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In the rapidly evolving landscape of modern warfare, adaptability, precision, and strategic execution are critical to mission success. To address the complexities of the 21st-century battlefield, the U.S. Army is spearheading a groundbreaking initiative: the Synthetic Training Environment (STE). This cutting-edge platform is redefining military training by offering realistic, immersive, and adaptable simulations that prepare soldiers for multi-echelon, multidomain operations. Harnessing advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and cloud computing, the STE equips soldiers with unparalleled tools to anticipate and overcome the dynamic challenges of modern combat.
Meeting the Challenges of Modern Warfare:
The modern battlefield is increasingly complex, with threats emerging from both state and non-state actors across multiple domains, including land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace. To navigate this evolving landscape effectively, the U.S. Army recognizes the need for a comprehensive and adaptable training approach that spans from individual soldiers to large, collective units.
The Synthetic Training Environment (STE) stands as the cornerstone of this strategy, offering a versatile platform where soldiers can hone essential skills, practice critical mission tasks, and prepare for dynamic, multi-domain operations. In today’s rapidly changing global environment, military readiness is more vital than ever.
With the rise of complex threats and unpredictable operational challenges, the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) faces the critical task of preparing its forces for a diverse range of missions. The STE is a transformative initiative designed to meet these demands, revolutionizing military training and ensuring that U.S. forces are equipped with the readiness, adaptability, and resilience needed to succeed on the modern battlefield.
Embracing Innovation:
As technology evolves at an unprecedented rate, traditional training methods are increasingly inadequate in preparing soldiers for the multifaceted challenges of modern warfare. Recognizing this, the U.S. Army has embarked on a transformative journey with the Synthetic Training Environment (STE), harnessing the power of advanced simulation, virtual reality, and cutting-edge commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) technologies to create dynamic, immersive training environments that closely mirror real-world combat scenarios.
While traditional systems like the Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System (MILES) have long supported force-on-force training, they have significant limitations. MILES, for example, cannot accurately replicate ballistic trajectories, the effects of munitions on impact, or simulate indirect fire such as artillery and mortars. This leaves gaps in training, as only half of the small arms and munitions used by light infantry platoons are represented accurately, and 40% of brigade combat team weapon effects are missing. As Lenny Genna, president of the military training sector at L-3 Harris Technologies, points out, “We’ve been dealing with deployable systems for some time, but with improved computational power and new COTS technologies, we can provide high-fidelity software in a much smaller footprint and reduced cost.” Despite these advances, Genna notes that tactile realism is an area where current technology still falls short.
The STE seeks to overcome these limitations by integrating live, virtual, constructive, and gaming elements into a unified training system. This holistic approach allows soldiers to train in environments that closely mirror the complexities of modern warfare, offering unprecedented levels of realism, adaptability, and scalability. By embracing innovation, the U.S. Army is not only enhancing training effectiveness but also ensuring that soldiers are better prepared for the challenges they will face on the battlefield.
Realistic Simulations:
Imagine a training environment that seamlessly blends live, virtual, constructive, and gaming simulations. That’s the power of the STE. It creates a single, interconnected system where soldiers at all levels – from squad to brigade – can train in the most appropriate domain for the specific scenario.
At the heart of STE lies its ability to create highly realistic simulations of diverse operational environments, from urban settings to rugged terrain. Through advanced graphics, artificial intelligence, and scenario-based training exercises, soldiers can immerse themselves in lifelike scenarios that closely resemble the challenges they may face on the battlefield. This level of realism enables soldiers to hone their decision-making skills, practice mission command, and execute tactics with precision.
“As technology progresses, we are noticing an increase in realism and interaction formats that allow users to experience training almost identically to how they would experience it in real life, with the advantage of being able to stop, pause and reset the training experience,” Reddick says, adding that the possibility to simulate and reset on a constant basis, for a nearly unlimited user base and low cost, is where much of the appetite for VR and AR comes from across both the private and public sectors. “The ability to interact with a training workflow, from start to finish, with the ability to reset that workflow instantly for the next user, or have a group of people play out the experience at the same time and track all their results, is where the value of computer training comes in”, he adds. “We can simulate any military experience and, with our analytics and unique eye tracking technology, even determine how it is effecting the users mentally and physically.”
