The innovative use of distance-learning training materials in virtual reality (VR) spaces, and the opportunities to apply the further dimensions of virtuality (augmented and mixed reality – AR/MR) in military education and training and in tactical procedures

Varga, Tamás (2023) The innovative use of distance-learning training materials in virtual reality (VR) spaces, and the opportunities to apply the further dimensions of virtuality (augmented and mixed reality – AR/MR) in military education and training and in tactical procedures. DEFENCE REVIEW: THE CENTRAL JOURNAL OF THE HUNGARIAN DEFENCE FORCES, 151 (Spec). pp. 100-116. ISSN 2060-1506

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Abstract

The restrictions and regulations aimed at preventing the global spread of the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID) pandemic, which had its outbreak in 2019, have been exerting negative influence – and, in certain areas, positive impacts – on various dimensions of education and training for more than one year now. Despite the heroic cooperation, terrible and painful losses of human life could not be avoided. However, the effects of the restrictions on alternative education and training processes, on the development of individual digital competencies, and on the emergence of the latest technologies are indisputable. Education and training conducted in the form of distance learning are already based on considerable experience, and the examination of training materials, their application methods, and the less explored further opportunities have become a major research area in the last nearly one year. The rapidly developing technological innovations for the use of virtual spaces (the dimensions of virtual, augmented, and mixed reality) still provide unexploited possibilities, not only in the field of education and training, but they may also play an increasingly important role in operational procedures. It is well demonstrated by one of the latest procurement projects of the United States Armed Forces, in which Microsoft Hololens augmented reality-based systems have been purchased in a substantial amount and of high value1 . It must be stated that this “trend” is no longer only US soldiers’ privilege, as a number of similar – though significantly smaller-scale – programmes are run successfully which support the training of certain groups of soldiers2 . For the time being, it means supporting the training of merely certain groups, since – in the framework of the Zrínyi Defence and Military Development Programme – the particular simulation capabilities are enabled and set up parallel to or following the scheduled supplies of the technical equipment. These tools are mainly in garrisons where they are required for capability development, and where the real assets and the operating and supporting staff are located. Up to now, such systems have been set up in the training of air force personnel – simulation systems related to the Airbus H145M helicopters, Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC), helicopter door gunner etc. However, their appearance is expected in the training of land forces – armoured, artillery and infantry as well, in the near future. The drills in military activities and in various tactical procedures are of primary importance so that the combat readiness level of the armed forces can be set and maintained, which is – even in peacetime – exceptionally demanding in terms of financial, material, and technical requirements. It is, therefore, essential to identify training procedures, such as the various simulation systems that enhance the achievement of training objectives and are cost-effective at the same time. In the modern preparation and training system of the armed forces, “the already available cost-reducing digital technical training systems will play an important part. From a merely technical viewpoint, we are in an easy situation since the technical training opportunities of the 21st century go as far as the imagination goes. On the international market, the simulation systems for tasks are available in all phases of training”.

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