Bohemia Interactive Simulations (BISim), a subsidiary of BAE Systems, has secured a significant contract to supply its Virtual Battlespace (VBS) software for the Royal Australian Navy’s Hunter-class frigate program. This innovative software will play a critical role at the Royal Australian Navy’s Land-Based Test Site, where it will facilitate the evaluation of system integration and performance ahead of the projected delivery of the first Hunter-class frigate in 2030.
The VBS software is designed to replicate various operational scenarios, enabling the simulation of ship movements, sensor data, targeting procedures, and command decisions. By creating a realistic testing environment, VBS allows for comprehensive assessments of the frigates’ capabilities prior to their deployment.
Beyond its testing applications, the platform will also serve as a training resource. Once validated, VBS can be utilized for focused training exercises involving remote weapon stations, drones, and small boat operations. This strategic use of simulation minimizes the risks associated with live exercises while also significantly reducing costs.
Ryan Stephenson, the managing director of BISim’s Australian branch, emphasized the importance of synthetic environments in modern naval operations. “Every modern ship class requires a way to validate system integration and performance before deployment,” he stated. “The synthetic test environment powered by VBS provides that capability safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively.”
The latest iteration of BISim’s software, VBS4, enhances the user experience by allowing operators to create and modify mission terrains through an intuitive interface. It also includes a sophisticated 3D editor for designing complex scenarios. Realistic radio communications are integrated into the training modules, enabling more immersive exercises, while administrators can tailor any aspect of a scenario to meet specific training objectives.
Commanders are afforded a new level of control within the simulation, able to issue orders to AI units and manage avatars from a first-person perspective. Scenarios created in VBS can be reviewed in both 2D and 3D formats, with any performance data captured during these exercises being automatically recorded and made available for export to external training management systems.
This contract marks a significant advancement in the Royal Australian Navy’s efforts to enhance operational efficiency and preparedness through modern simulation technologies. As the Hunter-class frigate initiative progresses towards its first vessel delivery in 2030, the integration of VBS software is set to play a pivotal role in ensuring the naval force is well-equipped and thoroughly trained for diverse operational challenges.
