Introduction to Virtual Combat Support Training Range

The Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center is exploring a brand new method to higher prepare combat support Airmen for future missions. This recent method known as the virtual Combat Support Training Range, or vCSTR. The vCSTR delivers an on-demand, immersive, and interactive virtual environment that simulates real-world combat scenarios for training purposes.

Bridging Gaps with Virtual Innovation

The vCSTR was developed in partnership with Street Smarts VR to boost combat support readiness by supplementing traditional field exercises. Although physical Combat Support Training Ranges provide realistic environments, they’re limited by availability, travel requirements, and resource constraints. Virtual access helps overcome these limitations by increasing training frequency and adaptability.

Overcoming Limitations

Major Tiffany Lewis, CSTR program office, explained that the system expands capability and allows Airmen to get in those extra sets and reps in a virtual environment. This is very essential since not everyone can physically go to a CSTR site repeatedly. The vCSTR enables Airmen to coach more ceaselessly and in a more flexible manner.

Training for Real-World Missions

The vCSTR immerses Airmen in dynamic scenarios, replicating the challenges of combat support operations in diverse environments. The initial modules concentrate on Air Force Force Generation 100–200 level training tasks and support Ready Airman Training and Air Force Unit of Action objectives in 4 key areas:

• Command and Control: Mastering communication protocols, making time-sensitive decisions, and coordinating resources under pressure.
• Integrated Base Defense: Conducting security assessments, responding to simulated attacks, and practicing critical defensive tactics.
• Base Recovery After Attack: Executing post-attack reconnaissance, identifying and marking hazards, assessing damage, and coordinating casualty care in high-stress environments.
• Rapid Airfield Damage Repair: Evaluating damage to runways and infrastructure, prioritizing repairs, and executing techniques to revive operational capability under difficult conditions.

Initial Testing and Evaluation

Airmen from the twenty third Air Task Force recently tested the system during a training event. The feedback was positive, highlighting the system’s ability to securely and effectively replicate complex combat support tasks in a scalable virtual environment. Master Sgt. Cody Medsker, air transportation advisor for the twenty third ATF, found the vCSTR really useful for developing his multitasking and communication skills.

Looking Ahead

The Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center is exploring the potential for vCSTR to evolve right into a credentialed, enterprise-wide training capability. The system can rapidly deliver recent features and capabilities, including:

• Multi-User Concurrency: Expanding beyond individual use to large-scale, networked training events.
• Mixed Reality Integration: Leveraging augmented overlays and connected weapons/equipment for more tactile and immersive training.
• AI-Driven Adaptive Scenarios: Intelligent virtual role players and dynamic scenario generation that adjust in real time to Airman performance.
• Expanded Training Library: Covering all 12 Ready Airman Training areas.
• Persistent Proficiency Tracking: Capturing and credentialing outcomes for commanders, ensuring readiness is measurable across the AFFORGEN cycle.
• Joint and Coalition Interoperability: Supporting training with joint and partner forces, enabling broader interoperability.

Conclusion

The virtual Combat Support Training Range has the potential to revolutionize the best way combat support Airmen train for future missions. With its immersive and interactive virtual environment, the vCSTR can provide Airmen with the talents and experience they need to reach real-world combat scenarios. As the system continues to evolve and expand, it might change into a cornerstone of combat support readiness, enabling the Air Force to coach more effectively and efficiently.