD and MASA LIFE) combine scalability, adaptability, and low cost of ownership with a strong standards-driven approach to technology. MASA Group is headquartered in France with offices in the USA and in Germany, and a worldwide network of value added resellers.
Thales is a major training services provider delivering training as a service to an international customer base, offering its training services through self-owned training centres and joint-ventures. The Thales approach to military aircraft training is to leverage maximum operational value from its broad experience as provider of real mission systems and aircraft systems. Thales delivers a range of training devices and services for civil and military helicopter training, from computer learning systems and cockpit procedures trainers (CPT) to full mission simulators (FMS). With its partners, Thales supports the Armed Forces with advanced training devices on NH90, TIGER, COUGAR and other military helicopters.
French robotics specialists ECA produce training simulators for piloting mine disposal vehicles.
The French shipbuilder DCNS is known for its surface and subsurface combatants, but it also provides a range of training and simulation tools to assist the instruction of sailors.
A number of French companies also provide training systems and products for land-based applications. For example, EADS (no news of a name change yet) GDI Simulation delivered 800 simulators for the French Army adapted to IFVs, APCs, MBTs, and sniper rifles.
Germany
Working directly with Eurofighter to manage the ASTA Programme is Eurofighter Simulation Systems (ESS), comprising simulation companies namely STN ATLAS, Indra, CAE, Meteor, and Thales. This team will subcontract the supplier of the visual systems package and will be partner with the Eurofighter Partner Companies (EPC) within an Integrated Project Team (IPT). This IPT will be responsible for integrating Weapon System Software (WSS) and Simulator Specific Software (SSS) to achieve a fully integrated ASTA package. ESS is a joint venture between the main National Simulation Industries in Europe. These Industries are ARGE comprising (Rheinmetall Defence Electronics and CAE) in Germany, Selex ES in Italy, Indra Sistemas in Spain, and Thales Training & Simulation in the UK. |
| CAE was the prime contractor responsible for the development of the German Army’s Night-Time Low-Level Flight Training Facility (NTF), which is Europe’s largest helicopter training facility. CAE designed and manufactured 12 full flight simulators (two UH-1D, two CH-53, and eight EC-135) that are used for basic flight training, as well as training in low level day, night, or instrument flight conditions. The NTF project features CAE’s roll-on/roll-off convertible full mission simulator design, where a common motion base can receive a variety of cockpit modules of different helicopters. All of the simulators can be networked to participate in the same flying exercise or tactical operation. CAE currently provides comprehensive training support services on-site at the German Army Aviation School in Bückeburg. (Photo: CAE) |
Driving the TIGER combat helicopter project as another key programme in Europe and Australia, Reiser Systemtechnik has designed and manufactured various simulation equipment for the aircraft. Furthermore, the company has designed and manufactured various simulation equipment for the Eurofighter TYPHOON and PC-21.
The four full-mission simulators to be delivered by Helicopter Flight Training Services (HFTS) to the Bundeswehr's NH90 training centres in Bückeberg, Fassberg, and Holzdorf until at least 2022 will be used for comprehensive pilot training. HFTS acts as an industrial consortium comprising CAE Elektronik, Airbus Helicopters, Rheinmetall Defence Electronics, and THALES Deutschland.
Diehl Defence supports the military by supplying its ATLan-AS (Training system for land combat vehicles – Appended Training), a training system that turns any operational land combat system into its own simulator; HECTOR training equipment, a modular and autonomous on-board simulation system for training crews in electronic warfare, employed primarily for training in helicopters, may however also be integrated into military aircraft; and the Flight Profile Recorder (FPR) air combat training system.
To operate from naval ships in all weather conditions, German Navy Sea LYNX helicopters are being fitted out with new operating and display elements. To provide the necessary training on the new elements, ESG Elektroniksystem- und Logistik mbH developed a Cockpit Procedure Trainer (CPT) with touch screen monitors plus two extensive environments powered by STAGE Scenario from the Canadian COTS modeling, simulation, and embedded graphics solutions specialist Presagis. For pilot screenings, tactical training or simulator exercises before real operations directly in the assigned country ESG developed a portable helicopter simulator. Thereby 21 omniSHAPES form a configurable screen around a simulator cockpit. The flexible system can be adjusted according to different helicopter models and through its compact dimensions the assembled simulator can also be transported in freight containers in its entirety. ESG and eyevis present the mobile Helicopter-Sulator at ITEC 2014.
