Field training takes the next step with virtual simulations platform

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Erica Benson

Specialist technology procured by the DE&S Training and Simulation Systems Portfolio team within Soldier Training and Special Programmes (STSP) is enabling units to get the most out of live fieldtraining exercises.

The Interim Combined Arms Virtual Simulation (Deployable) platform, known as ICAVS(D), was developed and delivered by Elbit Systems UK to provide immersive, tactical training as part of the British Army’s Battlecraft Syllabus. It is an important pathfinder project for the Army’s collective training transformation programme.

Delivered to schedule, ICAVS (D) went into full operating capability in April last year and has already proved its agility and highly deployable capabilities during British Army exercises in Germany and Estonia.

Nick Taylor, DE&S STSP team leader, said: “ICAVS (D) uses the latest highspecification hardware and Defence Virtual Simulation software to deliver immersive virtual tactical training, enabling units to get the most out of their live-fire exercises. It is used by both reserve and regular soldiers in the British Army, providing the ability to conduct combined-arms collective training and experimentation at a place and time of the units’ choosing, as well as allowing for mission rehearsal of complex operational environments in all weathers, terrains and environments.”

ICAVS(D) is used by all services in the British Army, as well as the Royal

Marines and members of Joint Helicopter Command. It replaced the Unit Based Virtual Trainer in April and is the bridge to the full CAVS(D) capability.

There are currently four ICAVS(D) units available at any time and the system is easily deployed around the UK and overseas. It complements both online and in-person training, and contributes to Future Soldier, the Army’s modernisation and transformation plan.

Martin Fausset, CEO of Elbit Systems UK, said: “The rapid deployability and ease of configuration of ICAVS(D) has proven its value in enhancing training across all aspects of the Army. After 10 months in service, ICAVS(D) is due to exceed its annual delivery target, and the growing demand for more training events signals the Army’s confidence in ICAVS(D)’s ability to exploit the full potential of the service.”

Following a demonstration of ICAVS(D) at the Land Warfare Centre, Major Ian Atkins said: “The exercise provided an opportunity to conduct low-level training in a virtual environment prior to deploying on exercise later in the year. ICAVS(D) offers a step change in capability and provides the Army with the ability to conduct low-level training, both mounted and dismounted, in a virtual environment, meaning units can maximise the benefit they get from their time in the field training in the live environment. ICAVS(D) is not intended to replace live training, but to augment it by allowing units in barracks to train in areas they previously couldn’t without deploying into the field at huge resource expense.”