Meggitt Training Systems was awarded additional delivery orders worth $17.7 million to support the US Army’s Targetry Systems programme with TACOM, the US Army Contracting Command in Warren, MI. This brings Meggitt’s total programme value to US $30.5 million. Under these delivery orders, Meggitt will deliver more than 1,850 stationary and mobile infantry targets; more than 165 mobile and stationary field armoured targets; as well as target controllers and various interfacing devices. Equipment will be delivered and installed within Army bases across the US and Europe. These ranges are designed to develop and improve combat skills used to conduct military exercises, and facilitate participation in actual combat action. The Army Targetry Systems Program (ATS) is used to procure live-fire training ranges installed at various locations throughout the world. Similar systems are in service with forces in the US, South Korea and Europe.
In March 2014, Saab and the UK MoD have signed a three year contract for support and service of the Direct Fire Weapon Effects Simulator System (DFWES), used by the British Army. The order amounts to SEK 220 million. Since 1994, Saab has supplied and operationally supported the DFWES system which is designed to enable live collective Battle Group training in the UK, Canada, and on a smaller scale in Germany. “This new contract, extending the use of the capability, is proof of the strong relationship between Saab and the British Army, and a renewal of our commitment as a highly trusted overall training provider to a leading military customer,” said Henrik Höjer, Vice President Training & Simulation, Saab. DFWES is an appended precision laser based tactical engagement system for vehicles/armour and anti-tank weapons in force-on-force exercises to simulate the effect of weapon engagements that enables realistic and challenging training.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Training Bureau recently unveiled VirTra Systems’ VirTra V-300 technology, which was added to enhance the officer safety-training curriculum. This innovative system is a 300° police firearms training simulator, which immerses a single deputy or multiple deputies in real life scenarios a peace officer could face in the field. As the V-300 system uses real firearms, modified to be filled with compressed carbon dioxide instead of live ammunition, Beretta Defense Technologies (BDT) has teamed up with VirTra. The release of carbon dioxide when the weapons are fired simulates recoiling action, adding a realistic feel to the scenario. It also includes the critical simulation of return fire provided by the THREAT-FIRE device.
Cubic Applications won a contract worth $46.5 million from the USMC Systems Command (MARSYSCOM) to support the USMC Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF) Training Systems Support (MTSS) effort. The MTSS programme provides the functional and technical training services necessary to plan, prepare and execute the USMC’s individual, unit and staff training events. Awarded under the US Navy’s Seaport-e contract, this is a three-year effort focused on providing training support in Marine warfighting skills, command post exercises, battle staff training, mission rehearsal exercises, C4 mobile training, and combat simulation ranging in scope from individual training, up to and including joint and combined staffs.
Airbus Defence & Space (DS) is updating the radar jammer systems used by the Bundeswehr to train radar operators and pilots, i.e. the Bundeswehr is bringing their own capabilities for combating electronic jamming attacks in line with the increasing capabilities offered by new technologies. Airbus DS have already delivered four jammer systems. At GFD, the jammer systems are housed in a pod positioned under the wings of Learjet aircraft. The jammer systems can be integrated into other flying platforms at any time. The multi-frequency jammer systems based on DRFM technology (DRFM = Digital Radio Frequency Memory) simulate electronic jamming attacks, with the help of which, for example, processes can be developed to protect aircraft from radar-guided missile attacks.
aditerna, an IT consultancy focusing on modelling and aimulation (M&S), process and information management tools and Java software development, is showing their Simulation Resource Planning (SRP) software, a new kind of tool, according to the company, designed to support in M&S processes. aditerna is co-hosting Germany's biggest annual workshop on M&S topics together with ITIS and the University of the Bundeswehr in Munich, so they are interested to meet with persons within the global M&S community and to integrate them into their German network.
Cubic Advanced Learning Solutions (CALS), a subsidiary of Cubic , partnered with Applied Research Associates (ARA) and Epic Games, as a new member in the Unreal Government Network (UGN). Cubic licensed Epic Games’ Unreal Engine 3 and 4 from ARA to produce training simulations using the latest gaming technology to create a more realistic training environment. Created by Epic Games, the company says Unreal Engine 4 pushes the limits of virtual training development with leading-edge tools, features and complete C++ source code for developers. The licensing brings CALS expertise in game development and proven technology that will help it extend its portfolio of tools for immersive training simulation and will give it access to new game development tools that push the limits of real-time visualisation for warfighters to train more effectively. CALS plans to use new exploration tools that allow visualisation and contextualisation of designs using the same fluid control and immediate feedback that exist in modern console and PC games.
