Rohde & Schwarz Unveils Their Next-Generation Software Defined Tactical Radio

Rohde & Schwarz (R&S), in a press conference, has today unveiled their brand-new R&S Software Defined Tactical Radio (SDTR), enabling high data rate, jam-resistant communications in network centric operations.

 

The R&S SDTR is the first in a new generation of software defined radios, together with a family of network capable waveforms. This tactical radio for vehicular and semi-mobile platforms delivers 50W of output power without external amplifiers and covers the 30-512MHz range. It meets the military's special requirements on shock resistance, size, weight and ventilation without the need for extra mechanical shock absorbers. Thanks to integrated high-performance filters, antennas can be spaced as close as one meter apart and the radio lines will not interfere with each other. The R&S SDTR, with the R&S HDR waveforms, is fully IP capable and can be easily and seamlessly integrated into existing IP networks.

The R&S SDTR is an open platform based on the software communications architecture (SCA) standard. SCA based waveforms and other manufacturers' waveforms can be ported to the radio, paving the way for interoperability with allied Armed Forces. The R&S SDTR is an investment for the future. It has the capability to handle future international standardised waveforms with data rates of up to several Mbit/s.

(Photo: DPM)

Christian Leicher President & COO R&S in the first presentation explained that; "this last business year (2012) has been a record breaking year with approx. €1.88 billion (FY 11/12, July through June) revenue. The main driver has been the wireless comms industry, and and there is a tremendous amount of money invested in future technology. 16% of the annual revenue is invested in R&D, with international teams of developers close to customers anticipating technological trends."
"We are expanding our R&D network on a global scale, with the main force still in Germany, adding the US, Singapore, and key markets like China and Korea," he said. "We are confident we have a world-leading product here."

"We grew this family over the last few years," said Herbert Rewitzer, Head of the Radiocommunications Systems Division at R&S. "We developed the R&S SDTR as an open, flexible platform so that our customers can adapt their communications systems to their tasks and not the other way around – a key factor in the success of missions."

"We have an open platform and it allows waveforms by third parties," he explained.

Dr. Michael Frank, Director of Subdivision Radiocommunications Equipment R&S explained that the SDTR is interoperable in different crypto modes with NATO- future NATO-, and other coalition waveforms, as well as has the capabilities to host waveforms from allies.

R&S has developed a family of network capable, high data rate waveforms to handle diverse mission requirements. The R&S HDR waveforms transmit data and up to two voice channels in parallel, at high speed and with different priorities. Users can select the waveform that best matches their requirements on range, data rate and jamming immunity. The R&S HDR waveform family enables mobile, IP based tactical radiocommunications, the prerequisite for future networked operations. In vehicle based missions, the contactability of network nodes and the availability of bandwidths can change rapidly. The R&S HDR waveforms offer MANET capability, supporting the automatic reconfiguring of radio networks.

(Photo: DPM)

"There is no way for third party waveforms, running on the same SDTR, to interfere with the waveform running on the platform," Dr. Frank explained. "The SDTR is able to interact with the R&S SDAR (Software Defined Airborne Radio) and the R&S SDSR (Stationary and Shipborne Radio), where the waveform will run as well, thereby supporting joint operations."

"It is very important to send secure network information from the soldier to HQ and back," explained Dirk Lageveen Head of Sales Army Communications Systems R&S about the reason why R&S fielded this ground-breaking product.

Waveforms available are High Date Rate Wideband- (R&S HDR-WB), High Date Rate Anti-Jam Wideband- (R&S HDR-AJ-WB), and High Data Rate Anti-Jam Narrowband Waveform (R&S HDR-AJ-NB), all with a transparent interface, mobile ad hoc networking.
THe R&S HDR-AJ-WB includes a multi-slot capability (for voice and data, in all echelons).

The sophisticated security architecture of the R&S SDTR provides users with secure, reliable communications. Plain and encrypted data is strictly separated. Very fast frequency hopping rates ensure maximum immunity to jamming. These measures, combined with high-security encryption, provide optimum protection against jamming, reconnaissance and eavesdropping. This is done via the R&S software, making this a TRUE Software Defined Radio. "To protect communities of interest, security includes COMSEC, TRANSEC, and embedded and software defined Crypto, in a ruggedised crypto device with a true random number generator, tamper protection and crypto ignition key," said Dr. Frank. "We are the company to have given the market a TRUE Software Defined Radio."

The new R&S SDTR and R&S HDR waveform family are available now, and the SDAR in 2015, with the R&S SDSR shortly after, even though the SDTR could be used on ships as well, according to Dr. Frank. To a dismounted version, Herbert Rewitzer explained that R&S "will offer a complete portfolio for the Army with a mixture of OEM and their own products."

(All Photos & Graphics: R&S except where noted)

I/ITSEC 2012 - Rockwell Collins' Integrated, Networked Demonstrations of the Latest Simulation and Training Technology

With the US military services moving toward incorporating live-virtual-constructive (LVC) training, Rockwell Collins is prepared with an LVC solution ready to meet the needs of their customers.

(All Photos, Graphics, and Screenshots by Rockwell Collins)

At I/ITSEC 2012, the US Navy has invited Rockwell Collins to its booth to deliver demonstrations of the research that the company’s Advanced Technology Center (ATC) is achieving with the Office of Naval Research. LVC events include live aircraft interoperating with virtual and constructive players, with one of those virtual players being in main theater. The LVC players will be driven by Rockwell Collins' CORE Simulation framework, EP-80 & EP-8000 Image Generation products, and will include an air-to-air radar engagement utilising Rockwell Collins' Radar Sensor Simulation.

The Rockwell Collins exhibit also features integrated, networked demonstrations of the latest simulation and training technology, including:

EP-8000 Image Generator. Unveiled at I/ITSEC 2009, the EP-8000 features truly ground-breaking technology that changes the training paradigm and raises the bar for visuals by providing an image generator with the highest level of performance, reliability and maintainability to create maximum value for customers.

EP-80 Image Generator. Rockwell Collins' latest product launch features EP runtime with standard COTS graphics cards.  During LVC events, the company’s Navy customer will utilise EP-80’s to render the synthetic environment.

CORE Instructor Operator System. The CORE IOS allows an instructor to easily configure application pages and customise lessons quickly, forming a more challenging and accurate experience for the trainee.  During LVC events, the CORE Instructor Operator Station (IOS) is integrated with an EP-8000 image generator demonstrating a high-performance fast jet application.

2015HC Projector. Featured in theater, the 2015HC offers unprecedented contrast, dynamic range and black levels essential for full-capability simulation training. It is capable of achieving a typical contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1, and its dynamic range offers excellent lightpoint performance, is compatible with night vision goggles and allows all-electronic blending. Other features include highly accurate color processing, grayscale tracking, automatic corrections and diagnostics and motion blur capabilities.

Sensor Operator Trainer for UAS Applications/Radar Modeling Booth Station. These demonstrations will feature four integrated Rockwell Collins Simulation & Training Solutions products and how they could be configured to support UAS training, in this case for the sensor operator. The demonstration consists of a Rockwell Collins CORE Integrated Operator Station with moving map, two different sensor views consisting of a Synthetic Aperture Radar simulation and electro-optical simulation, both correlated to the same visual scene rendered by a Rockwell Collins desktop image generation system.  This booth station also highlights standalone demonstration of the radar modeling solutions.

