VBS3 v3.9.2. now supports new features

Bohemia Interactive Simulations’ (BISim) newest version of Virtual Battlespace 3 (VBS3) now supports the Oculus RIFT CV1 and HTC VIVE virtual reality (VR) head-mounted displays. BISim first implemented support for the Oculus RIFT DK2 in July 2015 with VBS3 v 3.7 and this latest version of VBS3 continues to support the Oculus RIFT DK2.

“Our customers are quickly finding clever ways to use the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive to fill gaps in existing training systems,” Otakar Nieder, Senior Director of Development for BISim, explained. “For example, one customer is using the HTC VIVE in existing vehicle simulators to allow crew members to pop out of physical representations of a turret during virtual training scenarios. Another BISim customer who uses a 270° dome wanted to provide forward observers with the ability to see a full 360 degrees and decided to use the Oculus RIFT.”

In addition, BISim has continuously made performance optimisations with every release to improve VBS3 frame rates when using the RIFT and the VIVE.

The Oculus RIFT is connected to VBS3 via the Oculus SDK and the HTC VIVE is connected to VBS3 via Open VR SDK. BISim plans to continue polishing the user experience with VR goggles in future versions.

VBS3 v3.9.2. now supports dynamic lighting, with thousands of lights rendered out to the maximum draw distance. This allows database generation of accurate runways and marker lights for aviation training. The new point light system supports blinking lights and allows accurate representation of anti-collision tower lights. Lights are affected by weather effects such as fog, rain and snow. Point lights in previously built terrain will automatically use this new technology with no additional configuration.

VBS3 v3.9.2. furethermore supports updated STRYKER vehicle models. “From our work with the U.S. Army’s Games for Training programme, we created eight new high definition US Army STRYKER vehicles with accurate HUDs, high-fidelity periscope technology with high performance picture-in-picture rendering, and more realistic vehicle access,” Nieder said.

The new version also includes VBS Radio. VBS Radio is now DIS-enabled for networked exercises, and includes support for replaying DIS radio traffic in the VBS3 AAR. VBS Radio also now provides the option to hide the VBS Radio user interface for trainees.

A new editor object has also been included that when placed on the terrain, affects vision in the designated area. The intensity of the effect can be altered in the object properties.

Furthermore BISim has added windage effects that impact ballistics and flares for players and AI units. This feature is turned off by default but can be turned on in the simulation settings. A new script command is also available to turn on bullet trails.

For more information please see MILITARY TECHNOLOGY #12/2016, available at the show on booth #2729; and frequently check back for more NEWS FROM THE FLOOR.