Army wants augmented, virtual reality for its armored vehicle mechanics

The Army is in the early stages of creating a multiple-award contract to acquire augmented reality and virtual reality systems for training mechanics and other maintenance personnel that work on tanks and armored vehicles.

A new Sam.gov notice describes how the Army wants the new training platforms for Abrams tanks, Bradley Fighting Vehicles, Stryker vehicles, armored multi-purpose vehicles, and Joint Light Tactical Vehicles.

The Army's Program Executive Office for Simulation, Training and Instrumentation will hold an industry day in Orlando, Florida on Aug. 24 to explain the requirements and gather feedback. PEO-STRI's opening presentation and one breakout session will be available virtually for those who can’t attend in person.

Attendees must register by 12 p.m. Eastern time on Aug. 15.

The Army is looking at improvements to three training areas: diagnostic troubleshooting trainers, part task trainers and hands on trainers.

Many of the current training systems are computer-based simulations and while they are interactive, there is no physical vehicle hardware used. Everything is done with a keyboard, mouse and touchscreen input.

With the new systems, the Army wants more interaction with real vehicle parts and assemblies.

The Army will use the contract to acquire services that include production, technical refresh, development, cybersecurity, tech integration, and management. PEO-STRI expects to field the contract by the second quarter of calendar year 2025.