SimEye SX45 Helmet Mounted Display. The SX45 is a rugged, high resolution helmet mounted display (HMD) that improves virtual combat training for the digital soldier. The SX45 is the ultimate display solutions for part-task and integrated training environments.

Desktop Fusion Avionics Trainer. The demonstration features the Rockwell Collins FUSION Flight Deck in a virtual training media solution.

I/ITSEC 2012 - Christie Exhibiting Seven Zones of Innovation in Simulation and Training

Christie, a leader in simulation projection display and visualisation solutions, on booth #2549 brought along this year, advancements in solid state projection technology, improved stimulated Night Vision Goggle (NVG) training capabilities, and dual-input projection system architecture that enables true 120Hz RGB output for improved dynamic image quality.

Christie introduces the Christie Matrix StIM WQ, one of the industry’s brightest fully integrated solid-state WQXGA resolution projection systems for simulation applications; an innovative Christie DualView simulator display concept that can separately compute and render the same scene for two unique points of view (POV); and the new 60Hz high performance Christie QuadHD 84 inch flat panel display with Quad HD resolution (3840 x 2160) and 1.07 million colors capability. Christie strategically merges its cutting-edge technologies, backed by years of proven industry experience, to deliver highly customised solutions that meet the specific training and simulation requirements of customers in military, government and civil markets.

“We are continuously surveying market needs and pushing the envelope of innovation, including embracing the integration of stereo and simulation, to deliver solutions that offer the highest performance and flexibility at the lowest cost,” said Zoran Veselic, Vice President of Visual Environments, Christie. “From the industry’s first dual-input system that offered simultaneous display of both the visible and infrared spectrum to today’s DualView concept that renders two unique points of view on one screen simultaneously, Christie brings ‘real world’ solutions to the simulation market that help set the pace of innovation.”

Among technologies displayed are
Christie Matrix StIM WQ – 120Hz Demo With the Latest IG and Display Technology 
The new rugged Christie Matrix StIM WQ is an integrated scalable environment projection system that outputs 800 ANSI lumens and displays independent RGB and Infrared(IR) channels through Christie’s InfraScene technology at WQXGA (2560 x 1600) resolution – one of the first and brightest LED-based WQXGA projection systems in the industry to do so at true 120Hz RGB output. Each of Matrix StIM-WQs will be driven by two 60Hz channels from FlightSafety International’s six-channel VITAL X Image Generator to display a composite 120Hz output with improved dynamic image quality without trade-offs in brightness or compromising IG rendering capability.

(Photo: Christie)

Christie DualView Concept
The innovative DualView simulator can separately compute and render the same scene from two unique points of view (POV) with excellent image quality, allowing two operators to respond to their own, separately warped, full-screen image simultaneously. This achieves essentially zero geometric distortion rather than a compromise single DEP ( Design Eye Point) located half way between operators. As a result, the system offers collaborative training that is closer to real-life scenarios where fast action developments require rapid decisions. Christie partnered with RealTime Immersive (RTI - booth #325) and Immersive Display Solutions (IDSI - booth #1229) on this display concept.

Christie HoloStation
The Christie HoloStation is a personal visualisation system that displays up to 16.8 Megapixels of data in a 3D stereoscopic and interactive, tracked environment – all in a compact footprint. It provides the functionalities of a full-size Christie CAVE, but in a scaled down, completely self-contained personal immersive environment that fits into a cubicle or small office. With interactive 3D content from WorldViz, an industry leader in interactive virtual reality solutions, and a pair of NVIDIA Quadro cards, it features external graphics processing designed for large-scale 3D visualization. Easy to deploy and use, the Christie HoloStation can be set up in almost any facility, and with its head-tracking sensors, it is ideal for applications including aircraft design development, architectural walk-throughs and as a 3D virtual trainer.

Christie QuadHD 84” Flat Panel Technology Preview
The Christie QuadHD is a high performance 60Hz 84-inch flat panel display with Quad HD resolution (3840 x 2160) and 1.07 billion colors that provide rich, pristine and detailed images even up close for the ultimate in realism. The 60Hz refresh rate allows for smooth, real-time motion display of 2D content; and 50,000 hours illumination life makes it reliable and cost-effective. Easy to deploy, it is an affordable solution for high performance, professional data visualization applications.

Remote Operator Training Workstation
The Christie Remote Operator Training Workstation is a modular faceted display of three Christie FHD551-X high-definition 55” LCD flat panels, landscape mounted in a 1 by 3 array and one stacked below the center for lookdown views of maps or GPS controls. The low-cost simulation system provides a wide Field of View (120°) and is perfect for UAV operator training, as well as command vehicles, ship’s bridges and air traffic control.

60 /120Hz Comparison
A dramatic, side-by-side demonstration of images projected at 120Hz versus 60Hz illustrates the accuracy and clarity of higher update rates. Christie integrates the Matrix StIM’s unique dual-input architecture with image generators running 60Hz to achieve the higher 120Hz update rate for the complete visual, with the result being a sharper image with no motion artifacts and no compromise in brightness. The display is powered by two dual-input Christie Matrix StIM™ LED projectors, with content and image generators provided by strategic partner MetaVR, a software development company that specializes in visualization of real-time 3D worlds.

Christie SPYDER X20 – A Most Versatile Video Processor
The rugged Christie SPYDER X20 is a powerful video processing system that provides the flexibility and control needed to create high-tech, high-quality video wall displays for applications such as monitoring and surveillance, command-and-control, action review and situational analysis. The SPYDER X20 will power multiple displays such as a 3 by 4 Christie MicroTiles array (12 tiles) and two Christie FHD551-X 55 inch flat panels to feature security camera footage and topographical maps.

Christie products can also be found at partner booths throughout I/ITSEC, including Flight Safety International, one of the world’s leading aviation training companies, which is using three Christie Matrix StIM projectors, at booth # 1701; DiSTI, a global leader in the development of Human Machine Interface software for businesses, governments and the military, which is using three Christie FHD551-X LCD panels at booth# 1773; NDIA SIM TV displays, located in the conference lobby will use two Christie HD14K-M 3-chip 1080 HD digital projectors; Da-Lite, makers of the most comprehensive line of projection screens in the world, which is using a Christie DHD800 1-chip DLP projector, at booth #2734, and Air National Guard, which is using 10 Christie Matrix StIM simulation projectors, is at Booth #1963.

I/ITSEC 2012 - 3D perception Brings New End-to-End Solutions to I/ITSEC 2012

3D perception's booth #2059 lets visitors experience NORTHSTAR, the company's precision immersive display featuring automatic image alignment and color calibration, pixel-perfect image fidelity, and unified system control. The system's imagery is provisioned courtesy of CAE's MEDALLION 5000 series image generator for fast-jet applications.

(Graphic: 3D perception)

3D perception's NORTHSTAR System is one of  the best end-to-end solutions available to provide visual display for simulation today. The 3Dp NORTHSTAR System provides image processing, modular, sensor-enabled screens and the top level experience necessary to design, deliver and support your simulation visual display.

nBox is a next-generation image processor at the core of NORTHSTAR. nBox provides a seamless display across all screen shapes and sizes while it scales, warps, blends and color corrects the images.

