BAE Systems has teamed with modelling and simulation software house PLEXSYS and augmented-reality specialist Red 6 in an attempt to revolutionise the future of military training.
The agreement – announced at the I/ITSEC 2023 global simulation and training exhibition, which took place in Orlando, Florida, in the week beginning on 27 November 2023 – will explore the integration of Red 6’s augmented-reality headset technology and immersive simulation from PLEXSYS into BAE Systems’ single synthetic training environment.
The companies will use BAE Systems’ Project OdySSEy synthetic military training environment, combined with Red 6’s Advanced Tactical Augmented Reality System (ATARS) and the Advanced Simulation Combat Operations Trainer (ASCOT) from PLEXSYS.
The partnership intends to create an advanced, realistic training environment that will enhance tactical preparedness and decision-making training for students, who will be able to interact with a mixture of live and simulated aircraft being operated by fellow students, allowing them to put theoretical knowledge into practice in a cheaper, safer and more sustainable and secure way.
Sir Stuart Atha, director of training at BAE Systems, was quoted by the company as saying, “This exceptional partnership exploits our combined expertise and opens up huge opportunities to ensure our customers maintain the mission readiness they require to meet the challenges of the future contested battlespace.
“We are already working alongside both PLEXSYS and Red 6 as we rapidly mature capability through Project OdySSEy and integrate technologies on the Hawk: the world’s most proven and trusted advanced jet trainer aircraft. Now we are further leveraging these relationships to push the boundaries of live virtual constructive (LVC) training,” Sir Stuart added. “BAE Systems trains more than 450 pilots every year from air forces across the globe and it is essential we have the right technologies and partnerships to ensure they have the world-class skills needed on the front line.”
Ron Wiegand, CEO of PLEXSYS, was quoted as saying, “PLEXSYS is excited to partner with BAE Systems and Red 6, uniting our advanced simulation capabilities with cutting-edge augmented-reality and synthetic environments.
“The integration of our ASCOT technology into Project OdySSEy represents a leap forward in training realism and effectiveness. This synergy will provide unparalleled training solutions, preparing military forces for the complexities of the future battlespace with an unprecedented level of immersion and interactivity. We are committed to delivering innovative solutions that enhance mission readiness and operational excellence.”
Kevin Fesler, chief revenue officer of Red 6, added, “The partnership developed between these companies creates a powerful synergy in the LVC space that will move synthetic training one step closer to our collective vision to build a military metaverse allowing all warfighters, across all domains to train together in a common augmented-reality battlespace.”
