At Eurosatory 2024, Guardiaris, Slovenia’s leading simulation technology firm, showcased a range of cutting-edge systems developed with input from the Slovenian Armed Forces. The company’s innovations are designed to enhance the quality of military training while simplifying logistics and reducing complexity.
New Simulation Systems Unveiled
Guardiaris introduced several new simulators at the Paris exhibition, all leveraging the company’s proprietary GUARD™ image generator. These systems aim to provide more effective training solutions for military organizations.
SAMT: The Next Generation of Infantry Training
One of the standout innovations is the Small Arms Mobile Trainer (SAMT), an evolution of the previously successful Small Arms Tactical Trainer (SATT). Unlike its predecessor, which used projectors, the SAMT employs stackable LED screens. This transition offers several advantages:
- No Calibration Required: Eliminates the need for complex image calibration.
- Enhanced Luminosity and Resolution: Higher picture quality with a 1.2 mm pitch, balancing cost and performance.
- Increased Longevity: Extended operational life from an average of 20,000 hours to over 100,000 hours.
The SAMT also integrates modular floor tiles and sound systems from earlier simulators. Additional features include the Guard Rail, a retractable physical cover, and smart glasses for tracking eye movement and focus. Available in a Mobile Training Centre configuration within an expandable container, the SAMT is designed for comprehensive after-action reviews and has already been evaluated by several Ministries of Defence (MoDs) in Europe and Asia.
JLTV Simulator: Comprehensive Crew Training
Developed in collaboration with the Slovenian Ministry of Defence, the Modular Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) Crew Trainer offers a sophisticated simulation environment. It features a 6 degrees of freedom motion platform accommodating a four-man crew, including the driver, gunner, commander, and a fourth operator. The simulator replicates the vehicle’s real-world conditions, including day and night operations and various terrains, while incorporating stress elements like mechanical failures.
Key features of the JLTV simulator include:
- Full Replica Stations: Exact replicas of the actual vehicle’s driver and commander stations, and adaptable for various turrets from manufacturers such as Rafael and Otokar.
- Physiological Sensors: Measures biometric signals such as heart rate, eye tracking, and pupil dilation for detailed training performance evaluation.
- Modular Design: Allows for customization to fit different crew configurations and subsystems.
Slovenia and Montenegro are expected to receive their simulators by late 2024. Slovenia has ordered 129 JLTVs with a goal of 161, while Montenegro has placed an order for 67 vehicles.
Spike LR Simulator Upgrade
Guardiaris also unveiled an upgrade for the Spike LR simulator, which has been in use for approximately 15 years. The Compatible Upgrade Kit is designed to extend the simulator’s operational life for another decade. The kit includes:
- New Electronics: Replaces outdated components like the MDVR 3200 digital video recorder with a modern tablet PC.
- Enhanced Functionality: Simulates all aspects of the Spike LR system, including lock-on-before-launch and various guidance modes. It also supports multiple launchers and can integrate a forward observer.
The upgrade kit is available through the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) and is already operational in Slovenia.