From command and control (C2) and cyber solutions to aircrew training and intelligence systems, Leidos showcases a range of innovative technologies and capabilities in booth #1012. Products include, CAEN (Computer Attack and Exploitation Network) - a virtual environment used to develop critical cyber skills in the areas of penetration testing, malware reverse engineering and vulnerability research; DASH 8 Aircrew Readiness (DART) - a system designed to demonstrate and train aircrews on the capabilities of the DeHavilland DASH 8 300 type aircraft with a technologically advanced flight deck, and multiple sensor suite payloads; GeoRover Software Products provide powerful tools for Esri ArcGIS for Desktop designed to increase speed, efficiency and productivity in common GIS workflows including one application for Android mobile devices (tablets or phones); and more.
Northrop Grumman has been developing virtual immersive training environments for DoD and commercial customers for years, working with industry leaders in Serious Gaming, 3D rendering and virtual environments. DoD Programme Managers leverage these technologies to immerse soldiers in a virtual environment that closely replicates the actual environment they will experience in operational missions. Northrop Grumman is developing several virtual immersive training initiatives that are applicable to the USSOCOM Virtual Mission Rehearsal requirement and pre-mission training. The Northrop Grumman Virtual Immersive Portable Environment (VIPE Holodeck) provides a high fidelity visualization environment adaptable to any location and capable of being set up in an existing office, a simulation center, or even a tent. The VIPE Holodeck provides a low cost scalable and adaptable visualization simulation and training environment. This solution maximizes training time and helps reduce the overall cost to train. The system can be networked to provide multi-player/multi-user visualization for state-of-the-art gaming, telepresence and simulation. The VIPE Holodeck; provides a state-of-the-art visual environment for use in Live, Virtual, Constructive (LVC) simulations. Current scenarios can run virtually, using 3D goggles/glasses, or even displayed on laptop and desktop screens.
CogniSens produces VR perceptual-cognitive training systems that are currently being used by US Special Operations, the NFL, NBA and NHL for recruitment, performance training and pre- and post-assessment. NeuroTracker is a patented, non-invasive system that uses 3D multiple object tracking to improve the efficiency of the neural networks that govern situational awareness, attention, executive function, and cognitive stamina. The company has clinical evidence of the transferability of NeuroTracker training to enhance elite performance and decision making under pressure. CogniSens' enhanced situational training software, Neurotracker Tactical Awareness (NTTA), combines Neurotracker training with embedded video or still footage of key tactical situations which tests and enhances the ability of a user to make the correct tactical decision while maintaining situational awareness. NTTA is being used by elite military forces and professional athletes to instill automaticity in high pressure environments, and is generally a learning accelerator useful for all training environments. It can easily be combined with and complement existing simulations and learning systems as a low cost performance enhancer and a measurement of learning success. CogniSens is attending ITSEC with a view to establishing collaborations with human performance, training and simulation companies.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has selected FoxGuard’s proposal to build a reconfigurable industrial control systems cyber security simulation test bed. The goal of the test bed system is to measure the performance of industrial control systems that are equipped with cyber security protections, which fall in accordance with best practices and national/international standards and guidelines, such as IEC-62443 and NIST-800-82. The test bed system will imitate a real-world industrial environment, as close as possible, without replicating a plant itself. The system is intended to be reconfigurable, so that different components can be inter-connected in a variety of network configurations. The system will also include several industrial control simulation scenarios, including a well-known, unstable open-loop chemical process scenario called the Tennessee Eastman (TE) Problem.
TrianGraphics is showcasing the latest version of the database generation system Trian3DBuilder at a joint booth with its partner Simthetiq at I/ITSEC 2014 in Orlando, Florida. Trian3DBuilder offers comprehensive features for the generation of geospecific correlated terrains optimized for real-time rendering. With its simple workflow and a concept based on modular construction templates, Trian3DBuilder is a well established terrain-creating tool on today’s simulation market. Flexible licensing options, with the choice for various feature/export upgrades, a short training period and an overall simplified tool chain can help cut costs in everyday production process. TrianGraphics is also providing comprehensive services for generating terrain databases for any application. Using in-house developed tools the engineering team can offer state of the art solutions to fit customers needs.
