US Army uses virtual simulations to develop new XM30 combat vehicle
The US Army is actively using virtual simulations to design the new XM30 infantry fighting vehicle, which is to replace the outdated Bradley.
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In the Detroit Arsenal laboratory, soldiers work with digital versions of the XM30, testing it in virtual missions. One of the scenarios included a battle in a simulated Western European environment where troops from the U.S. Army's Fourth Infantry Division used four virtual XM30s in a 40-minute battle against enemy forces with drones and armoured vehicles.
The purpose of the simulations is to gather operational data and feedback from the military to optimise the design of the XM30 before physical prototypes are built. The tests revealed shortcomings, such as insufficient legroom in one of the suppliers' models. Thanks to virtual modelling, such problems can be eliminated at an early stage, saving time and money.
Computer graphics of the XM30 infantry fighting vehicle. Illustration: DVIDS
According to Jeff Kembers, Head of Modelling and Simulation at the Ground Vehicle Systems Centre, virtual feedback allows for 80-90% of the vehicle's readiness, and the remaining 10-20% is perfected during physical testing.
It should be noted that only two companies remained in the final stage of the XM30 development competition - Rheinmetall Vehicles and General Dynamics Land Systems, ahead of BAE Systems, Oshkosh Defence and Point Blank Enterprises. Both finalists offer models that can carry at least six infantrymen, be equipped with a 50mm cannon and carry drones for reconnaissance and strike missions.
This is the sixth attempt by the US Army to replace the Bradley in the last 25 years. The new combat vehicle is expected to be ready for service in the early 2030s.
Source: TDP
