The UK defense ministry has awarded Elbit Systems UK a contract to deliver a new virtual training system to the British Army as part of the service’s collective training transformation program (CTTP).
The interim combined arms virtual simulation (Deployable) ICAVS(D) that will be delivered by the UK branch of the Israeli-based defense major will replace the current in-service system, unit-based virtual trainer (UBVT), by April 2022.
According to Elbit, ICAVS(D) has the potential to significantly exceed the current capability in scale, size and complexity. Using defense virtual simulation software, the platform will deliver immersive virtual training and will help inform the requirements for the future replacement of the UK’s command and staff training (CAST) and the combined arms tactical trainer (CATT) systems.
The CTTP, which has £950million allocated over ten years, is expected to transform the management and delivery of training and soldiers’ experience of training. The army carried out first CTTP trials as part of the Army Warfighting Experiment 21 earlier this year.
Usable by both regular and reserve soldiers in the British Army, ICAVS(D) will provide the ability to conduct experimentation and collective readiness training, from vehicle crew to combined arms sub-unit. The platform will allow for rehearsal of complex operational environments in all weathers, terrains and environments, reflecting the range of operational settings and equipment expected in contemporary operating environments.
“Delivered as a full service by Elbit Systems UK’s training support team, ICAVS(D) will be able to support the British Army’s training at a time and place of their choosing. It can be deployed within barracks and on training areas, giving users significantly increased flexibility in when and where they are able to train,” the company said in a statement.
This contract follows Elbit Systems UK’s other major training programs for the UK armed forces. These include the Joint Fires Synthetic Trainer and Joint Fires Mobile Trainer for the Army, Project Selborne for the Royal Navy, and the delivery and operation of three types of aircraft through its subsidiary Affinity, for the UK Military Flying Training System.
“Increased flexibility and fidelity are crucial to the effective training of the British Armed Forces. Elbit Systems UK’s deployable, high specification platform will enable the Army, both reserve and regular, to develop and maintain operational readiness for a range of environments and scenarios,” Martin Fausset, CEO of Elbit Systems UK said.