Telespazio VEGA Deutschland (a Finmeccanica/Thales company) owns a unique expertise in simulation-based flight training by using CPTs, technician training for land, maritime, and air vehicles as well as operations training for land and maritime applications. Airbus Helicopter, the main contractor for the German Army's CH-53 helicopter refit, contracted VEGA to develop the CPT for the CH-53GA and to deliver it in two versions, a PC-based mobile CPT and the replicated cockpit that is based on touch-screen technology.
The Virtual Ship Training and Information System (ViSTIS) developed by the ViSTIS team comprising ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), KBR, and Crytek provides one of the first virtual environments where officers and sailors will be able to rehearse all individual, team, and teams of teams-based tasks.
CAE GmbH is considered a leading supplier of integrated training solutions and simulation technology for flight and land applications, and in the provision of training support services for European defence forces. CAE GmbH has a long history of supporting the Bundeswehr and currently provides maintenance and support services for most of the Bundeswehr flight simulators.
With the S&T network delivered by Rheinmetall Defence to the German Army's GÜZ combat training centre, it is possible to train up to 2,600 participants for military operations in urban terrain (MOUT). This also includes 300 weapons systems, 500 vehicles, and 70 command elements. With the equipment, the status, position, and activity of every soldier and vehicle can be tracked via GPS, transmitted via wireless data link, and depicted on a digital situation map.
The GLADIO small arms training system from eSigma Systems is being employed for different training needs ranging from civil law enforcement applications to full military battlefield engagement procedures. Based on its very exact aim point detection, the GLADIO simulator is qualified for sniper and Special Forces training.
Realistic S&T enables land forces to conduct training courses with abstract training aids in virtual environments and to gain knowledge and skills for their employment in real operational scenarios. For one of the German Army's key programmes, the PUMA AIFV, both Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) and Rheinmetall Defence are providing state-of-the-art S&T systems, including EWES and SIAM. The latter making it possible to conduct training scenarios with this new-generation weapon system at any location with minimal preparation time on its own or combined with other weapons systems. Next to this, KMW Training & Simulation’s (T&S) range of products and services covers the design, development, manufacturing and software maintenance of the spectrum of land-based tracked, wheeled and rail vehicles in both the military and commercial market.
szenaris, a company specialised in Computer Based Training (CBT), Web Based Training (WBT), distance learning, virtual worlds (VR), team training systems, and simulation, received a contract from the Bundeswehr to develop classroom installations for the training with the tEODor and PackBot EOD robotic vehicles.
Cost is always a factor. Highly specialised military simulation software is very expensive. In contrast, computer game technology can be brought in off the shelf at minimal costs. Innovative manufacturers like Crytek have now discovered the niche market of military simulation and license either their software engineering environments or individual components. Two examples are the ViSTIS team training system from TKMS and the SAGITTARIUS-Evolution small arms trainer developed by THALES Deutschland, for which Crytek delivered the CryENGINE gaming engine. With this solution, virtual ships and environments look and behave in a realistic manner. Instructors and trainees are represented by lifelike uniformed, ranked avatars, with hair, faces, and natural body shapes.
Theissen Training Systems (TTS) is one of the most significant companies in the live-fire training industry. TTS develops, produces and installs complete training range systems from Small Arms Ranges to extensive CALFEX (Combined Arms Live-Fire Exercise) Ranges.
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| 21 eyevis omniSHAPES rear projection cubes, a simulator cockpit with pilot seat, an instrument panel on touch screen basis and control elements (cyclic, collective, pedals) including force feedback as well as an instructor station: That is everything the portable ESG simulator setup needs for authentic helicopter simulations. Thereby the simulator can be configured to resemble different helicopter models in their dynamic behaviour and the respective systems. Thus the switch between light and medium transport helicopter, or a combat helicopter including simulated weapon systems for instance is possible. (Photo: ESG/eyevis) |
Italy
Alenia Aeronautica, part of the Finmeccanica group, has a Simulation Centre in the Corso Marche plant at Turin. This has a number of flight simulators, interactive pilot stations, a synthetic environment, and networking between units.Selex ES brings together the activities of SELEX Elsag, SELEX Galileo and SELEX Sistemi Integrati to create a unified software, sensors and systems integration business uniquely positioned to address the rapidly changing high technology needs of defence, security, commerce, transportation and civil resilience. In the S&T world, Selex ES provides ATENA, an Advanced Test Environment for Avionics developed to satisfy modern requirements; SELEX Galileo's Concept-to-Capability (C2C) facility is a state-of-the-art synthetic environment resource where integrated sensor solutions can be developed and deployed; an EUROFIGHTER Full Mission System incorporating SELEX Galileo's Instructor and Debriefing Facilities; a TORNADO Full Mission Simulator; and much more, including UAS simulation.