The NORTHSTAR display at I/ITSEC 2012 features the fusion of the following live-linked technologies:

• nBox: 3DP's 4th generation, zero frame latency, multi-projector display processor. nBox warps, blends and color corrects content, and seamlessly displays imagery across any screen shape.
• Aurora: 3DP's sensor-instrumented smart screens with in-built automatic geometry, edge blending and color alignment technologies - WarpSync and ChromaSync. 
• nControl: A graphical user interface for system control, maintenance and adjustment, nControl allows users to approach the display as an integrated system, not as discrete components. 
• CompactView WUX62 Projectors: Single chip, dual lamp projectors, developed for challenging applications such as multi-channel seamless simulation and visualization walls, domes, and high-resolution imaging. 

Furthermore new at I/ITSEC:

StarScan - automatic image alignment system
3DP's StarScan provides a complete 3D measurement of the display system geometry in immersive display systems. Using precision gimbal-mounted laser rangefinding, StarScan measures both the exact 3D screen geometry and the projected image geometry with absolute precision, at up to eye-limiting resolutions. This enables the display system to meet 100% performance requirements at both installation and during maintenance operations.

Dynamic Optical Blenders
3D perception's Dynamic Optical Blenders provide precision edge blending for night and night vision goggle (NVG) training, without compromising image quality. Optical blending does not sacrifice contrast for black level uniformity, and the servo-controlled optical blends can gradually take effect during day-to-night transitions. During run-time, the dynamic optical blenders receive time-of-day cues from nControl's advanced scenario management software, which enables seamless transitions from pure electronic blends during daytime scenarios, through hybrid electronic/optical blends during dusk/dawn, to optical-only blends for night scenes.

I/ITSEC 2012 - NGRAIN Offers No-Cost 3D Authoring Tool

NGRAIN, a leading provider of interactive 3D simulation software and solutions for maintenance training and support, recently debuted NGRAIN PRODUCER, the personal learning edition, which is available free-of-charge. PRODUCER allows anyone, with or without 3D experience, to rapidly create interactive 3D animations and real-time practice tasks.

“NGRAIN is focused on transforming the way people share knowledge, and a key part of achieving this vision is making interactive 3D simulations even more attainable. Not only is the free-of-charge PRODUCER personal learning edition more feature-rich than fee-based 3D authoring tools, it also offers unparalleled ease of use,” said Josie Sutcliffe, Vice President, Marketing, NGRAIN.

With PRODUCER, the personal learning edition, users can create and update NGRAIN 3D KNOWLEDGE OBJECT (3KO) files, interactive 3D simulations that contain and visually communicate knowledge about the equipment system they represent. PRODUCER allows users to:

• Work with 3D models that have been created in any Digital Content Creation or Computer-Aided Design programme.
• Import 3D data to the compressed, interactive NGRAIN format using industry leading tools, or the NGRAIN VRML2 Converter.
• Create and update animations – as well as interactive practice tasks – using a visual “click and capture” storyboard. 
• Add important equipment knowledge, such as part details and links to reference materials, to support training and on-the-job performance for complex equipment.

Users can then easily insert 3KOs into Microsoft PowerPoint, Word, or Adobe PDF files, or publish 3KOs as part of an HTML page.

(Graphic: NGRAIN)

For more on PRODUCER, view this blog post.

“Animators and digital media developers worldwide are discovering the incredible potential of NGRAIN software, which removes the cost, complexity, and technical barriers usually associated with doing 3D,” said Sutcliffe. “We are excited to see the results our no-cost software and advanced development tools can help them achieve.”

I/ITSEC 2012 - Seen and Heard on Day Two

Wittenstein is demonstrating how moving simulation includes optimised designs and customer experiences. Customers are given a hands-on experience of engineering excellence in motion, aptly dubbed "e-Motion," with interactive demos of how Wittenstein is a leader in the simulation world with innovative electromechanical products. One is able to experience high-technology with Rotary-wing Simulation, Fixed-wing Simulation, Linkage / Traditional Control Loading, and Vibration Systems - The VIBE Seat Shaker.

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Lockheed Martin on booth #1749 is demonstrating the latest advancements in simulation and training, featuring next generation training capabilities including, Integrated live, virtual and constructive training for the flight and ground domains; cyber solutions that simulate large-scale, complex networks and allow realistic testing, training and evaluation of cyber threats; maintenance training with high fidelity 2D and 3D equipment simulations, minimizing the need to train on real equipment; and mobile applications for anytime, anywhere training and platform maintenance.

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With the US military services moving toward incorporating live-virtual-constructive (LVC) training, Rockwell Collins is prepared with an LVC solution ready to meet the needs of their customers. At I/ITSEC 2012, the US Navy has invited Rockwell Collins to its booth to deliver demonstrations of the research that the company’s Advanced Technology Center (ATC) is achieving with the Office of Naval Research. LVC events include live aircraft interoperating with virtual and constructive players, with one of those virtual players being in main theater. The LVC players will be driven by Rockwell Collins' CORE Simulation framework, EP-80 & EP-8000 Image Generation products, and will include an air-to-air radar engagement utilising Rockwell Collins' Radar Sensor Simulation. The Rockwell Collins exhibit also features integrated, networked demonstrations of the latest simulation and training technology.

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Stirling Dynamics at booth #2065 is exhibiting some of their most popular active control training products - their medium fidelity F-35 Stick and Throttle set and their dual linked compact sticks. Both products are prime examples of why the company counts among the world leaders in active control technology.

Rheinmetall at I/ITSEC 2012: A powerful Partner in the World of Simulation and Training

Comprehensive, realistic, deployment-oriented training is a vital prerequisite for success in military operations and critical situations on land, at sea and in the air. Modern simulation technology makes a major contribution here – from individual training in equipment procedures to tactical leadership training for large formations.

For over 35 years, Rheinmetall has been supplying the world’s armies, navies and air forces with simulation and training equipment, continuously pushing the envelope.

Rheinmetall Defence: a leading supplier of the world’s ground forces

Consisting of six divisions, Rheinmetall Defence is a leading supplier of defence technology to the armed forces of more than 85 countries. Last year Group sales exceeded €2 billion.

With 800 employees solely dedicated to simulation, Rheinmetall’s Simulation and Training business unit ranks as one of the major players in the military simulation and training worldwide. It is subdivided into four product sections: Land Simulation, Live Simulation, Flight Simulation, and Maritime and Process Simulation.

Land Simulation: Leopard Gunnery Skills Trainer and Demonstrator for gunnery and combat simulation

Rheinmetall is currently modernizing 42 Leopard 2A4 main battle tanks for the Canadian Army, refitting them to meet the needs of the Canadian military. Underscoring their trust in Rheinmetall’s Leopard 2 expertise – almost half of the tanks built so far come from the company’s plant (formerly MaK) in Kiel in northern Germany – the Canadian armed forces have recently placed another order with the Group. Under Canada’s Leopard 2 A4 Simulators and Trainers programme, Rheinmetall will be supplying eighteen Leopard Gunnery Skills Trainers (LGST) and two driver trainers.

The generic medium-fidelity Demonstrator for Gunnery and Combat Simulation clearly attests Rheinmetall’s expertise in simulating tank and infantry fighting vehicles for crew training. The commander’s and gunner’s workstations in the fighting compartment are equipped with original components such as hand controllers and operator interfaces as well as highly authentic interactive replica touch panels. This enables training in highly complex operational sequences to take place without necessarily having to use real vehicles. Moreover, by linking the original equipment to configurable touch panels via standard interfaces, it is possible to switch quickly from one simulated vehicle to another. The demonstrator, which features the Rheinmetall’s TacSi tactical simulation system as its simulator core, will be showcased at I/ITSEC 2012 as a tactical simulator, proving that the system’s operational capabilities can be further expanded.

