VR Gun Fu - Virtual Reality and tactical training #1

scievr (51)in #technology • 7 years ago

Greetings fellow steemians, I decided to drop a new post concerning guns and VR.

Firearms can be quite a difficult topic. There's so much wrongdoing involving guns around the World and they sure are dangerous in the wrong hands.

I'm not in a position to take part in any political debate or regulation matters. In this series I will focus on writing about the use and possibilities Virtual Reality brings for tactical infantry training.

VR Gun Fu - Virtual Reality and tactical training #1

As I mentioned in my introduction post earlier this month I have spent major part of my adult life working for the military. I served under both the Finnish Army and Navy, traveled quite a bit and received training in multiple countries. Good thing about military training that is always present and seems to apply to every force and training session, is that you always start with the basics and advance gradually, step by step.

Real professional knows the basic stuff like his/her own pockets and very often we see the baddest of all pros just being very, very good at doing the basic things, whatever the field of expertise.

As far as an army job goes, tactical firearms training of course plays a big part if you serve in a combat role. Repetition after repetition you learn how to change magazines faster and better, hit targets at longer distances, scan for targets faster, switch from rifle to sidearm in a flash and so forth.
Very often you have 1 or 2 instructors teaching and providing assistance if there's a problem and there's always a lot of reps to be done. A lot.
First individual skills, then working as a squad, then moving on to platoon exercises. Just about always.

Many things you will drill almost endlessly are very simple. You will want to master them. If not for yourself, then for the familiar faces charging forward at your side. Your squaddies count on you and sheer screaming won't unjam your rifle when it's full of sand and it's pitch black.

Current simulators compared to VR

I have seen some simulators being used for military training purposes, but honestly they haven't been very good. Usually expensive systems that require 1-3 trained professionals to run them. While they might be good for training reporting and target identification, I would say the ones that I have seen have been far from efficient.

Finnish conscripts in virtual training environment. Source: varusmies.fi

Somewhat new trend in the FDF that seems to be getting more popular are these so called virtual training environments. If you ask me, that's a computer class with tailored software. It's a step towards the right direction I guess, but this has been around for at least 15 years. Without a doubt it's fun compared to some of the things you will be put through during your training and undoubtedly you are bound to learn something.
Still, without stepping on anyone's toes, it's a computer class and elementary school had one. You run with keyboard, you aim with mouse and you're sitting comfortably in a chair.

So - computer class compared to this? It's a no-brainer isn't it?

I felt like practicing my rifle skills and improvised shooting positions with moving targets in infantry combat gear last week, nothing fancy. Full video at the end.

VR training is safe and easy

As mentioned, vast majority of the things you will train and repeat are very simple and you aim to master them. Under stressful conditions, bad weather, wounded, heartbroken, whatever the situation, empty mag will need to make way for the full one.
Speed is important, but hitting the target is essential.
Friendly fire is unacceptable.

Reloading M249 SAW

The prepared always come out on top. Virtual Reality provides easy access to train the basic tactical skills with zero to none danger to anybody. Combined with an AI or a training program I see it as a very effective way to train basic firearm and tactical skills. Military firearms are often stored away from the barracks for increased safety and your access might be restricted. It doesn't matter, with a suitable training simulation and equipment you can still enhance your skills.
On top of training your motor skills and having fun, you also get some physical exercise. It's rarely a minus. And there's no need for an instructor!

Rifle double taps

Certain elite units around the world have been using VR for training purposes for years, at least I've read so. Personally I'm unable to name anyone who has had such an opportunity.

Tailored software can effectively guide and teach you with the basic things in this field even if you have no previous experience
Less instructors needed means less expenses
Immersive VR can be quite fun

Okayokay, hold on...what does something like this cost?

The content you see here has been recorded mostly in my living room. I live in a small studio apartment and I built a training space in there, because I can. All from my own pocket.

Building a VR training space costs money, but it is not expensive and it doesn't necessarily require staff to operate it.

Improvised shooting positions exercise with Space Pirate Trainer, full Mixed Reality video.
This my first try, the game is far from realistic, but it is very challenging with 80% less firepower and 50% less mobility at my disposal compared to normal player. I try to avoid special weaponry and power-ups, just sticking to bullets.

Shoutout and salute to military forces around the World! Already using VR? You should. No? Need expertise? At your service, contact me: [email protected]

Thank you for reading, end of part #1

Special thanks:
Finlander & team for Mixed Reality setup
miniFactory Oy Ltd. for printing the awesome custom gunstock
Wizdish Ltd.
Juke Performance Inc.
Finnish VR Association - FIVR
@GSGaming
In turbulent times I remember your support and I jump back into the fray.

Questions? Comments? Which subject would you like me to cover next? Fire Away!