***
In March 2014, Saab and the UK MoD have signed a three year contract for support and service of the Direct Fire Weapon Effects Simulator System (DFWES), used by the British Army. The order amounts to SEK 220 million. Since 1994, Saab has supplied and operationally supported the DFWES system which is designed to enable live collective Battle Group training in the UK, Canada, and on a smaller scale in Germany. “This new contract, extending the use of the capability, is proof of the strong relationship between Saab and the British Army, and a renewal of our commitment as a highly trusted overall training provider to a leading military customer,” said Henrik Höjer, Vice President Training & Simulation, Saab. DFWES is an appended precision laser based tactical engagement system for vehicles/armour and anti-tank weapons in force-on-force exercises to simulate the effect of weapon engagements that enables realistic and challenging training.
***
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Training Bureau recently unveiled VirTra Systems’ VirTra V-300 technology, which was added to enhance the officer safety-training curriculum. This innovative system is a 300° police firearms training simulator, which immerses a single deputy or multiple deputies in real life scenarios a peace officer could face in the field. As the V-300 system uses real firearms, modified to be filled with compressed carbon dioxide instead of live ammunition, Beretta Defense Technologies (BDT) has teamed up with VirTra. The release of carbon dioxide when the weapons are fired simulates recoiling action, adding a realistic feel to the scenario. It also includes the critical simulation of return fire provided by the THREAT-FIRE device.
***
Cubic Applications won a contract worth $46.5 million from the USMC Systems Command (MARSYSCOM) to support the USMC Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF) Training Systems Support (MTSS) effort. The MTSS programme provides the functional and technical training services necessary to plan, prepare and execute the USMC’s individual, unit and staff training events. Awarded under the US Navy’s Seaport-e contract, this is a three-year effort focused on providing training support in Marine warfighting skills, command post exercises, battle staff training, mission rehearsal exercises, C4 mobile training, and combat simulation ranging in scope from individual training, up to and including joint and combined staffs.
***
Airbus Defence & Space (DS) is updating the radar jammer systems used by the Bundeswehr to train radar operators and pilots, i.e. the Bundeswehr is bringing their own capabilities for combating electronic jamming attacks in line with the increasing capabilities offered by new technologies. Airbus DS have already delivered four jammer systems. At GFD, the jammer systems are housed in a pod positioned under the wings of Learjet aircraft. The jammer systems can be integrated into other flying platforms at any time. The multi-frequency jammer systems based on DRFM technology (DRFM = Digital Radio Frequency Memory) simulate electronic jamming attacks, with the help of which, for example, processes can be developed to protect aircraft from radar-guided missile attacks.
***
aditerna, an IT consultancy focusing on modelling and aimulation (M&S), process and information management tools and Java software development, is showing their Simulation Resource Planning (SRP) software, a new kind of tool, according to the company, designed to support in M&S processes. aditerna is co-hosting Germany's biggest annual workshop on M&S topics together with ITIS and the University of the Bundeswehr in Munich, so they are interested to meet with persons within the global M&S community and to integrate them into their German network.
***
Cubic Advanced Learning Solutions (CALS), a subsidiary of Cubic , partnered with Applied Research Associates (ARA) and Epic Games, as a new member in the Unreal Government Network (UGN). Cubic licensed Epic Games’ Unreal Engine 3 and 4 from ARA to produce training simulations using the latest gaming technology to create a more realistic training environment. Created by Epic Games, the company says Unreal Engine 4 pushes the limits of virtual training development with leading-edge tools, features and complete C++ source code for developers. The licensing brings CALS expertise in game development and proven technology that will help it extend its portfolio of tools for immersive training simulation and will give it access to new game development tools that push the limits of real-time visualisation for warfighters to train more effectively. CALS plans to use new exploration tools that allow visualisation and contextualisation of designs using the same fluid control and immediate feedback that exist in modern console and PC games.
