Blog: Virtual Reality in the Combined Cadet Force

Scott Benest, CCF Contingent Commander and e-Learning Co-ordinator, tells us how Alleyn’s CCF, in collaboration with the Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force, has begun exploring opportunities to harness the power of blended Simulation Software, Virtual Reality and industry-leading hardware.

Alleyn’s is proud to be one of the first schools to integrate Virtual Reality into the CCF training programme.

The RAF Section has been successfully using VR in its flight simulation suite for several years. Their setup includes an Oculus Rift and flight controls, powered by a gaming PC. This enables our Cadets to learn aerobatic techniques ahead of real-world flying opportunities. However, when the opportunity presented itself to collaborate with the Royal Navy, using BAE (Bohemia Interactive Simulations) software, Virtual Battlespace, we welcomed it with open arms.

Cadets enhance their cross-curricular digital design skills; mapping and modelling terrain and assets; and building events and scenarios that can be used for syllabus training. Hardware such as resistive flight yokes, weighted ships wheels and vehicle steering wheels can be combined with Virtual Reality headsets and gaming PCs, truly immersing Cadets in the experience. For the Navy, this looks like Powerboat lessons on the Solent or taking the helm of a Type-45 Destroyer. All of this happens in a safe, supportive, and accessible training environment within the School.

Last, but certainly not least, the Army Cadets have now bought into VR training too. Using Oculus Quest 2 and a popular military skills game “Onward”, Cadets work in small Fire Teams on our local network to complete simulated scenarios. The training is instructor-led and allows Cadets the opportunity to use familiar kit and equipment, while engaging in the whole-body experience. Building clearances, virtual target shooting, and simulated tactical planning is all made possible.

With limited access to MOD real estate, the ability to design, plan and practise scenarios is increasingly vital. The hope is that more schools and cadet units take part in the growing project, so that a national network of training material can be built and shared.

In Simulation and VR training, the aim is not to replace the real-world experience, but to prepare the user to make the most of it when they get there. Alleyn’s CCF has fully embraced this ethos.