Flight simulation

In the field of flight simulation, Rheinmetall is involved in nearly all European flight simulation and training programmes: the Tiger attack helicopter, Eurofighter Typhoon, NH-90 utility helicopter and Airbus A400M transport aircraft, to name only a few.

At I/ITSEC Rheinmetall will also be showcasing a true-to-life prototype of the Advanced Network Trainer (ANTares), its mobile tactical training system. Besides crew coordination training, ANTares can be used for preparing entire units for operational deployments – even in country. Thanks to Rheinmetall’s modular cubicle concept, the technologically advanced design makes it possible to network an extensive array of weapon system simulators, including land, sea and air assets, enabling sophisticated joint training operations. The simulation cubicles can be installed in containers in freely configurable order as a plug & play unit, resulting in the highly mobile ANTares training system. ANTares containers can be transported to the area of operations by road, rail, air or sea.

The system also takes into account the vital importance of up-to-date databases for efficient mission rehearsal: in the space of a few hours, the intelligent workflow from Rheinmetall’s Rapid Generation Database automatically produces the required virtual 3-D world based on the latest reconnaissance data.

LIVE – realistic combat simulation in the field

High-tech simulation does not require buildings or containers: it is equally applicable to mobile operations in the field using original equipment and weapons in live combat simulation scenarios. State-of-the-art communications technology and laser duel simulators are at the heart of this cutting edge application.

Since 2001, Rheinmetall has been successfully running a major combat training centre of this type on behalf of the German Bundeswehr. In the meantime, the Russian armed forces and a Middle Eastern customer have contracted with Rheinmetall to build and operate similar facilities.

Simulation and training technology from Rheinmetall Defence, where virtual reality and the real world are merging

With over 2,000 systems in service worldwide, Rheinmetall offers a comprehensive array of products ranging from inexpensive computer-supported training systems to highly advanced full-mission simulators for surface combatants, submarines, land and aerial platforms as well as simulation capabilities for fully networked joint and combined exercises.

Building on its extensive experience and unsurpassed expertise, Rheinmetall Defence bridges the gap between virtual reality and the real world, supplying state-of-the-art training solutions to prepare personnel for their next mission.

I/ITSEC 2012 - CAE Launches Dynamic Synthetic Environment Capability

At I/ITSEC on booth 1433, CAE introduced a next-generation capability and solution called the CAE Dynamic Synthetic Environment.

CAE DSE Scenario before dynamic event (All Screenshots: CAE)

The CAE Dynamic Synthetic Environment is an integrated solution combining an architecture based on the shared, public CDB specification; content creation software tools from both Presagis and CAE; core DSE simulation software; and DSE-enabled products such as image generators and computer-generated forces software.  This seamless, integrated solution is designed to create a virtual synthetic environment that more accurately and realistically simulates the real world.

CAE DSE Scenario after dynamic event weapons detonations

“We are introducing a capability that we believe represents the future of how synthetic environments will need to serve defence forces in an integrated live, virtual and constructive environment over the next decade and beyond,” said Marc St. Hilaire, Vice President, Technology and Innovation, CAE.  “There is no doubt defence forces must increasingly leverage simulation for mission training, rehearsal and decision-support because of its flexibility and inherent cost advantages.  Extending the use of simulation requires a synthetic environment that lives, breathes and changes just like the real world and that’s what the CAE Dynamic Synthetic Environment delivers.”

CAE continues to develop the fundamental architecture and framework for a dynamic synthetic environment, which began more than two years ago as part of an internal research and development (IRAD) program.  The company has established several objectives that the CAE Dynamic Synthetic Environment needs to address, including:

• Dynamic – the synthetic environment database must have the ability to change anywhere in the world in real-time without advance preparation;
• Persistence – once the synthetic environment changes as a result of any interaction with simulations such as weather or a weapons detonation, those changes must be able to “persist”;
• Scalable – the synthetic environment needs to support single users on a mobile or laptop-based system all the way up to large, distributed live-virtual-constructive federations; 
• Open – the underlying database architecture must be based on an open specification such as the CDB to enforce correlation and interoperability.

“The fact is that synthetic environment databases today are static, and to change them requires significant time, effort and money,” said St. Hilaire.  “With the CAE Dynamic Synthetic Environment capability, whether it is weapons, combat engineers, weather or the latest intelligence from the real world, all of this can be reflected in a dynamic synthetic environment.”

I/ITSEC 2012 - Brighter and Broader – projectiondesign Returns to I/ITSEC 2012

Norway’s projectiondesign returns to I/ITSEC with the broadest line-up of projectors dedicated to military training and simulation the company has ever offered on booth #2848.

New Product Introductions: FS35 IR and F35 Panorama Top the Bill!

Premiering at I/ITSEC are the new FS35 IR – one of the world’s highest resolution and brightest NVG stimulating solid-state LED projectosr. Available in two versions, the FS35 IR features the option of Dual IG input for simultaneous RGB + IR stimulated content, as well as a high-resolution version. With improved IR optics over the previous generation FS projectors, the FS5 IR boosts up to 80% more IR intensity and uses projectiondesign’s updated solid-state ReaLED illumination engine, providing unrivalled day and night-time training.



Also showing for the first time is the F35 panorama – one of the world’s first panoramic projectors for collaborative C4ISR workspaces. The F35 panorama boasts an exceptionally wide image aspect ratio of 21:9, which enables images as wide as 4m to be created in standard office spaces without the need for edge-blending of two projectors. Compared with a two-projector solution, the F35 panorama enables shorter setup and installation time, lower maintenance requirements, less down-time and a lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).

projectiondesign focuses strongly on showcasing the breadth of its product portfolio at I/ITSEC. The highly acclaimed F35 wqxga projector features in a six-channel fast jet simulator. Elsewhere on the booth there are a technology demonstration that showcases the company’s SRP (Smear Reduction Processing) and 120 vs 60 fps visual display motion.

Showing on the projectiondesign booth is the F85 – the brightest projector the company has ever built. A sophisticated three-chip DLP design, the F85 boasts a brightness of up to 11,000 ANSI lumens and a contrast ratio of 15,000:1 for ultra-crisp detailed images. The model is available in WUXGA or 1080p resolution, and is perfect for large ship bridge simulation installations, as demonstrated by Transas on the projectiondesign booth.

Another first to be shown at I/ITSEC is the new X-PORT extension models. X-PORT is a small and unique module based extension that enables easy connectivity to and from current and future formats, as well as supplemental image processing. The discrete devices plug easily on to the back of the projector. X-PORT is currently available as two modules, a DCC120 Dual Channel Combiner and a 3G-SDI interface. The booth demonstrates a dual-input night vision simulation scenario integrated with FS35 IR NVG projectors.

Real-Life Training Scenarios Can Be Seen Throughout I/ITSEC 2012

Representing many of today’s leading simulation and training environments, a number of solutions are showcased on the projectiondesign booth, with key industry partners such as Da-Lite Screen Company, Immersive Display Solutions, Quadrant Simulation Systems, Real Time Integrators (RTI), RGB Spectrum, RSI Visual Systems, Saab, Scalable Display Technologies, and Transas all contribute to the packages on display.

