#United States #McLean #U.S. Army #Bohemia Interactive #Virtual Battlespace

U.S. Army Expands Training with VBS4

On July 25, 2025, Bohemia Interactive Simulations (BISim) announced the U.S. Army's selection of Virtual Battlespace 4 (VBS4) as part of its ongoing Games for Training (GFT) program. This partnership, which has been in place since 2009, reflects the Army's commitment to utilizing advanced virtual training environments to enhance soldier preparedness.

The Evolution of Army Training

The GFT program dates back to 2013 and has provided the U.S. Army with a continuous and adaptable simulation capability. It is critical for mission rehearsals, tactical training, and leadership development. With the new VBS4, soldiers are equipped with an even more versatile platform for training. David Perez, the GFT program manager, emphasized the importance of adopting the latest advancements in training technology to ensure soldiers are ready for contemporary battlefield scenarios.

BISim has been instrumental in this evolution, moving from its initial deployment of VBS2, transitioning to VBS3 in 2014, and most recently securing a five-year enterprise license in 2022. The upgrade to VBS4 signifies a pivotal improvement in the capabilities offered under the GFT program.

Benefits of VBS4

VBS4 offers a higher performance and more visually impressive simulation experience compared to its predecessors. The new platform supports a wide range of training needs from individual drills to complex command and staff exercises. With its deployment across over 80 different simulation centers and training sites, VBS4 enhances the training landscape dramatically.

The upgrade not only enhances graphics and networking but also simplifies the user interface, making it more intuitive for users. Additionally, it incorporates a whole-earth terrain server, enabling more realistic and adaptable training scenarios.

These advancements support the Army's ambition to create leaner, more effective formations while enabling the swift integration of emerging technologies into training practices.

Future Outlook

As the Army navigates its third option year of the GFT contract, transitioning to VBS4 aligns perfectly with its ongoing goals to modernize training approaches. This relationship with BISim is characterized by a shared commitment to innovation, trust, and adaptability, vital for facing the increasingly complex nature of warfare.

Pete Morrison, the chief product officer at BISim, highlighted that the upgrade will provide invaluable resources for preparing soldiers for present and future missions. The U.S. Army's investment into VBS4 is a significant step towards enhancing the effectiveness of their training programs and ensuring that soldiers receive the best preparation possible.

Conclusion

The deployment of BISim's VBS4 will see a transformation in how the U.S. Army approaches training, ultimately fostering a generation of well-prepared soldiers capable of tackling the diverse challenges they will encounter on the battlefield. As technology continues to evolve, so too will the methods and tools available to those who serve the country, ensuring they remain at the forefront of military readiness.