How the Department of Defense Uses Wi-Fi for AR and VR Military Training

HOW WI-FI ADVANCES MILITARY TRAINING WITH AR AND VR

The armed forces are increasingly relying on augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies to train troops. Developments within Wi-Fi are a driving force in enabling this digital transformation. In this guide, we explain how AR and VR can be used in military training and how Wi-Fi enhances the military’s capabilities.

HOW AR AND VR ARE USED IN MILITARY TRAINING

Military training can leverage AR and VR technologies to train troops, develop new systems and enhance complex decision-making. Here are a few ways AR and VR technologies are transforming military training.

Language and Cultural Training

AR and VR can provide immersive language and cultural training, allowing troops to practice their language skills and learn about foreign cultures in a safe and controlled environment. Through AR/VR technologies, they can navigate a simulated environment, collaborate with others and put their language and cultural skills to the test.

Boingo recently designed, installed and manages advanced Wi-Fi networks at the Presidio of Monterey military base. The networks enable AR and VR language training for over 800 Air Force pipeline Cryptologic Language Analyst and Airborne Cryptologic Language Analyst students.

Vehicle and Equipment Training

AR and VR can be used to simulate the operation of various military vehicles and equipment, such as tanks, aircrafts and drones. This allows troops to gain hands-on experience with complex equipment in a safe environment.

Medical Training

AR and VR can simulate medical procedures and allow service members to practice techniques like treating combat injuries in a simulated environment. AR/VR technologies enrich the learning experience, allowing for more repetition to perfect skills.

Leadership and Decision-Making Training

AR and VR simulations can provide training on leadership and decision-making in high-stress environments, allowing service members to practice critical thinking and judgment skills. These technologies enable realistic immersion into highly complex collaborative situations to maximize the learning experience while minimizing risk.

HOW WI-FI ENHANCES MILITARY AR AND VR CAPABILITIES

AR and VR technologies are part of an extensive technological ecosystem that includes rapidly advancing Wi-Fi technology. The latest generation of Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi 6/6E, powers advanced 5G services with high speeds, low latency, efficiency and enhanced security. Here are four ways Wi-Fi enhances military AR and VR capabilities:

Real-Time Data Transfer

AR and VR technologies require vast amounts of continuous data transfer. Wi-Fi enables the real-time transfer of large amounts of data, which is critical for AR/VR applications that require high-resolution graphics, video and audio. This allows troops to receive and process data from their surroundings instantly, which is essential for effective training.

Improved Mobility

One of the reasons AR and VR technology can be effective at creating a realistic experience is that it usually requires the user to move around. Wi-Fi enables service members to move freely within a defined area while still receiving and transmitting data. This means that AR/VR simulations can be designed to cover a larger area, creating a more immersive training experience.

Reduced Latency

Low latency is critical for AR and VR applications, as any delay can break the immersive experience and make it difficult for troops to react quickly. Next-generation Wi-Fi features low latency, which is essential for creating a seamless and effective training environment.

Enhanced Collaboration

For service members, learning to work in teams is crucial. Wi-Fi can facilitate collaboration during training exercises. Teams can share data and communicate with each other, creating a more realistic and immersive training environment.

POWER NEXT-GEN MILITARY AR AND VR TRAINING WITH BOINGO WIRELESS

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