In addition, projectiondesign projectors can be found in use on several exhibitor booths throughout I/ITSEC to showcase their respective technologies. For example, Simulation Displays, a division of Paradigm AV, are supplying F85 1080 projectors for use with VBS2 fully interactive, three-dimensional, PC-based synthetic environment on the Bohemia Interactive Simulations booth 735.

Anders Løkke, Marketing Director at projectiondesign comments: “When it comes to the military training and simulation markets, there’s no show like I/ITSEC. We’re delighted to be returning to Orlando for this year’s show and believe we have a line-up of visual display solutions that is broader and stronger than ever. With the help of our manufacturer and integrator partners, who share our vision of high-quality imaging and rapid return on investment, we believe we will again have an excellent show and that government and military buyers will be blown away by the new solutions we have to offer.”.

(All Photos: projectiondesign)

I/ITSEC 2012 - DiSTI’s New LUMEN Runtime Engine for GL STUDIO Delivers Features & Capabilities for the Next Decade

DiSTI, a leading provider of interactive 3D software and customized training solutions, debuted LUMEN, GL STUDIO’s new runtime engine, at I/ITSEC 2012 in booth 1773.

GL STUDIO powered by LUMEN provides enhanced development features and increased capabilities in demand by today’s software UI developers.

The LUMEN runtime engine is DiSTI’s latest advancement in human machine interface development technology, allowing GL STUDIO users to expand their platform reach and interface functionality. Among the set of new features, LUMEN allows GL STUDIO users to integrate their graphical content with DirectX based scene generators opening up deployment options beyond the standard OpenGL landscape.

In addition to DirectX, the new LUMEN runtime delivers the capabilities required to meet the needs of today’s software UI developers. Its enhancements for greater object animation control, advanced text capabilities, higher fidelity for rendering 3D models, and support for new graphics card features, allow developers to create interface content that replicates real world devices closer than ever before. Designed to build once and deploy anywhere, LUMEN includes a lightweight COM dispatch architecture that replaces the binary interface with LUA scripting language.

“The development of the new LUMEN runtime for GL STUDIO represents a multi-million dollar development effort by DiSTI to ensure that our technology continues to meet the demands of our users well into the next decade. Consumers expect more from their user interface experience and now GL STUDIO developers can easily deliver on those expectations,” said Darren Humphrey, Chief Technology Officer of DiSTI.

I/ITSEC 2012 - Elbit Systems Delivers ISTAR Trainers and Armored Driving Trainers to Israel

Elbit Systems recently announced the delivery of two ISTAR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance) Trainers to the Israeli MoD for the training of surveillance and observation activities to be carried out on Israel's borders. Elbit Systems will also supply Armored Driving Trainers (ADTs) for combat vehicle training during the first quarter of 2013.

(All Photos: Elbit Systems)

Elbit Systems’ ISTAR Trainer is a combat support and field intelligence trainer, designed to enable full simulation of real-life battlefield situations for Forward Observers ("FOs") and sensor operators posted in all types of terrain, performing border control and protection activities. The ISTAR Trainer allows FOs to practice joint strike and reconnaissance missions. The scenarios offered by the ISTAR Trainer are realistic situations depicting the actual borders to be observed by each FO. Interoperable with C4I and communication systems, the scenarios include fire planning, ranging and field operation as well as target detection, recognition, identification, acquisition and engagement in diverse environmental conditions, while using a wide variety of day and night sensors. The ISTAR Trainer is already in use; training new users and maintaining the operational readiness of those professionals already in service.

 The Armored Driving Trainer (ADT) is mounted on a 6DOF (Degree Of Freedom) moving platform specifically designed to provide drivers of combat vehicles with a highly realistic driving experience. The system supports driver training in a wide range of combat and non-combat scenarios, as well as in diverse weather and harsh field conditions, thus creating vital practice situations, such as driving under enemy fire or on dangerous slopes. The ADT is cost effective; saving time and expense, while providing mobile, scalable and modular deployment, multi-platform type support and a network-based and user-friendly interface. Since receiving the current order for ADTs from the IMOD, Elbit Systems has received additional ADT orders from international customers.

Elbit Systems Aerospace Division’s VP - Training and Simulation, Alon Afik, commented:" "These orders for Armored Driving and ISTAR Trainers position Elbit Systems as a front runner in providing multi-faceted training technologies, such as border protection simulation, sensor simulation and C4I training."

I/ITSEC 2012 - Kongsberg Demonstrates New Integrated Naval Training Solution

Kongsberg debuted its latest integrated naval training solution at I/ITSEC 2012; the PROTEUS INTERACT (Integrated Naval Training Environment for Resource management And Crew Teamwork) is a joint development between the simulation and training departments of Kongsberg, and is the first solution designed to offer fully integrated naval training for complex multi-skills, team and force-level integrated naval scenarios.

(Photo: Kongsberg)

PROTEUS INTERACT is the latest offering in Kongsberg’s robust PROTEUS family of naval training solutions. It uses a low-risk high level architecture (HLA) to create a federation of Kongsberg PROTEUS naval training solutions and POLARIS Ship Bridge Simulators. By combining these two class-leading families of trainers, Kongsberg has created a scalable training solution based on a common, low-risk, cost-effective software family to provide a stable simulation environment.

Customers’ legacy HLA-compliant and Distributed Interactive Simulation (DIS) compatible trainers can easily be incorporated into the PROTEUS INTERACT HLA federation, to optimise existing training capabilities and increase the affordability of this innovative solution for collective crew training. Additionally and where required, sophisticated Kongsberg NEPTUNE Engine Room Simulators can be federated with PROTEUS INTERACT to provide completely integrated naval vessel training. This includes the effects of engine room and other engineering failures on tactical decision making by the Combat Information Center (CIC) and bridge teams, making a realistic whole crew simulation and training environment possible to practice a wide range of scenarios and to counter potential threats.

Such scenarios and threats include counter-swarm training, mission rehearsal, after action review, area access or area denial operations, operations to protect the overall maritime infrastructure, and for many other naval, coastguard and maritime policing roles, including developing and validating concepts of operations.

For the first time, Kongsberg’s PROTEUS INTERACT connects together the bridge and CIC teams with crew-served weapon operators, lookouts, cooperating vessels, helicopters, aircraft, UAVs, threats and traffic ships that all operate in a common scenario. Individual POLARIS and PROTEUS systems can still be used as part-task trainers as required to teach basic operator and team skills or, using PROTEUS INTERACT, federated to create a powerful training environment for the whole crew and its cooperating assets, all in real-time.

Trainers can be generic, as in the PROTEUS Action Speed Tactical Trainer (ASTT) and the POLARIS Ship Bridge Simulator (SBS), or designed to accurately emulate real equipment, systems and operating environments. PROTEUS software is already used in the Royal Norwegian Navy’s ULA-class submarine Command Team Trainer (CTT), and is to be used as the basis of the Royal Australian Navy’s (RAN) latest HOBART-class AEGIS Destroyer CTT.

POLARIS Bridge Simulator

I/ITSEC 2012 - Experience the Future of Maintenance Training and Operations Support at I/ITSEC

Picture this: You’re a Sailor deployed at sea with the Navy.  It’s your job to ensure equipment is in proper working order so that your crew can handle any emergency.

