State-of-the Art of Immersive Training Technology Marco BIAGINI 1 , - PDF document

IT 2 EC 2020 IT 2 EC Extended Abstract Template Presentation/Panel State-of-the Art of Immersive Training Technology Marco BIAGINI 1 , Stefano CAMBI 2 1 Lt.Col. ITA A, NATO M&S CoE, Rome, Italy 2 Lt.Col. ITA AF, NATO M&S CoE, Rome, Italy Abstract — “The level of complexity in the coalition environment demands a rehearsal framework in pre -deployment training” (US CENTCOM CCJ6 -P). The still valid idea introduced by the former Afghan Mission Network concept for a Training, Staging and Mission networks model, is then exploited by the authors proposing an approach to support the process of training and preparing transitioning forces during the pre-deployment phase adopting Immersive Training Technology. This approach, implemented within a Modelling and Simulation as a Service (MSaaS) training framework, is designed to suit a Future Mission Network (FMN) training environment. The paper illustrates the state-of-the-art of immersive devices coupled with virtual immersive simulators, serious games and virtual worlds making them accessible through a MSaaS platform (OCEAN) to support individual and collective training for Commanders, staff and dismounted soldiers. The framework is suitable to be used to conduct remote distributed training and rapid prototyping activities. Furthermore, it is suitable to be implemented in a Joint Enterprise Information environment like the NATO Training and Education Network (NTEN) fitting the NATO Future Mission Network initiative, and more over the foundation of a fut ure NATO Synthetic Environment” . 1 Introduction 2 Cloud-Based Simulation Training “Train as we partner” is one of the pillars defining pre- Challenges deployment training requirements for NATO [1]. It requires common access to NATO training resources and Main challenges and key factors to provide individual and the achievement of interoperability between personnel collective training solutions for ground forces using virtual from different countries and organizations. This access simulation and immersive devices in a cloud and web- includes sharing resources, experiences and information. based networked environment are: These education and training processes, along with the use - Availability of a new generation of affordable of exercises and new technologies, are the foundations of high fidelity immersive devices; the NATO Connected Force Initiative [2]. Due to wide- - Mature cloud and web-based virtual simulators spread financial constraints, budget cuts are affecting within a M&SaaS business model, enabling at the training and force preparedness and Virtual immersive same time home station training capabilities; simulation is one of the possible solutions to maintain - Ubiquitous Internet, intranet and private force readiness reducing as much as possible live training networks availability to provide fast, secure and exercises. Virtual simulation is now used to replace a reliable web access within a proofed training, significant portion of pilots’ live trainin g sessions. For staging and mission network model. soldiers, high fidelity and high resolution simulators To enable an individual and collective pre-deployment coupled with high definition (HD) immersive interfaces training capability “Train as we partner”, supported by may soon enable most live training objectives to be new generation M&S technology, requires the definition achieved through virtual simulation. Nowadays, virtual of suitable training objectives: augmented and mixed reality simulation and built-in - Command Post (CP) individual and collective serious games applications are enabling development and personnel training, regarding: CP layout and deployment of innovative training solutions at both the systems familiarization; collective training for individual and collective level, like in the US Army Commander and staff focusing on cross Synthetic Training Environment (STE) program [3]. In functional/operational planning teams fact there is an emerging opportunity to utilize innovative collaboration and team building; CP mission immersive Human Computer Interfaces (HCI) and the rehearsal and personnel pre-handover/rotation M&S as a Service (M&SaaS) technology and business tasks and activities. model. Leveraging these technologies to provide M&S - Dismounted soldier and pilot individual and services will help maintain NATO’s forces readiness and collective training, regarding Tactical combat effectiveness in a more efficient and cost-effective Techniques Tactics and Procedures (TTPs). way. The key factor is a cloud-based networked The framework could be also used for CP rapid environment enabling expanded training and increasing prototyping activities and for CD&E activities regarding exercise opportunities. the study, development, test and experimentation of CP immersive decision support tools to support operations.