***
From command and control (C2) and cyber solutions to aircrew training and intelligence systems, Leidos showcases a range of innovative technologies and capabilities in booth #1012. Products include, CAEN (Computer Attack and Exploitation Network) - a virtual environment used to develop critical cyber skills in the areas of penetration testing, malware reverse engineering and vulnerability research; DASH 8 Aircrew Readiness (DART) - a system designed to demonstrate and train aircrews on the capabilities of the DeHavilland DASH 8 300 type aircraft with a technologically advanced flight deck, and multiple sensor suite payloads; GeoRover Software Products provide powerful tools for Esri ArcGIS for Desktop designed to increase speed, efficiency and productivity in common GIS workflows including one application for Android mobile devices (tablets or phones); and more.
***
Northrop Grumman has been developing virtual immersive training environments for DoD and commercial customers for years, working with industry leaders in Serious Gaming, 3D rendering and virtual environments. DoD Programme Managers leverage these technologies to immerse soldiers in a virtual environment that closely replicates the actual environment they will experience in operational missions. Northrop Grumman is developing several virtual immersive training initiatives that are applicable to the USSOCOM Virtual Mission Rehearsal requirement and pre-mission training. The Northrop Grumman Virtual Immersive Portable Environment (VIPE Holodeck) provides a high fidelity visualization environment adaptable to any location and capable of being set up in an existing office, a simulation center, or even a tent. The VIPE Holodeck provides a low cost scalable and adaptable visualization simulation and training environment. This solution maximizes training time and helps reduce the overall cost to train. The system can be networked to provide multi-player/multi-user visualization for state-of-the-art gaming, telepresence and simulation. The VIPE Holodeck; provides a state-of-the-art visual environment for use in Live, Virtual, Constructive (LVC) simulations. Current scenarios can run virtually, using 3D goggles/glasses, or even displayed on laptop and desktop screens.
***
CogniSens produces VR perceptual-cognitive training systems that are currently being used by US Special Operations, the NFL, NBA and NHL for recruitment, performance training and pre- and post-assessment. NeuroTracker is a patented, non-invasive system that uses 3D multiple object tracking to improve the efficiency of the neural networks that govern situational awareness, attention, executive function, and cognitive stamina. The company has clinical evidence of the transferability of NeuroTracker training to enhance elite performance and decision making under pressure. CogniSens' enhanced situational training software, Neurotracker Tactical Awareness (NTTA), combines Neurotracker training with embedded video or still footage of key tactical situations which tests and enhances the ability of a user to make the correct tactical decision while maintaining situational awareness. NTTA is being used by elite military forces and professional athletes to instill automaticity in high pressure environments, and is generally a learning accelerator useful for all training environments. It can easily be combined with and complement existing simulations and learning systems as a low cost performance enhancer and a measurement of learning success. CogniSens is attending ITSEC with a view to establishing collaborations with human performance, training and simulation companies.
***
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has selected FoxGuard’s proposal to build a reconfigurable industrial control systems cyber security simulation test bed. The goal of the test bed system is to measure the performance of industrial control systems that are equipped with cyber security protections, which fall in accordance with best practices and national/international standards and guidelines, such as IEC-62443 and NIST-800-82. The test bed system will imitate a real-world industrial environment, as close as possible, without replicating a plant itself. The system is intended to be reconfigurable, so that different components can be inter-connected in a variety of network configurations. The system will also include several industrial control simulation scenarios, including a well-known, unstable open-loop chemical process scenario called the Tennessee Eastman (TE) Problem.
***
TrianGraphics is showcasing the latest version of the database generation system Trian3DBuilder at a joint booth with its partner Simthetiq at I/ITSEC 2014 in Orlando, Florida. Trian3DBuilder offers comprehensive features for the generation of geospecific correlated terrains optimized for real-time rendering. With its simple workflow and a concept based on modular construction templates, Trian3DBuilder is a well established terrain-creating tool on today’s simulation market. Flexible licensing options, with the choice for various feature/export upgrades, a short training period and an overall simplified tool chain can help cut costs in everyday production process. TrianGraphics is also providing comprehensive services for generating terrain databases for any application. Using in-house developed tools the engineering team can offer state of the art solutions to fit customers needs.
***
For more information, please see MILITARY TECHNOLOGY 12/2014, available at I/ITSEC 2014 on booth #773.