One piece of equipment under your charge is the P-100 pump. In the event of a fire onboard the ship, the pump allows your crew to draw water from the sea through a fire hose to extinguish the flames. Or if there’s flooding, they can use it to pump water off the deck.





To ensure readiness, you must check the equipment regularly. You need to assess the health of the pump’s various parts – including the frame, skids and engine mounts – then determine whether new parts need to be ordered and specific maintenance procedures need to be performed.

But instead of leafing through a heavy technical manual as you work through the process, you turn to a piece of ground-breaking technology that bridges the gap between information, action and results.  This technology allows you to visualize parts and task information in a completely new way, using 3D computer graphics software that adapts to your actions in real time.

What was just described here is a fictional scenario, but the technology capability now exists.  Thanks to the efforts of NGRAIN's R&D team, the company is debuting this new capability at I/ITSEC atbooth #1581.

I/ITSEC 2012 - Busy Year for Cubic

In the last year, Cubic has been very busy:

• The Luftwaffe flew Cubic’s latest generation air combat training instrumentation – the P5 Combat Training System - for the first time ever on a TYPHOON aircraft during the Red Flag Alaska exercises this year.
• Cubic deployed the P5 Combat Training System to three USAF Europe bases – Lakenheath (UK), Spangdahlem (Germany), and Aviano (Italy).
• Cubic is developing the new embedding training system that will fly aboard the F-35 JSF.
• Cubic is the Lead Systems Architect for a new and important Live Virtual and Constructive (LVC) training integration programme through the USAF Research Laboratory. LVC integration is expected to bring considerable cost savings and logistics benefits to the US military in the future. 

I/ITSEC 2012 - SAIC's Advanced, Lleading-Edge Products and Systems at I/ITSEC 2012

Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) features specialised training solutions in live, virtual and constructive (LVC) products, systems, and infrastructure across the services, joint coalition and homeland security domain on booth 2439.

SAIC is featuring specialised solutions in individual and collective training systems for aviation crew mission planning, coordination and rehearsal; precision position location and tracking systems for exercises and operations; and a new weapons simulation system for live training and testing of aircraft and weaponry among other technologies.

(Graphic: SAIC)

Key demonstrations include:

Aviation Crew Training — Precision-Coordination and Proficiency
Innovative aviation training solutions like the SAIC Non-Rated Crew Member Manned Module (NCM3) allow the entire crew to train in the same environment. SAIC's simulators maximise crew coordination, safety, proficiency, and currency flight hours through collective training of pilots and crew.

At the show one is able to watch the NCM3 virtual simulator that supports the realistic collective training of helicopter gunners, and hoist and sling-load operators for tactical operations, aerial gunnery support and defence.

Mission-Focused Air Crew Training
Aviation training solutions like the SAIC RC-12X Cockpit Procedural Trainer (CPT) deliver mission-focused ISR aircrew training. SAIC apply their deep domain expertise to provide sustainment training for specialised mission planning and mission rehearsal.

At the show one is able to view the RC-12X CPT, a modular, reconfigurable, and fully integrated aviation training simulation solution that supports aircrew in a multitude of cockpit procedures and sustainment training.

Position Location and Tracking Solutions – Train with Confidence
The SAIC family of tracking solutions for the aviation, ground vehicle and dismount domains enables rapid update rate, highly accurate monitoring of personnel and asset location to support training, emergency response, and instrumentation during exercises and operations.

At the show one is able to see the Soldier Monitoring System (SMS) that provides personnel with a safety net during live training – a powerful emergency alert and precise location identification system.

Furthermore, one is able to see the new Aviation Tactical Engagement Simulation System (AV-TESS), a flexible, training solution, tracking and weapons simulation system, that supports live force-on-force and force-on-target training and the evaluation and testing of new air vehicles and weapons systems.

I/ITSEC 2012 - MilDef & ViaSat Provides Military-Grade DT6 Tablet Offering

MilDef has recently announced the release of its DT6 tablet, designed to provide military personnel with a rugged, easy-to-use and completely secure touchscreen device for use in the field. The fully ruggedised tablet features an 8.9” WSVGA LCD touchscreen with anti-glare and anti-reflective coating, making for easier use in all environments. It is also equipped with the ViaSat Eclypt IL6 Encrypted Hard Drive. As a result, data contained is protected up to Top Secret level meaning that users can have peace of mind that regardless of events it is as safe as can be from falling into enemy hands.

“Any piece of kit used on the modern battlefield needs to promote confidence in the user,” said Rob Jones of MilDef. “They must be confident that it can answer any task required of it. That it will not fail under duress and that neither it nor the information it contains will become a hazard in their own right. By including a whole range of connectivity options, ensuring that the DT6 is designed for the toughest environments and working with ViaSat to include top-of-the-line data encryption, we are providing users on the ground with a device that will help them concentrate on the job at hand, with the reassurance that their kit is fit for the task at hand.”

The DT6 is fully customizable to meet specialist customer requirements. The standard unit is equipped with Bluetooth, USB, Serial Port and Ethernet, with further options including GPS, WLAN and WWAN connectivity. The Panther DT6 is manufactured from magnesium alloy and is designed to meet strict environmental standards such as MIL-STD-810G (for coping with altitude, high/low temperatures, humidity, salt fog, vibration and shock), MIL-STD-461E (for electromagnetic compatibility), and IP54 (for protection from dust and water).

The 2.5” IL6 Eclypt Hard Drive from ViaSat is CESG CAPS – accredited to hold data up to Top Secret level, while also providing the whole DT6 Tablet with a two-level drop in protective marking, on power down, to make data easier to use in the field. The drive is easy to remove and replace when needed and incorporates the use of token readers and keystones). It is also available in a variety of sizes and Solid State (SSD) variants in order to fit users’ specific needs.





“When using equipment like laptop computers or tablets in the field, the last thing you want to have to worry about is whether it will be a risk to you and others if captured,” said a member of 3 Commando Brigade. “Devices that offer a high level of encryption are increasingly vital as information and communications become ever-more integral parts of the modern battlefield. When combined with ruggedness and a full range of other capabilities we can make sure we have devices that do what we need, when we need it, and only for us.”

(Photos MilDef & ViaSat)

I/ITSEC 2012 - Dassault Systèmes Announces the V6 Release 2013x of its 3DEXPERIENCE Platform

Dassault Systèmes, the 3DEXPERIENCE vompany, a world leader in 3D design software, 3D Digital Mock Up and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) solutions,  has announced the latest release of its 3DEXPERIENCE platform.

V6 Release 2013x includes the general availability of Dassault Systèmes’ Simulation Lifecycle Management (SLM) capabilities, improved access to Big Data, new composite materials design capabilities, secured exchange workspaces for suppliers, and support for new STEP standards.  This release also covers a strong set of industry solutions enhancements for consumer packaged goods, energy, aerospace and defense, transportation and mobility, marine and offshore, and high tech.

Dassault Systèmes, the 3DEXPERIENCE Company, provides business and people with virtual universes to imagine sustainable innovations.  Its solutions transform the way products are designed, produced, and supported.  Dassault Systèmes’ collaborative solutions foster social innovation, expanding possibilities for the virtual world to improve the real world.  The group brings value to over 150,000 customers of all sizes, in all industries, in more than 140 countries.