Key Components of the STE:
The Synthetic Training Environment (STE) represents a revolutionary shift in military training by offering a single, interconnected system that supports training across all levels of command. Whether training individual soldiers or entire Army Service Component Commands (ASCC), the STE provides a unified, synthetic environment that enhances realism and effectiveness in training exercises. By integrating live, virtual, constructive, and gaming elements, the STE enables soldiers to engage in multi-echelon, multidomain operations. This approach allows for extensive repetition and practice, fostering increased proficiency and readiness for the complexities of modern combat.
The STE consists of several key components, each tailored to meet specific training needs, ensuring that soldiers receive immersive and adaptable experiences at every level. At the heart of the system is the Common Synthetic Environment (CSE), which provides a digital, realistic representation of the battlefield, enabling soldiers to train collectively across different echelons. One World Terrain (OWT) takes this a step further by offering a 3D replica of the entire Earth, allowing soldiers to train in virtual environments that mirror real-world locations with remarkable accuracy.
The Reconfigurable Virtual Collective Trainer (RVCT) is another critical component of the STE, offering a mobile platform that allows soldiers and aviators to train together in a virtual space, fostering inter-team coordination and operational readiness. For smaller, more focused training, the Squad Immersive Virtual Trainer (SiVT) utilizes mixed reality to enable squads to rehearse battle drills with their organic weapons, creating a highly immersive and tactical experience.
Additionally, the Virtual Training Interfaces provide various levels of immersion, ranging from basic keyboard-and-mouse setups to fully immersive virtual reality experiences. These interfaces are adaptable to different training needs, ensuring that all soldiers, regardless of their role or experience, can benefit from tailored, effective training solutions.
Together, these components form the backbone of the STE, creating an interconnected, flexible training system capable of meeting the evolving demands of modern military operations.
Global Terrain Capabilities include:
The Global Terrain Capability of the Synthetic Training Environment (STE) represents a leap forward in the realism and adaptability of military training. It provides a digital, global map with access to full 2D, 3D, and parametric information for every terrain feature on Earth, including buildings, structures, interiors, and even subterranean features. This detailed level of terrain fidelity extends to the soldier-level, enabling immersive training on a global scale. The system allows seamless integration of physical training areas with virtual and constructive domains, enabling global-scale exercises that combine real-world and simulated environments. This integration breaks down geographic and operational boundaries, ensuring soldiers can conduct missions and training exercises in any terrain, anywhere on Earth.
The STE leverages a variety of data sources to enhance its terrain capabilities. It reuses existing simulation terrain, such as the Synthetic Environment – Core (SE-CORE) home station databases, and incorporates open-source data along with the Army’s Standard Shareable Geospatial Foundation (SSGF). Additionally, it processes organic terrain data, including drone-captured photogrammetry, to ensure the accuracy and realism of the terrain. One of the key advancements in the STE is its ability to export 3D mesh-based terrain into 2D vector- and raster-based systems, offering a flexible approach to terrain data representation. The goal is to achieve subcentimeter resolution and accuracy in terrain data, ensuring that live-synthetic entity interactions are as realistic as possible in training exercises. This global terrain framework uses authoritative data and innovative techniques like procedural terrain generation and sensor fusion, continually enhancing the quality and fidelity of the terrain to create a dynamic and ever-evolving training environment.
The STE’s applications extend beyond preparing soldiers for combat.
The Synthetic Training Environment (STE) offers a broad range of applications that go far beyond combat preparation. One of its core functions is Mission Command Training, where leaders can practice decision-making in realistic, high-stakes simulated environments. This training ensures that military leaders are well-prepared to handle complex situations on the battlefield, enhancing their ability to make quick, informed decisions under pressure. Additionally, Equipment Familiarization is another critical application of the STE, enabling soldiers to learn and practice operating new weapons systems and advanced equipment in a controlled, virtual setting. This allows for hands-on experience without the risks associated with live training, ensuring readiness before soldiers deploy these systems in real-world scenarios.
Another key advantage of the STE is its role in Interoperability Training, where soldiers from different branches and allied forces can train together. This is essential for fostering effective collaboration and ensuring seamless coordination during multinational operations. By simulating joint exercises, the STE prepares soldiers to work with other military units, enhancing the interoperability and cohesion of global forces.
