Emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics are revolutionising the landscape of modern warfare, allowing governments and armed forces the capability to fight in all domains, from the physical environment to cyberspace.
As a result, the concept of Multi-Domain Operations (MDO) has emerged as a cornerstone for military readiness and effectiveness, encompassing military operations across the domains of air, land, sea, space, and cyberspace.
The need for MDO presents complex challenges that demand innovative solutions for training and experimentation. At the forefront of meeting these challenges is simulation and modelling software, which plays a key role in preparing military personnel for the rigours of modern warfare. These sophisticated tools enable operators to better sense-make, support force structuring, improve tactics, and conduct mission rehearsals in a simulated environment that mirrors real-world scenarios.
The MAK ONE simulation software is central to ST Engineering’s approach, a comprehensive suite of tools designed to redefine training and experimentation activities. The cutting-edge capabilities it offers are:
- VR-Engage: This technology enables role-playing simulations, facilitating immersive training experiences for military personnel. With its intuitive, game-like interface, VR-Engage configures simulation models into interactive first-person simulators.
- VR-Forces: The core simulation engine powering the MAK ONE platform is optimised to handle large entity count simulations across diverse domains. Its versatility and scalability make it ideal for a wide range of training scenarios.
- VR-Vantage: Delivers realistic and immersive environments for simulation, VR-Vantage enhances situational awareness and decision-making capabilities among trainees. Its advanced rendering capabilities creates visually compelling scenarios that mirror real-world conditions.
- MAK Earth: Leveraging procedurally generated terrain data, MAK Earth provides a realistic depiction of the Earth’s surface for simulation purposes. This enables trainees to operate in geographically accurate environments.
- VR-Link: Facilitating interoperability with other platforms, VR-Link ensures seamless networking connectivity using a protocol-agnostic network interface supported by the MAK Run-Time Infrastructure (RTI), VR-Exchange, and the Data Logger.
The modular architecture of MAK ONE underpins its versatility and adaptability to diverse training requirements. Each component plays a vital role in creating immersive and effective training environments, from terrain rendering to entity behaviour modelling.
With MAK ONE, simulators developed for land operations can be easily integrated with air, naval and space assets: they can also model non-kinetic effects such as those arising from cyber operations.
The platform supports whole-world modelling, including space, removing any geographic limits on the size of operations. Simulation models are available for platforms of all types—from submarines, ships, and amphibious craft to ground vehicles, airplanes, satellites, human characters, and the relevant weapons systems.
MAK ONE boasts multiple applications, from providing multi-domain threats to networked desktop training and sensor visualisation. The modules can be standalone or amplified when combined as a suite.
A future-ready training system
Recognising the need for effective training to boost its future-ready posture, the Australian Army decided to roll out common simulation software for its Land Systems (LS) Core 2.0 Program, with a priority on cost efficiency.
The Australian Army was looking to deploy a scalable and persistent Land Simulation System that could be accessed on demand to support their future training requirements across various levels of command and operations.
In their search, the flexible, practical, and cost-effective MAK ONE training solution met their requirements. The MAK ONE suite of Common Simulation Software (CSS) would allow users to achieve improved data warehouse functions; interoperability with Land Command and C3ISREW (Command, Control, Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance, Communications & Electronic Warfare) systems; and an expanded Land Simulation Network (LSN) for domestic and coalition training.
The CSS comprises three packages: Common Virtual Simulation, Common Constructive Tool Set, and Common Image Generator. The MAK ONE suite of products meets the requirements of these three packages, utilising VR-Forces for the computer-generated forces application and constructive simulation; VR-Engage for multi-role virtual simulators; and VR-Vantage for generating images and battlefield visualisation for developing situational awareness. Various other infrastructure tools were also included to stream terrestrial and other domains, record and replay simulations, and facilitate interoperability.
The MAK ONE suite of simulation software will also support all simulation fidelity levels, from high and medium fidelity simulators to desktop trainers, and part task trainers.
With a common set of simulation modules used across all future Australian Army training systems, interoperability can be facilitated from training commanders and their staff at the brigade down to company level, training crew members of armoured vehicles, to training individual war fighters to perform their specific roles. The MAK ONE modules include open, standards-based terrain, simulation, behaviour and rendering engines.
By harnessing the power of simulation and modelling software, military organisations can revolutionise their training methodologies, ensuring readiness and effectiveness in the face of evolving threats. With MAK ONE, the future of military training is immersive, dynamic, and highly effective, empowering the military to meet the complex challenges of modern warfare.
Find out more: VR-Engage 2.0.3 has arrived!