I/ITSEC 2012 - DiSTI’s New Runtime Engine for GL STUDIO Successfully Integrates with Havok VISION Engine

DiSTI, a leading provider of interactive 3D software and customised training solutions, and Havok, a leading provider of simulation and 3D visualisation technologies, have announced the successful integration of GL STUDIO, powered by the new LUMEN Engine, into Havok’s VISION Engine. The technology integration allows developers to use GL STUDIO powered by LUMEN in conjunction with VISION Engine to enhance realism of cockpit and instrumentation content for simulation and training applications.

The LUMEN runtime engine for GL STUDIO is DiSTI’s newest advancement in human machine interface development technology allowing GL STUDIO users to expand their platform reach to include DIRECTX. In doing so, instrumentation integration with Havok and other DIRECTX-based rendering technologies are possible. In addition to DIRECTX, the new LUMEN runtime delivers the features required to meet the needs of today’s interface developers, including: multi-touch, animations, advanced text capabilities, support for new graphics card features, and the foundation to build once deploy anywhere.

“The development of the new LUMEN runtime for GL STUDIO represents a multi-million dollar development effort by DiSTI to ensure that our technology continues to meet the demands of our users well into the next decade, and our collaboration with Havok is a great example. Not only will the integration with Havok’s VISION Engine technology enable a more efficient workflow for developers, it will also help simplify the development process. For the past twelve years, GL STUDIO has been the no nonsense way for developers to build and integrate their instrumentation content into OpenGL-based scene graphs. Today they can count on the same access to the DIRECTX community,” said Darren Humphrey, CTO of DiSTI.

Havok VISION Engine is a complete simulation development framework for creating compelling, high-quality visuals and realistic simulations, with recent capabilities that include vehicle and character simulation, ocean rendering and building and object destruction. The development framework ships with several out-of-box plugins for numerous third-party technologies such as DiSTI’s GL STUDIO powered by LUMEN, and also includes sample projects and content libraries to help accelerate application development. With advanced capabilities and a highly efficient workflow, Havok’s VISION Engine technology has helped leading integrators such as Lockheed Martin, KMW, Cassidian, Thales, and Rheinmetall to not only meet, but exceed training requirements both in terms of delivery time and program budgets.

Havok VISION Engine Features

“It’s great to be working with a global leader like DISTI for HMI (Human Machine Interface) development,” said Cory Kumm, Director of Military and Simulation at Havok. “GL STUDIO powered by LUMEN is a great fit for our customers and ecosystem filling a need for HMI development requirements within our 3D visualisation and development framework. We look forward to seeing how customers make use of our combined capabilities.”

DiSTI’s LUMEN Engine has been officially introduced at I/ITSEC 2012, where Havok is showcasing the joint integration on booth 1821.

I/ITSEC 2012 - Seen and Heard on Day One

Atlantis Systems, a globally recognised training integrator in the military and commercial markets, has signed a Teaming Agreement with CAE for the provision of training solutions to the Department of National Defence in Canada. Under this agreement, Atlantis will support CAE as a key technology partner in a number of areas including Flight Training Devices and Courseware Development. Atlantis Systems uses its core capabilities in simulation-aided design and engineering and e-learning, combined with various technology tools, to help customers in military and commercial markets to ensure the feasibility, capability, and effective utilisation of their complex assets. 

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DiSTI in advance to I/ITSEC 2012 had everyone talking about Lumen, but kept mum.
DiSTI latest advancements in highly interactive training solutions is the new GL Studio powered by Lumen. Furthermore, the company highlights their innovations for embedded training, Replic8's rapid creation of level 3 and 4 courseware, and DiSTI's virtual maintenance training solutions by the professional services team.

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Matrox and Exxact show how high-performance-computing content from a single NVIDIA QUADRO K5000 GPU can scale in Full HD resolution up to a 16-monitor synchronised video wall while being controlled over an IP network device. This system features the Matrox AVIO F120 fiber-optic KVM extender, Matrox MURA MPX Series video wall controller boards, and Matrox MAEVEX video distribution over IP technology in conjunction with Exxact’s GPU workstation. This is seen at Exxact’s booth #2068.

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Saab is showcasing their new virtural company ISD (JFIST), their newly installed MOUT CTC UOTS (first instrumented training center for Saab in Sweden), two big programmes CV-TESS and IRS in the US, and the two new products (PDD, Gunnery Crew Trainer).

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Bell Helicopter, a Textron company, has recently signed an MoU to assist with the establishment of a maintenance training facility for Bell 206L and 407 helicopters in the Guangdong province of China. Bell Helicopter and Guangzhou Civil Aviation College (Guangzhou College) signed the MOU at Airshow China 2012. The MOU will focus on training for the Bell 206L and Bell 407 product lines, and includes access to training course materials, electronic training systems and continued support throughout training.

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Systematic’s SitaWare command and control software and MASA Group’s SWORD constructive simulation software together demonstrate how situational awareness, C2 tasks and constructive simulation can complement each other to provide a ‘C2 Classroom’ tool. The C2 Classroom is a fully-functional combination of two COTS products, MASA SWORD and Systematic’s SitaWare Headquarters. The tool targets applications related to C2 training, course of action analysis, war gaming and simulation support in concept and doctrine development.

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The US Army recently awarded CSC a contract modification to upgrade a simulator-based flight and related aviation training device for the US Army Aviation Center of Excellence at Ft. Rucker, AL. The contract modification has a six-month base period and ten one-year options worth $34 million. The contract modifications were awarded under the Flight School XXI indefinite-delivery requirements contract, which CSC won in 2003. Under the agreement, CSC will upgrade the Reconfigurable Collective Training Devices (RCTD) to more closely simulate the Block 2 model of the OH-58D aircraft and enhance the interoperability between new and existing technologies. The RCTDs allow units to train collectively to most closely simulate the roles and responsibilities of each individual as they relate to the overall situation and includes 18 manned-modules that can be reconfigured to US Army aircraft, including the OH-58D KIOWA WARRIOR, AH-64D APACHE, UH-60A/L BLACK HAWK and CH-47D CHINOOK.

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Havok, a provider of real-time simulation development and 3D visualisation technology, entered a technology agreement with JRM Technologies, a provider of high-fidelity physics-based sensor simulation technology for the emulation of sensor visualisation effects within real-time training environments. The agreement will let Havok’s Vision Engine customers have an out-of-the-box integration with JRM technologies, allowing for validated physics-based sensor simulation all in real-time with incredible frame-rates.

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Boeing's F-15E EAGLE and the F/A-18E Super HORNET are now equipped to train in an environment that puts them at odds against real aircraft and computer-generated enemy threats at the same time.

Both aircraft now are equipped to train in an environment that puts them at odds against real aircraft and computer-generated enemy threats at the same time. Under a $6.3 million, three-year contract with the USAF Research Laboratory, Boeing is developing these simulation capabilities for both aircraft – and under the current contract, the pilot project will culminate with a capstone demonstration at Nellis Air Force Base, NV in late 2013. The technology can provide aircrews with a complex virtual strike environment in which to train, while potentially decreasing the number of real aircraft and other assets to practice against. Generally, an actual combat aircraft is networked with ground-based simulation computers that provide computer-generated threats. Before this new capability, pilots could practice using flight simulators on the ground, but when they trained in the actual aircraft, other people were needed to play the role of an opponent, commonly referred to as a "red" or adversary team. Having a virtual combat simulation while actually flying is expected to reduce the number of real aircraft or other live assets needed to form a red team, providing cost-savings and a safer training environment.

