Air National Guard purchases virtual reality training technology from Street Smarts

The 153rd Wyoming Air National Guard agreed to purchase virtual reality technology from Street Smarts, according to the Defense Department.

The Air National Guard is purchasing the Virtual Reality Simulator that includes the Air Force Qualification Course, Scenarios that are based on actual Air Force Bases, and includes specific training for Air Force Security Forces.

According to a recent Air Force article, The 380th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron became the first in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility to receive a virtual reality emergency response and shooting simulator.

The VR simulator enhances defenders’ ability to perform their job safely and effectively, according to the article. The system was adopted to provide simulated experience of common scenarios encountered by ESFS personnel. With just a headset and a simulated M-18 pistol, this system can generate different modules that test the skills of the individual using it.

During the VR sessions, a trained Security Forces specialist analyzes the progress from monitors that display what the VR user is seeing in real time. 

Alongside the VR simulator, the 380th ESFS uses a simulated weapons firing system that connects to a smartphone application and allows the user to track speed and accuracy of simulated gunfire. Scoring the techniques out of one hundred, it measures firearm fundamentals such as drawing from the holster, trigger pull and steadiness of the weapon.