The Netherlands
The Netherlands is also home to a number of firms specialising in the provision of ST products and services including Van Halteren Metaal BV, TNO, Siemens Nederland, Maritime Research Institute Netherlands, VSTEP, and re-lion.Along with its military training infrastructure, the Netherlands is home to a number of companies involved in the provision of MST equipment and services These include Van Halteren Metaal, which provide howitzer crew trainers for gun crew instruction, and also for battery-level fire missions.
Netherlands-based firms are also involved in the provision of training equipment for Forward Air Controllers: TNO, produces the FACSIM (Forward Air Controller Training Simulator). In service since 1997, FACSIM has been used to train hundreds of student Forward Air Controllers from The Netherlands, Belgium and the US. Artillery delivery simulation is also possible, in addition to different terrain and weather conditions, while exercises can be recorded and played back for debrief.
The Netherlands subsidiary of German engineering conglomerate Siemens has worked with Simtech to provide a number of ground force training systems. These include the KMW LEOPARD I and LEOPARD 2 MBT Tactical Team Training Simulator.
Naval training can also be facilitated using VSTEP’s Ship Simulator Professional software which can replicate a range of vessels including surface combatants like naval frigates. The software can run on desktop PCs using either the Windows-XP or the Vista operating system, and several screens can be used to provide 360° of vision.
re-lion is a leader in intuitive Terrain Database Generation Systems (TDGS), and simulators for immersive Small Unit Training (for MOUT) – one of the most important and very complex aspects of the contemporary soldier curriculum. Creating a 3-D virtual training ground for teams and individuals in any space, re-lion continually evolves its technology and provides a stable and cost-effective platform that requires little or no maintenance. re-lion provides services independently or with larger organisations, such as: The Netherlands MoD, Thales , Boeing , and other undisclosed countries and prime contractors.
Norway
3D perception has a sales offices in in China, Japan, the UK, and the US; and specialises in visual display from design through installation to in-service support. Design of projector and screen layouts is through company software called nDesignerJ, which allows for optics, eye points, and screen surface.Kongsberg Maritime specialises in ship-related electronics including training and simulation systems. The first training simulator from one of the predecessor companies was for an engine room and was made in 1978. Kongsberg Maritime make a range of martitime simulators ranging from full-size ship’s bridge trainers both on- and off-motion, smaller open-plan bridge trainers, engine room simulators and trainers for maritime electronic systems such as the Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS).
Kongsberg has been a supplier of simulators and trainers in the international market for the last three decades. The company has accumulated a unique experience across the complete spectrum of training systems, ranging from small simulators to complex military team trainers. Kongsberg trainers are based on an in-depth understanding of the learning process. Sophisticated pedagogic methods are used to support the instructors, thus ensuring maximum focus on achieving the training objects. Kongsberg has a wide range of world class products within naval and land systems: basic skills trainer, crew trainer, tactical trainer, eLearning/CBT, scalable classrooms, stimulated solutions, embedded training,
projectiondesign, now part of Barco, produces high-end projectors for simulation, medical imaging, scientific visualisation, e cinema and public displays.
Poland
Jakusz offers specialised within its EOD Technicians Training Centre, including Training courses on land clearance of UXO, IED identification and disposal, environmental hazards associated with de-mil of munitions, and training dedicated for national security services in Poland and abroad.PZL Aerospace Industries manufactures various types of simulators and training devices for the air and land forces of Poland and other countries. Simulators have been produced for the MiG 21, PZL 130 ORLIK, Su 22M4, and TS 11 ISKRA. The company together with Obrum manufactured the crew training simulator for the Polish Army PT 91 MBT.