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JVC announced its new E-SHIFT 8K projection technology, along with a large-scale simulation partnership to bring the new technology to market at booth 1048. JVC also demonstrates E-SHIFT 4K technology in an off-the-shelf configuration, as well as native 4K projection using a new light source. All of JVC's current and upcoming Visualisation Series projectors are on display in the JVC booth.

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Night Readiness is exhibiting and have added a new, expanded, on-site darkroom in their booth #2127 to showcase their latest products, allowing customers to experience the true, immersive technology of our "stimulation" training system. This year, Night Readiness present the results of their on-going efforts in the development of the new VTB Ground Forces edition. This includes newly expanded, high resolution ground databases coupled with new, 3D animated moving models. Additionally, Night Readiness announce the development of their Thermal Sensor simulation of the VTB for 2013. Night Readiness continues to develop a unique training approach utilizing the most cost effective, classroom delivery method.  This training approach increases the effectiveness of our customer's training programs while providing greater efficiency and interest among users. 

I/ITSEC 2012 - MASA Group Unveils Latest Advances in SWORD Constructive Simulation COTS Software

At I/ITSEC 2012 on Booth #2201, MASA Group, a leading developer of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based Modeling & Simulation (M&S) software for the defence, public safety, emergency management, healthcare, serious games and games-related markets, demonstrates SWORD’s capability to interoperate with operational C2 systems and other simulations. MASA also presents SWORD 5.1, the latest version of its commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) constructive simulation software, which can be deployed via distant servers in the Cloud and now supports right-to-left translations.

(All Photos and Graphics: MASA Group)

MASA SWORD is an automated, aggregated constructive simulation designed to assist users to develop and deploy advanced and highly realistic scenarios for the training of decision-makers in commanding posts and crisis centers, and for the analysis of military doctrines and emergency procedures.

SWORD is a powerful and open constructive simulation system. Supporting standards such as HLA and C-BML, SWORD is designed to be fully interoperable with C2, C4ISR systems as well as with other multi-level, joint, and emergency management simulations.

SWORD establishes a defence-security continuum and simulates civilian-military cooperation, offering defense and public safety systems integrators a host of useful features and functionalities. These features and functionalities are designed to address modern training and analysis requirements as well as  improve user experience within a context of reduced budgets. In particular, SWORD features missions, behaviors, and models covering OOTW and CBRN crisis management, low density conflicts such as counter terrorism, natural disasters, and the management of resource networks.

At MASA’s booth, visitors can see the following SWORD  demonstrations:

• SWORD’s capability to interoperate with operational C2 systems  will be demonstrated by the integration of SWORD with SitaWare Headquarters, a robust, scalable COTS command and control solution offered by Systematic. Both companies are presenting the ‘C2 Classroom’, a C2 training solution including a constructive simulation, providing course of action analysis, war gaming, and support in doctrine development.
• SWORD’s capability to interoperate with entity-level simulations will be showcased by the integration of SWORD with BIS’ VBS2, providing a virtual sandbox within which individual and collective training can be conducted.  SWORD will also be integrated with STAGE, Presagis’ simulation software that provides users with the ability to generate and execute complex scenarios for training and analysis.
• Various use cases of SWORD for defense and public safety applications will be illustrated on the booth, including command post training, officers’ self-training, OOTW training, emergency preparedness, and healthcare preparedness.
• SWORD’s demos at the show can also be accessible on an Apple iPad platform, as well as through Google Earth, thus showing SWORD’s strong ability to offer Common Operational Pictures (COP).

SWORD is also included in demonstrations at MASA’s partners’ booths:
At NATO’s booth (#2881), show attendees can see how MASA SWORD has been seamlessly integrated within Systematic’s SitaWare Headquarters C2 software using a prototype C-BML (Battle Management Language) interface. This project, which also involves the Danish Defence, will assess the current C-BML standard and propose recommendations to NATO’s Modeling & Simulation Group 085 in order to enable a more powerful integration between C2 systems and simulators. The new BML as well as the Military Scenario Definition Language (MSDL) exchange that will be integrated into SWORD will help to ensure a tight connection between the C2 and simulation systems.

“Year after year, MASA continues to make significant advances in simulation development,” said Juan-Pablo Torres, President and CEO of MASA Group. “Thanks to its interoperability, SWORD can be used in many different kinds of platforms and contexts, including in mobility, thus allowing for a large array of use cases as well as a higher degree of realism. Here at MASA the customer comes first, these latest developments to our product line are in direct response to what our users tell us they need: openness and ease of integration with their existing C2 and simulation systems.”

In addition, MASA presents the advances in the new version of MASA LIFE, its artificial intelligence-based middleware for decision making and intuitive, lifelike behaviour authoring. LIFE provides developers with the competitive advantage of cutting costs as well as development and maintenance time through easy content reusability. The next generation of LIFE will be launched during GDC San Francisco in March 2013.

I/ITSEC 2012 - CAE Launches Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Mission Trainer

CAE has recently launched its UAS Mission Trainer product, which combines an open architecture with commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) hardware and simulation software to provide a comprehensive, platform-agnostic training system for UAS pilots, sensor operators, and mission commanders.

(All Photos: CAE)

The CAE UAS Mission Trainer is currently being installed at the UAS Centre of Excellence in Alma, Quebec, where it will be used to train pilots and sensor operators of the MISKAM UAS. CAE and Aeronautics are using the MISKAM UAS, which is a Canadian version of the Aeronautics DOMINATOR XP, to demonstrate how unmanned systems can be used for civil applications such as remote inspection of pipelines and hydroelectric installations, surveillance of forest fires, observation of critical natural resources and a range of other applications.

"Unmanned systems are changing the nature of warfare and will continue to bring new capabilities to defence forces, and in the future will find a role in civil applications," said Gene Colabatistto, Group President, Military Products, Training and Services, CAE. "To fully leverage the capabilities of unmanned systems requires well-trained pilots and sensor operators, and integrating unmanned systems into the broader distributed mission operations environment. Our UAS Mission Trainer was specifically designed as an open, flexible product ideal for individual, crew, or networked training."

The CAE UAS Mission Trainer is platform-agnostic, meaning the product can be tailored to simulate any specific UAS with any sensor payload suite. Leveraging the common database (CDB) open architecture and commercially available technology, CAE's UAS Mission Trainer is not subject to any international traffic in arms regulations (ITAR) or restrictions. The completely immersive synthetic environment provides capabilities for training as well as mission planning and mission rehearsal. The CAE UAS Mission Trainer is available as an integrated product that includes:

• Ground control station (GCS) that is STANAG 4586-compliant; 
• High-fidelity simulation software for sensors such as electro-optical (EO), infrared (IR), synthetic aperature radar (SAR), and others; 
• Simulated communication systems; 
• Simulation software for generating training scenarios; 
• CAE MEDALLION-6000 image generator; 
• Tactical synthetic environment and computer-generated forces representing maritime, ground and air assets; 
• Instructor operator and mission brief/de-brief station; and
• Correlated weather simulation.  

"By addressing the often difficult integration issues and basing our product on an open architecture and COTS software, we have developed a cost-effective, low-risk UAS Mission Trainer that will help customers train and prepare their UAS mission crews," said Colabatistto.

CAE is demonstrating its UAS Mission Trainer at I/ITSEC on Booth #1433.