The virtual reality soldiers of Pennsylvania National Guard
3D NEWS> 3D TECHNOLOGY
The Oculus Rift may transform gaming in the home next year, but similar technology is being used to train soldiers in one of America’s largest National Guards today
This week, the Pennsylvania National Guard unveiled the $500,000 Dismounted Soldier Training System (DSTS) at the Fort Indiantown Gap training center. Developed by Intelligent Decisions Inc. it comprises of sensors attached to various body parts, a virtual reality headset and life-sized/weight weapons.
Up to nine soldiers can be simultaneously immersed in a 3D combat environment where they can train in realistic but safe simulations. The sensors detect physical moment and moving through the scenes is achieved using a joystick toggle.
"This is a really good tool for squad tactics," said Staff Sgt. Matt Williford of the 556th Military Intelligence Co., one of the Guardsmen demonstrating the system on Wednesday. "It's a really good team-building exercise to work on unit tactics, techniques and procedures in a simulated digital world."
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He continued "It feels pretty realistic. You can climb over top of walls and bridges and ladders, and it feels like you're gonna fall in."
DSTS is said to be an upgrade to Bohemia Interactive’s – an interactive, 3D training system launched in 2007. VBS2 was operated on a laptop where now soldiers can experience full immersion.
Capt. Gordon Kinneer, officer in charge of simulations at Ford Indiantown Gap, said: "In this simulator, he is immersed into that virtual environment. As the soldier dons the virtual-reality headset, he actually looks left and looks right, and he can see his squad, he can see his buddies, he can put his hand out and open a door, he can take a knee."
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