Obrum, (part of PHO, formerly known as Bumar), the Research and Development Centre for Mechanical Devices, is the R&D centre for armoured vehicles in Poland. It has made a number of simulators, training aids and rigs for tanks and other military vehicles, mainly for the Polish Army.
Jakusz offers specialised within its EOD Technicians Training Centre,.including Training courses on land clearance of UXO, and training dedicated for national security services in Poland and abroad.
Romania
Simultec has been part of Elbit Systems since 2009, and has made simulators for five types of fixed-wing aircraft, four types of helicopters, ground vehicles and ships.Slovak Republic
VR Media - Virtual Reality Media (VRM) specialises in S&T devices for the air and land environments. Flight simulators have been produced for the MiG 21 and MiG 29 fighters, the Mil17 helicopter, L-39 jet training aircraft, and, on the civil side, the Cessna Citation business jet. In the land environment, a turret and gunnery trainer has been produced for the T-72 tank.Spain
Indra’s S&T activities include Computer Based Training (CBT), Flight Navigation Procedures Trainers (FNPT), Flight Training Devices (FTDs), and Full Flight Simulators (FFS). In the land area it produces simulators for training drivers, tank crews, and for small arms.Tecnobit currently offers a wide range of training solutions for different aeronautical, naval and terrestrial platforms. It develops all levels of simulators, from teaching programmes, trainers, simulations and simulation centres, up to the duel simulators (which are the resources used by the Armed Forces for teaching, instructing, training and evaluating personnel and units). In the future, based on Tecnobit’s own research capability and its desire to meet the needs of its Armed Forces, the company aims to develop combat training centres and the resources required for computer aided exercises.
Sweden
MSE Weibull specialises in training and simulation systems for the land environment. Products include an anti-aircraft gun simulator, a single-seat flight training device, the LIMO light mobile target system for field firing ranges, a radar trainer, simulators for the RBS23 and RBS70 missiles, a tank turret trainer and weapon loading trainers.Pitch Technologies’, part of BAE Systems, products include the Pitch Global Simulation BOOSTER that enables simulations to operate with “federations” of other models and simulations at other locations. Another product is the Pitch Web Services Connector that enables web-based systems to operate with other simulations over wide area networks (WAN).
Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs. Saab Training & Simulation has supported global Armed Forces and Security Agencies with targets, laser simulators, instrumentation training products, and more for more than 30 years.
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| With less access to live air assets and increasing demand for professional JTACs and other roles in the Joint Fires capacity, there is a growing need for a cost-effective virtual training solution. Joint Fires Synthetic Trainer (JFIST) by Saab is in use today and provides training to customers in all phases, from basic training to mission rehearsal. (Photo: Saab) |
Stapp EBC has been providing what is considered by many the world’s safest “environmental bullet catchers“ or “bullet collectors” for live fire training across Northern Europe and parts of the USA. The only “EBC” to have received accolades from the US EPA and DOD’s environmental branch, the globally patented Stapp EBC makes live-fire training safe by trapping bullets and their resulting contaminants (lead, copper, zinc, plastic, etc.) behind a thick mat in a bed of granulate
Switzerland
The S&T business unit of RUAG Defence ranks amongst the top providers in the world of live simulation. The company supports the military with virtual simulators for training of drivers, gunners, or complete crews as well as live training systems for realistic combat training in open and urban areas. One such example includes RUAG Defence's GLADIATOR that is a personal harness for realistic live simulation at up to brigade level without deploying live ammunition.Turkey
Under its “Train As You Fight” training doctrine, the Turkish Armed Forces (TAF) have been utilising simulators since the late 1980s. Until the late 1990s, the TAF looked at foreign suppliers to meet its state-of-the-art simulator requirements and various simulation systems for land, air and naval applications were procured from foreign companies such as CAE, STN Atlas, and AAI.As part of efforts to maximise its training capabilities, the TAF has been attaching top importance to boosting local simulation capabilities and since mid-1990s have been steering the capabilities of the Turkish Defence Industry to for establishing in-country operating and maintenance capability and to contribute to developing indigenous simulator solutions.