The Army Futures Command Synthetic Training Environment Cross-Functional Team (STE CFT) plays a crucial role in driving these innovations. Positioned at the intersection of industry, academia, and military expertise, the STE CFT is central to the Army Futures Command’s modernization strategy. By accelerating the development and deployment of advanced training capabilities, the STE CFT ensures that the U.S. Army remains at the cutting edge of military readiness, continually refining and expanding the STE’s capabilities to meet the demands of modern warfare
Virtual Immersive User Interface and Hardware
The Virtual Immersive trainers of the Synthetic Training Environment (STE) are designed to provide a higher level of ‘form, fit, and function’ compared to semi-immersive systems, taking military training to the next level. These interfaces replace the traditional Combined Arms Tactical Trainers (CATT) that are currently in the Army’s inventory. Unlike their bulky predecessors, the STE trainers are low-overhead, reconfigurable, and transportable, making it possible to conduct training anytime and anywhere. Achieving this requires innovative technologies such as Mixed Reality (MR) and Natural User Interfaces (NUI), which facilitate immersive training environments with minimal hardware needs and quick software-based updates. This approach allows for scalable interfaces that support collective training without disrupting the pace of operations, offering realistic visual and haptic feedback for training purposes.
Key capabilities of the STE immersive trainers include software-centric implementation, leveraging rapid advancements in commercial mixed-reality technologies, and delivering realistic training experiences that prevent negative training transfer. With minimal sustainment costs and high scalability, these trainers ensure that soldiers are trained in environments that mirror real-world combat situations. The use of immersive technologies allows for suspension of disbelief, making training feel authentic. These systems provide accurate visual and haptic representations of military tools, including weapons, communications, and survivability technologies, while maintaining natural fields of view and supporting a wide range of tactical trainers for both ground and air simulations.
Ground and Air Immersive Trainers
The STE provides reconfigurable and transportable immersive trainers for both ground and air platform crews, allowing for collective interaction with the Common Synthetic Environment (CSE). For ground operations, the immersive trainer covers multiple roles, from vehicle commanders and gunners to drivers and loaders. Each role is supported by a combination of motion tracking, tactile controls, and multimodal feedback (sight, sound, and touch), which enhances the realism of the training experience. Soldiers interact with digital representations of mission command information system (MCIS) interfaces and the platforms they operate, ensuring they gain hands-on experience with weapons systems, vehicle controls, and communication systems.
For aviation crew training, the STE immersive trainers provide high-fidelity simulations that replicate the full sensory experience of flying, including flight, weapon controls, and non-crewmember operations. Pilot and co-pilot capabilities are reflected through dual flight controls, tactile weapon system interfaces, and high-accuracy feedback from the aircraft’s operational flight program (OFP). Non-rated crew members are trained using specialized interfaces, such as hoist controls for helicopters, and door gun interfaces for utility helicopters. The STE also supports Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) training, offering realistic simulations of unmanned systems, their battlefield effects, and user interactions, facilitating effective collective training.
Central Information System and Technology Integration
At the heart of the STE’s effectiveness is its sophisticated Information System, which integrates cutting-edge technologies to create immersive, multi-domain operational environments. Powered by high-resolution graphics and 3D imagery, the system simulates the complexities of modern warfare, providing soldiers with realistic training scenarios. Brig. Gen. William R. Glaser, director of the STE CFT, underscores the importance of rapidly delivering terrain and operational data to enhance realism during reconnaissance, war games, and mission rehearsals. By incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, the STE not only simulates real-world conditions but also collects data on soldier behavior, which is used to refine training and improve operational planning. The seamless integration of these systems with existing Army networks and live training exercises ensures that soldiers, regardless of location, have access to the most advanced training tools available.
Multi-Echelon, Multidomain Battles:
One of the key strengths of STE is its capability to simulate multi-echelon, multidomain battles, where soldiers can engage in complex, large-scale operations across land, air, sea, space, and cyberspace domains. Whether conducting combined arms maneuvers or coordinating joint operations with allied forces, STE provides soldiers with the opportunity to train collaboratively in a virtual environment, enhancing interoperability and readiness for real-world missions.
