The US Office of Naval Research (ONR) has launched a new fleet integrated synthetic training / testing facility (FIST2FAC), a system that merges the virtual and real worlds to train sailors, at the 2013 Interservice / Industry Training, Simulation and Education Conference (I/ITSEC).
Designed to provide an affordable, adaptive way to train sailors for combat scenarios, FIST2FAC features a hassle-free setup, software and gaming technology to help naval forces develop strategies for a variety of missions and operations.
ONR’s warfighter performance department head, Dr. Terry Allard, said: "With simulation, you can explore endless possibilities without the expense and logistical challenges of putting hundreds of ships at sea and aircraft in the sky."
Capable of replicating simple and complex situations involving aircraft carriers, helicopters, lethal and non-lethal weapons, and more, FIST2FAC enables sailors to interact with artificially intelligent forces and train for multiple missions simultaneously.
ONR’s integration and transition manager for the project, Glenn White, said the FIST2FAC will help the experts be more innovative in defining what tactics, techniques and procedures will go into a successful A2/AD strategy.
"FIST2FAC allows sailors to ‘train like they fight’ by presenting realistic forces in a visual, tactical and operational environment," White said.
The system, which will address electronic, mine and anti-air warfare scenarios, can also be used to simulate anti-submarine warfare and strike group operations with aircraft carriers, destroyers and helicopters.
"Currently, all of this is shore-based, but the goal is to make this capability available on ships at sea," White further said.
The FIST2FAC is the result of partnerships between ONR, the Naval Undersea Warfare Center Keyport Division, US Pacific Fleet and the Naval Warfare Development Command.
