ChatGPT-Enhanced Target Robots for Combat Training
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The UK Ministry of Defense will revolutionize close combat training with its plans to integrate ChatGPT language models into its SimStriker robotic targets that are used for military exercises. SimStriker bots were developed by 4GD in 2020 and have already been used at the SmartFacility in the UK where they currently serve the British Army’s 16th Air Assault Brigade.
According to Interesting Engineering, the SimStriker robotic targets have “hit zone” sensors that record precision and fire rate, and so can provide valuable data for assessing soldier performance. These targets also possess sophisticated instruments that detect movement, light, and sound. They can vocally respond, raise alarms, retaliate with non-lethal ammunition, and drop on their base when engaged.
4GD recently disclosed its plans to integrate ChatGPT into SimStriker, thus enabling soldiers to engage in “dynamic conversations with the target.” Operators can either configure or select preconfigured scenarios and verbally converse with the SimStriker during training sessions, which is meant to create a more immersive and dynamic training environment.
This recent decision to integrate ChatGPT into combat simulation robots can be seen as part of a broader trend in military forces worldwide that are investing in technologies like augmented and virtual reality for cost-effective training.
Nevertheless, while virtual simulations offer advantages, real-world training is still crucial for building and maintaining operational effectiveness. ChatGPT being incorporated into SimStriker is an example of the latest evolution in interactive training solutions that is bridging the gap between technological advancements and practical combat scenarios.
The Defense and Security Accelerator (DASA) has noted the need for realistic training scenarios and the importance of adding ChatGPT to SimStriker. They also stated that the goal is to enable the targets to carry “synthetic conversations” with soldiers, an innovation that promises more varied, dynamic, and immersive training sessions, and will contribute to refining soldier reflexes and decision-making skills.
The UK MoD is embracing technology into its training, and this integration of ChatGPT into combat simulation robots marks a significant milestone in advancing the realism and effectiveness of close combat training for its armed forces.
This information was provided by Interesting Engineering.
