U.S. Army Introduces Virtual Reality Simulator to Enhance Counter-IED Training

Strategic Insights -

As Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) Kapisa trained at Camp Atterbury Joint Maneuver Training Center, they became the first PRT to utilize a new virtual reality combat simulator designed to teach soldiers how to deal with improvised explosive devices (IEDs), the leading killer in Afghanistan's contemporary operating environment. The simulator, developed by R.L. Leaders, uses high-definition video and realistic sound and percussion elements to simulate the chaos of a real combat scenario. Soldiers are trained in troop-leading procedures, night training, mobility kills, and medical evacuation reporting, among other skills.

Key Takeaways:

  • The new virtual reality simulator, designed by R.L. Leaders, is the first of its kind to safely simulate an IED blast for soldiers.
  • The simulator trains soldiers on a range of skills, including troop-leading procedures, night training, mobility kills, and medical evacuation reporting.
  • The system uses high-definition video and realistic sound and percussion elements to replicate the conditions of mounted combat, including smoke, noise, poor visibility, confusion, and physically jarring explosions.
  • The simulator provides a digital recording of the training scenario, allowing soldiers to review and improve their performance.
  • PRT Kapisa Commander, Lt. Col. Eric K. Shafa, praised the simulator, stating that it is "more realistic than anything I've seen before."
  • Spc. Darren J. Ganier-Slotterbeck, a civil affairs specialist for PRT Kapisa, emphasized the simulator's realism, stating that it "brought back memories" of his past deployments to Afghanistan.

Statistics:

  • Since 2003, 1st Army East has been responsible for training soldiers deploying through Camp Atterbury.
  • The simulator is estimated to be extremely cost-effective, allowing for the addition of variables to scenarios that would normally require extensive resources.
  • The simulator has been validated by Sgt. 1st Class Jason S. Graning, trainer/mentor assigned to 1st Army East's 4th Cavalry Battalion, who stated that it is "one of the best simulators the Army has put out."

Sources:

  • "Provincial Reconstruction Team Kapisa Trains on New Virtual Reality Simulator." Army.mil. December 16.
  • "Counter-IED Collective and Individual Mounted Training Program." R.L. Leaders.