Vanguard Magazine

14 DECEMBER 2025/JANUARY 2026 www.vanguardcanada.com S Y N T H E T I C E N V I R O N M E N T Application across the Five Eyes Military simulation has evolved dramati- cally over the past century—from the early Link Trainer of the 1930s, through Cold War–era wargaming, network computer- based systems of the late 20th century, and the digitized, immersive simulations of the 1990s and 2000s—each stage pushing re- alism, safety, and interoperability further. Today, this trajectory has culminated in the advent of the synthetic environment, which adds a new dimension to conven- tional simulation by integrating emerging technologies such as machine learning, extended and mixed reality, and advanced gaming engines to deliver unprecedented levels of realism. SEs replicate dynamic weather, terrain, and mission scenarios in real time, capture performance data for tailored training, and opens otherwise inaccessible, dangerous, or prohibitively expensive environments. By fusing live, virtual, and constructive (LVC) elements into seamless, adaptive experiences, the SE transforms military training from static exercises into flexible, data-driven preparation for the complex challenges of modern warfare. Canada and its FVEY partners, particu- larly Australia, the U.K., and the U.S., have recognized the value of the SE for force development, simulation, and training, and have begun taking the necessary steps to integrate and leverage this capability in future defence planning. Each countries' progress, however, varies considerably and the challenges (e.g., Canada's recruitment resource delays) differ across the spec- trum. Australia In 2020, the Australian government launched its Future Ready Training System, a defence roadmap designed to modernize the Australian Defence Force (ADF). A central tenet of this strategy is that training must be "engaging, repeat- able, and measurable, utilizing technol- ogy, simulation, on-demand content, data analytics, and feedback to enhance learning and workforce performance." Backed by a $650 million (AUD) invest- ment over the next decade, the Land Simulation Core 2.0 (LS Core 2.0) serves as the foundation of the simula- tion modernization efforts. It provides a unified simulation platform across ADF services, enabling more effective prepa- ration for modern warfare. Key features include cloud-based access for global training, millions of square kilometers of mapped terrain, highly accurate 3D ve- hicle models, and advanced collaborative graphics. Together, these capabilities al- low ADF personnel to rehearse complex, Joint All-domain Control and Command (JADC2) operations—including with, for example, future concept vehicles and systems not yet put into service—bring- ing an unprecedented level of readiness against potential adversaries. The ADF's emphasis on integrated live, virtual, and constructive (LVC) systems extends to leveraging data analytics dur- ing large-scale exercises to replicate both the physical environment and the electro- magnetic spectrum, while also incorporat- ing behavioural and psychological metrics to provide adaptive, feedback-driven, and personalized training. One key example is the Advanced Simulation Combat Trainer (ASCOT), developed by the U.S. firm Plexsys, which offers a dynamic, com- puter-based simulation environment. Its latest version, ASCOT 7, features a com- prehensive database that can be updated in real time, enabling users to respond to evolving inputs, refine maneuvers with im- mediate feedback, adapt to weapon system changes, and rapidly construct or modify training modules. United Kingdom In the U.K., the government recognized the importance of the SE in training and simulation as early as 2004, when it es- tablished the Synthetic Environment Tower of Excellence (SE Tower) Com- munity of Practice (COP). This forum enabled the Ministry of Defence (MOD) to work alongside academia and indus- try to advance the British Armed Forces' (BAF) capabilities in this area, while also strengthening ties with the COP supplier community. The initiative predates the BAF's most recent modernization strategy, known as the Collective Training Transforma- tion Programme (CTTP), which aims to "revolutionize" the BAF's training prac- tices via leveraging digital technologies and immersive systems. Valued at USD $1.41 billion over 10 years, the CTTP proposes a framework that will help the BAF confront a variety of scenarios in a surrogate environment. This, for example, includes a synthetic environment where cross-functional, intra-government, inter- agency, or even multinational coordina- tion and training can take place together in real time with live feedback and inputs leveraged by AI and other emerging tech- nology. The BAF is deploying a range of novel synthetic training technologies to support its modernization objectives. For example, Royal Canadian Navy Marine Technicians review the ship's pressure and electrical systems during a simulated blackout exercise aboard His Majesty's Canadian Ship (HMCS) Vancouver. Corporal Alisa Strelley, Canadian Armed Forces Photo, Canadian Armed Forces

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