Mission Command Training:
Effective mission command is essential for military success, requiring leaders to make informed decisions under pressure while effectively communicating and coordinating with their units. STE enables leaders at all levels to practice mission command in realistic scenarios, where they must assess situational awareness, issue orders, and adapt to changing battlefield conditions. By honing their leadership skills in a simulated environment, commanders can better prepare for the complexities of modern warfare.
Benefits of STE:
The benefits of the Synthetic Training Environment (STE) revolutionize traditional training methods by enabling highly scalable, cost-effective, and globally accessible training exercises. Leveraging advanced simulation technologies, the STE provides soldiers with continuous opportunities to refine their skills, evaluate their tactics, and adapt to a range of combat scenarios. Unlike conventional training, which is often limited by resources and geography, STE offers a versatile platform for soldiers worldwide to engage in realistic, high-fidelity training without the logistical challenges or risks of live-fire exercises. This capability ensures that soldiers can train consistently, improving their readiness and performance over time.
The STE offers several key advantages over traditional training methods. Unprecedented realism is a cornerstone of the system, allowing soldiers to immerse themselves in environments ranging from harsh desert landscapes to complex urban terrains. This realism is achieved through detailed visual, auditory, and tactile simulations, providing an experience that closely mirrors real-world combat while mitigating the inherent dangers of live exercises. Moreover, multi-domain training extends beyond the traditional battlefield, incorporating cyber, space, and electronic warfare elements to prepare soldiers for the full spectrum of modern threats. This holistic approach enables comprehensive training that accounts for the diverse challenges of contemporary warfare.
Another significant benefit of the STE is its ability to provide repetition and refinement of skills. The system enables soldiers to practice specific scenarios repeatedly, honing their tactics and building muscle memory until they achieve mastery. This continuous practice fosters greater proficiency, ensuring that soldiers are prepared for real-world situations with confidence and precision. Additionally, the STE’s cost-effectiveness makes it a game-changer for military training. By reducing the need for costly live-fire exercises and large-scale field operations, the STE offers a more economical solution for training vast numbers of personnel, freeing up resources for other critical operations.
Furthermore, the STE integrates emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality, ensuring that soldiers stay at the forefront of technological advancements. These technologies not only enhance training realism but also enable the creation of adaptive, dynamic training scenarios that can evolve based on the soldiers’ actions. As a result, the STE provides a comprehensive, forward-thinking approach to military training that prepares soldiers for the complexities of modern combat, while remaining cost-efficient and accessible.
Industry Initiatives
Virtual Sand Table: A New Tool for Military Training
Modern technology has revolutionized military training with the introduction of virtual and mixed-reality (XR) environments. MVRsimulation’s Sand Table, unveiled at the 2023 I/ITSEC event, exemplifies this progress.
This collaborative visualization tool allows military personnel to plan and review missions in a 3D virtual world. Users can interact with a geospecific terrain model, rendered by MVRsimulation’s Virtual Reality Scene Generator (VRSG), using Varjo mixed-reality headsets. VRSG’s extensive terrain database and high-resolution insets provide a realistic training environment. MVRsimulation emphasizes the importance of this detailed imagery, highlighting its role in mission planning and scenario development.
The Sand Table offers several distinct functionalities. Firstly, it facilitates mission planning and rehearsal. Trainees can collaborate with colleagues and instructors to plan missions, visualize the terrain, and refine their strategies before deploying simulators like the DJFT or PTMT.
Secondly, the Sand Table serves as a valuable classroom training tool. Instructors can use it to guide students through mission planning and decision-making exercises. Students can see the consequences of their decisions in real-time and receive immediate feedback. Additionally, other trainees can observe the scenario through projected views from the headsets, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
Finally, the Sand Table enables After-Action Review (AAR). After completing missions in networked simulators, trainees and instructors can review a playback of the scenario, analyze critical moments, and gain valuable insights. The system also tracks trainee eye-gaze data, allowing instructors to assess whether trainees focused on crucial cues throughout the mission.
Beyond training exercises, the Sand Table functions as a real-world mission planning tool. It allows users to rehearse actual mission plans, giving them a clear understanding of how to execute tasks effectively. The system can also be connected with DIS-based software to evaluate the success of mission objectives.
