Using video game-like simulations to train fighting forces is not a new concept by any means; however, what is normally discussed in science fiction lore is also a very real capability used by the United States military. In this case, we are focusing on the United States Army, but such training is certainly not restricted to that particular branch of the service. When designing these simulations, clearly, a sense of realism is goal, something improved graphics and presentation can certainly provide.
With that in mind, Intelligent Decisions, a company that develops training simulations for the United States Army, has secured a license to use the Unreal Engine 3 to improve and refine upcoming training simulations. Intelligent Decisions will be using Unreal’s graphic capabilities in its Dismounted Soldier Training System, which looks something like this:
The idea behind securing the Unreal Engine 3 license is to improve the look and feel of these simulations, something the ID press release indicates quite clearly:
“Unreal Engine 3 will give ID’s training scenario composers the ability to integrate an incoming fire haptic feedback system, full skeletal controls, and to customize terrain, weather, enemy forces, and other treacherous aspects of real life combat missions,” said Clarence Pape, Vice President of Simulation and Training at Intelligent Decisions.
Who knows, perhaps the people at Intelligent Decisions had a sensitive reaction to some of the YouTube comments that accompanies their video is what spurred the product improvement. Whatever the case, when it comes to anything involving video games, even ones the general public won’t get access to, the trolls will come out from underneath the bridge:
Should have used Frostbite 3 instead
This is not Unreal’s first foray into helping the US Army improve its products. The Unreal Engine also drives the graphics in the America’s Army game, which is still free and still available for anyone who’s interested.