Dstl's VPG tests emerging tech used at AWE
The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) simulation capability, the Virtual Proving Ground (VPG), has enabled users to test emerging technologies during a recent Army Warfighting Experiment (AWE). Courtesy Dstl
The Virtual Proving Ground (VPG) uses synthetic environments to conduct human-in-the-loop experimentation. A team from Dstl and industry partners used the VPG alongside Army Warfighting Experiment’s (AWE) live activity, providing evidence beyond the scope of the live experimentation.
The experiment ran over two weeks at Copehill Down with 2nd Battalion, The Royal Yorkshire Regiment from Experimentation and Trials Group (ETG). It also included embedded support from international partner nations.
AWE technologies were represented across three capability areas:
optionally crewed vehicle (OCV) with a mounted 30mm cannon
intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, reconnaissance (ISTAR) uncrewed aerial systems (UAS)
beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) loitering munition (LM)
It enabled users to get hands on experience with emerging capabilities exploring their employability, effect on cognitive load and early development of tactics, techniques and procedures (TTPs). It generated evidence which could make the British Army more lethal, agile, resilient and persistent.
The evidence collected will shape the direction of future equipment programmes and is part of Dstl’s strategy to enabling operational advantage at pace.