Key Features of the Sand Table
One of the key strengths of the Sand Table is its integration with Varjo XR headsets. These headsets offer real-world pass-through capabilities, allowing users to interact with physical objects and military equipment without removing the headset. This minimizes disruption and enhances immersion in the virtual environment.
Furthermore, the headsets feature eye-tracking technology. This allows instructors to monitor trainee gaze data and ensure they are focusing on relevant aspects of the scenario. Additionally, eye-tracking data from other participants can be integrated into the AAR process, providing a more comprehensive understanding of everyone’s focus during the training exercise.
Each user controls their view within the Sand Table using a Valve Index controller. They can zoom in and out to examine specific entities or gain a top-down view of the entire battlefield. The controllers also provide a virtual pointer for highlighting elements and directing attention to specific locations.
Demonstration Scenario and Future Potential
At the I/ITSEC launch, the Sand Table was networked with DJFT and PTMT simulators. Participants conducted a mission planning exercise in a highly detailed 2cm Yuma terrain model. They then observed the mission unfold in real-time as JTAC trainees executed it using the DJFT. Finally, an AAR was conducted using VRSG’s recording and playback functionalities.
The demonstration scenario involved a JTAC call-for-fire on enemy vehicles and launchers preparing to launch missiles. This scenario mirrored a recent real-world event, further emphasizing the Sand Table’s ability to provide relevant and adaptable training experiences.
MVRsimulation plans to develop a two-headset containerized Sand Table by Q1 2024, enhancing its deployability for field operations. The company believes the Sand Table’s lightweight design and ability to utilize real-world locations and models make it a powerful tool for preparing military personnel for real-world challenges.
Recent Developments in the Synthetic Training Environment (STE)
The U.S. Army’s Synthetic Training Environment (STE) is undergoing significant advancements to enhance its training capabilities. One of the most notable developments is the expansion of One World Terrain (OWT), a digital model that offers a global, detailed terrain representation. This allows soldiers to train in virtual environments that mirror real-world locations, whether in urban settings or remote deserts. The system is backed by cloud-based technology, providing soldiers with access to high-fidelity terrain data and simulations from anywhere in the world, offering exceptional flexibility for training exercises.
Another major innovation is the integration of multi-domain training within the STE, which includes not only traditional combat scenarios but also cyber, space, and electronic warfare. This broadens the scope of training, ensuring that soldiers are prepared for the wide range of threats present in modern warfare. Additionally, the reconfigurable virtual collective trainer and soldier/squad virtual trainers are being upgraded to provide more immersive experiences, allowing soldiers to practice tactical skills in both individual and collective settings.
The STE is also focusing on improving the live-synthetic integration of training. This approach blends real-time soldier actions with virtual simulations, making the training experience more realistic and interactive. These advancements ensure that the STE remains a vital tool for maintaining military readiness, preparing soldiers for the diverse challenges of modern conflict
Looking Ahead
The future of military training is poised for transformation, thanks to the ongoing advancements in the Synthetic Training Environment (STE). As the U.S. Army continues to invest in STE’s development, soldiers will benefit from more realistic, immersive, and comprehensive training experiences that prepare them for the complexities of modern warfare. By embracing cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and immersive simulations, the Army is shaping a future where training is more effective, flexible, and accessible than ever before.
STE’s ability to simulate multi-domain operations—spanning land, air, sea, space, and cyber—ensures that soldiers are equipped to handle a wide array of emerging threats. These technologies will enable soldiers to train in environments that mirror real-world conditions, providing a level of realism that traditional training methods simply cannot match. As these systems evolve, the Army will be able to deliver on-demand, scalable, and high-fidelity training that adapts to the needs of the soldiers, commanders, and units.
Looking ahead, STE will continue to evolve, incorporating even more sophisticated features that reflect the dynamic nature of modern conflict. The future of military readiness depends on these innovations, ensuring that soldiers are always prepared to succeed in any mission, anywhere in the world. The U.S. Army’s commitment to the STE reinforces its strategic goal of maintaining a technologically superior, highly adaptable force that remains prepared for tomorrow’s challenges
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