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MOD Computer Games Save Lives

MINISTRY OF DEFENCE News Release (193/2008) issued by The Government News Network on 28 August 2008

Soldiers in the Royal Logistic Corps are to get a boost to their driving skills thanks to a hi-tech virtual training computer package, which will test their ability to cope under fire.

Under a contract potentially worth some £2M the Joint Combat Operation Virtual Environment (JCOVE) uses the commercial 'serious game' application called Virtual Battlespace and will enable the British Armed Forces to practise Tactics Techniques and Procedures for road convoy operations in a realistic virtual environment.

The package includes a Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) communication system to allow trainees to speak to each other through headsets as per operations, steering wheel and pedal sets for vehicle control and classroom control software to allow the instructors to maximise training effectiveness.

Soldiers learn how to operate under fire and how to react under a variety of events and scenarios including being under fire, road side bombs and ambush.

Minister for Defence Equipment and Support, Baroness Taylor, said:

"The MoD is committed to train the UK's forces in the best way possible within a relevant contemporary operational environment, with modern effective equipment that promotes confidence. The Royal Logistic Corps are the backbone of military supply convoys in theatre. This latest technology will help save lives on operations."

The RLC transports soldiers, combat supplies and materials across the battlefield. The drivers also provide security both within tactical locations and during convoy moves, so it is vital they have the most up to date training and knowledge to hone their driving skills.

Lt Melia, Force Protection Troop Commander 63 Sqn said:

"The JCOVE system training was invaluable to 63 Squadron Force Protection Troop's pre deployment training. It prepared the Troops for live training with vehicles and the challenges currently being experienced in Afghanistan".

Notes to Editors

1. VBS is a military training simulation developed as a spin-off from commercial computer games technology. VBS offers a number of functions simply not available in a game. It includes scenario generation and editing, to allow the instructor to change the training scenarios

2. Newman and Spurr Consultancy Ltd (NSC) based in Camberley won the contract for the Op JCOVE managed service contract, which will deliver JCOVE training to all Op TELIC and Op HERRICK Pre-Deployment Training (PDT) events in the UK and Germany, as well as training In-Theatre.