Havelsan holds the largest share in Turkish simulation market and mainly focuses on fixed and rotary wing aircraft simulators. Under the HelSim Project for example, Havelsan is working with a total of 45 local and foreign subcontractors and the local content share is amount to 70 per cent. Havelsan has passed n around 40% of the work share to the local subcontractors including Aselsan, TAI, KaleTron Software, IntaSpace Systems, ETA, Gate Electronics, Ayesaş, 2U Informatics Technologies, and MilSoft.
Meteksan Defence is the second leading player in the Turkish simulation market.
In the Turkish simulation market opportunities are also emerging for other private companies such as; STM, MilSoft, Gate Elektronik, Koç Bilgi ve Savunma Teknolojileri (KBST), as well as small and medium size enterprises (SMEs) such as SDT, BITES, C2 Tech and ETC.
Designed and developed by ETA, the Sonar Operator Training Simulator simulates an acoustic environment to provide sonar operators and supervisors with a unique advanced training platform. Also designed and developed by ETA, AN/APS143 Sea Surveillance Radar Simulator system simulates the APS143(V)3 Radar deployed on Turkish Navy’s S–70B SEA HAWK helicopters.
Designed and developed by MilSoft for the TAF, the Joint Electronic Warfare Training System is a computer-based education system in which the basics of Electronic Warfare information is given to the Armed Forces staff in an interactive environment.
Designed and developed by STM, the Vertical Wind Tunnel (VWT) is a closed loop tunnel, used for paratrooper training in free fall conditions for extended periods of time in a safe environment.
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| In May 2012, the Canadian government awarded Rheinmetall’s Bremen, Germany-based Simulation and Training division a contract to supply LEOPARD Gunnery Skills Trainer (LGST) and Driver Station Simulators (DSS) under the Canadian LEOPARD 2A4 Simulators and Trainers programme. In addition to the initial eleven plus two simulators, seven more LGSTs have now been ordered in 2013, plus optional loader stations. The simulators will be used to train Canadian tank crews in the operation and tactics of the Leo 2A4 CAN, which has recently been fielded by the Canadian Army. (Photo: Mönch / DPM) |
UK
Looking at the list of exhibitors at the last ITEC and I/ITSEC events, no less than 50+ UK-based organisations were represented. With so many UK S&T organisations it is not possible to go through them all, so this paragraph can only include a few, starting with those that are involved with complete simulators rather than components.The largest UK simulator manufacturing site is the Thales UK facility at Crawley, which used to be the Rediffusion Simulation company before it was acquired first by Hughes and then by the Thales Group.
As well as Thales, UK-based companies which have ready-made simulators include Agusta Westland (helicopter simulators), BAE Systems (military fixed-wing simulators), Equipe (flight simulators) , CAE UK (ex Invertron, AFV simulators), CueSim (flight simulators), Lockheed Martin UK (ex Solartron, land-based simulators), Merlin (re-configurable flight simulators), and XPI (Driver simulators).
The Rockwell Collins facility at Burgess Hill, is the ex SEOS company, specialising in visual display systems. Their Cross-Cockpit Collimated Display is named PANORAMA and has been fitted to many simulators built by other companies. They also produce multiple-projector dome-based systems with fields of view up to the full 360 degrees.
Equipe produce the Generation10 system, Thales produce the ThalesView series, and XPI the Fabriano, P-10 and Tempest systems. XPI used to be the Primary Image company, the initials meaning "ex-Primary Image". Cranfield Aerospace and EDM of Manchester produce motion seats for fighter and helicopter simulators with facilities such as seat and back pressure pads, seat-pan lowering under computed G, vibration cues, and strap tightening and loosening.
The CAE Medium Support Helicopter Aircrew Training Facility (MSHATF) is a private finance initiative (PFI) facility on the RAF base at Benson, South of Oxford. As well as a suite of six Full Flight Simulators (FFS) for CHINOOK, MERLIN and PUMA helicopters, it has internal and external network links (LAN/WAN - Local Area and Wide Area Networks), and a Tactical Control Centre (TCC) for the management of multi-aircraft exercises which include other assets such as attack helicopters, ground attack aircraft, AWACs and so forth.
Although it must be said that the US is the Modelling, S&T capital of the world, the above selective summary of some European activities demonstrates considerable expertise, some in unexpected places.
For more information, please see MILITARY TECHNOLOGY 12/2014, available at I/ITSEC 2014 on booth #773.