How It Elevates Soldier Proficiency

For military training, especially with complex vehicles like the Stryker, effective and realistic simulation is paramount. The Stryker Crew Gunnery Trainer (CGT) is a comprehensive system designed to ensure our soldiers are not just proficient in operating their weapon systems, but also highly coordinated as a cohesive crew. Here's a summary of its key aspects and how it directly benefits our training objectives:

System Overview: Focused on Combat Readiness

At its core, the Stryker GT is built to provide full crew gunnery training, with a laser focus on developing the skills of the gunner – the soldier directly responsible for the vehicle's primary weapon system. However, its capabilities extend far beyond individual proficiency, encompassing the entire crew for integrated combat readiness.

What it is:

• Authentic Replication: The system features a highly detailed, virtual re-creation of the Stryker's driver's compartment and the Common Remotely Operated Weapon Station (CROWS). This means soldiers train with controls that feel and respond just like those in a real Stryker, minimizing the learning curve when they transition to the actual vehicle.

• Multi-Weapon Versatility: The virtual CROWS RWS isn't limited to one weapon. It can accurately simulate the M2 (.50 cal machine gun), M240 (general-purpose machine gun), and MK19 (grenade launcher). This flexibility allows us to train on various weapon configurations without needing multiple physical trainers, optimizing our resources.

• Flexible Configurations: The Stryker GT can be set up in different ways, including a standalone Desktop trainer. This allows for individual practice and skill refinement, which is excellent for initial familiarization or refreshing skills without requiring a full crew setup.

How It Trains Our Soldiers: Building Cohesive, Lethal Crews

The true power of the Stryker CGT lies in its ability to train soldiers not just as individuals, but as an integrated, high-performing team ready for combat.

It trains soldiers by:

1. Immersive Crew Training: It provides an authentic environment for the entire crew – commander/gunner and driver. This means crew members can train together, learning to communicate effectively, anticipate each other's actions, and execute complex maneuvers as a single unit. The system includes a fully functional weapon simulator for the gunner and a simplified driver's station to ensure the driver is an integral part of the crew's training.

2. Mastering Gunnery and Combat Skills:

○ Basic to Advanced Gunnery: Soldiers develop fundamental individual handling skills and progress to complex crew gunnery exercises.

○ Emergency Procedures: Crews learn and practice critical emergency procedures, preparing them to react calmly and correctly under pressure in unexpected situations.

○ Weapon Malfunctions: A key feature is the ability to simulate weapon malfunctions. Instructors can inject various failures (like jams or misfires), forcing soldiers to troubleshoot and apply proper procedures, building resilience and problem-solving skills.

○ Realistic Visuals: Training includes simulated sights and vision blocks, ensuring soldiers learn to acquire targets and maintain situational awareness just as they would in a real Stryker.

3. Dynamic Scenario Generation:

○ Instructor Control: The Instructor Operator Station (IOS) gives instructors precise control over training sessions. They can manage normal weapon operations and, critically, introduce weapon malfunctions at any point to test the crew's reaction and problem-solving abilities.

○ Platoon-Level Exercises: A significant advantage is the ability to network the Stryker CGT with other gunnery/combat simulators. This allows for realistic platoon training, where multiple vehicle crews can operate together in a simulated tactical environment, practicing complex formations, coordinated engagements, and command and control. This goes beyond individual vehicle proficiency and builds true collective readiness.

Built on Reliable Technology

The Stryker CGT incorporates proven, Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) products from KNDS USA. This includes the KMW Ver.3 Simulation Software, which forms the backbone of the system, along with simulated DVE (Driver's Vision Enhancer) and Simulated Periscope for enhanced visual realism. The use of COTS products often ensures robust performance, streamlined updates, and readily available support, which is a critical consideration for our long-term operational needs.

In summary, the Stryker Gunnery Trainer offers an unparalleled opportunity to train our soldiers and crews in a safe, cost-effective, and highly realistic environment, preparing them for the demands of modern combat operations.