Soldiers from 6 Regiment used what is known as adaptive virtual reality training (AVRT) kit to deliver individual training requirement 10.4 (urban basics).
And as well as creating a realistic and responsive environment in which to assess troops – including via a first-person view that enables instructors to see what soldiers see – the tech allowed leaders to get kitted up and teach lessons from inside the system as trainees watched their avatars.
“This digitised system is exactly what we need to be utilising to inspire enthusiasm towards training in the newer generation,” said Sgt John Walker (RLC), the NCO in charge of the package.
“Soldiers enjoyed the experience, and the user scenario playback showed them exactly what they did, or could have done, and inspired increased tactical thinking and awareness.”
Positions of weapon carriage, movement in the urban environment and doorway entry methods were among the topics covered.
AVRT’s full 3D replays also provided detailed feedback for after-action reviews.
“The system allowed personnel to experience an actual urban setting with a variety of buildings, structures and furnished rooms, as opposed to the traditional empty concrete spaces with four walls and a roof that we are accustomed to on exercise,” Sgt Walker added.
“It is not an understatement to say that the training was so immersive users forgot they were in a VR setting.”
To add to the realism, AVRT kit was deployed alongside haptic technology from Teslasuit, manufacturers of a full bodysuit that enables soldiers to experience sensations ranging from light weather effects such as rain, through to simulated bullet strikes.
