With service chiefs repeating calls for soldiers to be up to speed on this skill, the purpose-built suite at the Royal Armoured Corps Training Regiment in Bovington features various UK and Nato platforms, plus those of potential adversaries including Russian vehicles and airframes.
Learning happens via a combination of scale models, tactical table-top methods and interactive displays – including thermal signatures.
Developer Cpl Tom Barraclough (RTR) said the ability to ID friendly and enemy kit was vital to mission success and fighting power.
“I wanted to create a hands-on environment where soldiers could build muscle memory through realistic visual cues,” the junior NCO added.
“Traditional digital simulations and photos often fail to convey the full 3D awareness required in the field.”
The Acorn Suite, as the facility is known, will be updated regularly as equipment develops.
It supports both introductory recognition drills and more advanced training, and is available for any Field Army unit to book.
