Bundeswehr’s training system for Puma IFV.
German Military Approves New Training System for Puma Infantry Fighting Vehicle: Düsseldorf, Germany – The German Bundeswehr has taken a significant step forward in modernizing its military training systems, with the approval of a new, state-of-the-art simulation system for the Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) Puma. Developed by Rheinmetall, the highly advanced system is designed to replicate complex combat scenarios, ensuring that soldiers can train in environments as close to real-world conditions as possible.
The new training system, known as AGSP (Abrufbare Gefechts- und Schießsimulations-Plattform), will enhance the Bundeswehr‘s ability to conduct highly realistic training simulations for mechanized infantry forces, especially for the Puma IFV, a cornerstone of Germany’s modernized armored infantry.
Modular and Realistic Training Environment
The AGSP is a cutting-edge simulator capable of mimicking the battlefield experiences of a mechanized infantry grenadier platoon. It is composed of a command, evaluation, and control station (LAKS), along with four full-scale vehicle cabins that closely resemble the Puma’s actual interior. This ensures that soldiers can experience first-hand what it would be like to operate the vehicle in combat conditions, down to the finest details such as vehicle logic, ballistics, aiming performance, and haptic feedback.
The system’s core principle of “train as you fight” ensures soldiers train under as close to real conditions as possible. Starting with individual training for turret crews (gunner and commander), the system’s scalability allows for progressively more complex simulations involving entire platoons. Once verified, the system will be able to link with other simulators for company-level exercises, further increasing the scope and realism of training.
Scalable and Flexible Training
The AGSP’s flexibility lies in its modular design. The system is housed in twelve 20-foot containers, making it fully relocatable for use in different locations. Central components like server racks and driver cabins are mounted on rail systems, allowing for rapid replacement or upgrades as needed. This modularity not only ensures that the training system can evolve with technological advances but also simplifies maintenance. Crucially, main systems can now be accessed from the outside, reducing the need for costly factory returns and minimizing downtime.
This innovative approach reduces logistical costs and ensures that the system can be quickly up and running, allowing for more efficient and continuous training cycles.
Bundeswehr’s training system for Puma IFV.
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Cutting-Edge Software for Enhanced Realism
The training software, developed by Rheinmetall specifically for the AGSP system, provides a fully detailed, interactive replica of the Puma’s operational environment. This includes all visual and operational assets of the Puma, the ES modern infantry soldier system, and the Battle Management System (BMS). The software also integrates comprehensive evaluation and monitoring tools, making it easier for instructors to track progress and provide real-time feedback.
In terms of combat simulation, Rheinmetall has partnered with Bohemia Interactive Simulations, the creators of the globally recognized VBS4 simulation software. VBS4 offers unparalleled flexibility in designing databases and creating custom combat scenarios, and has been widely adopted across the German Armed Forces. This integration ensures that the AGSP is one of the most powerful training systems in existence today.
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Collaboration Between Forces and Industry
A key factor in the system’s development was the close cooperation between the Bundeswehr, the procurement office, and Rheinmetall. User feedback and suggestions were integrated from the very beginning, ensuring the system’s design meets the exact needs of those on the front lines. Rheinmetall’s Bernd Packulat, who oversees Land Simulation Sales, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, “There are many technical innovations in the AGSP, but the actual stand-alone aspect is the intensive collaboration with experts from the German Armed Forces. This has led to a system that precisely echoes the operational demands of the user – developed with and for the forces, not neglecting their requirements.”
This close partnership has allowed Rheinmetall to craft a solution that perfectly aligns with the operational needs of the Bundeswehr, offering a powerful training tool that prepares soldiers for combat in an ever-evolving battlefield.
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A Milestone in Digital Training
The adoption of the AGSP for the Puma Infantry Fighting Vehicle marks another significant milestone in the Bundeswehr’s push toward digital training solutions. Rheinmetall, as a leading provider of advanced military technology, has once again demonstrated its capability to deliver cutting-edge training systems that improve the readiness and effectiveness of armed forces worldwide.
With the approval of this new simulator, the Bundeswehr will be able to provide more comprehensive, flexible, and realistic training to its troops, helping them to face modern-day challenges with enhanced preparedness.
As technological advancements continue to reshape military training, the AGSP is poised to set a new standard in the field, allowing the Bundeswehr to remain at the forefront of modern defense capabilities.
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