Change Order Valued at $17.7 Million
Saab and Lockheed Martin have received a change order, valued at approx. SEK 160 million (US$17.7 million) to provide the US Army with modernised Vehicle Tactical Engagement Simulation System (VTESS) code.
The companies will update current Instrumentable Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System (IMILES) VTESS hardware and software to make it compatible with internationally accepted Simulation Interoperability Standards Organization (SISO) laser interface standards. This will in turn enable US forces to train concurrently with NATO and other allies now and in the future. The companies were awarded a contract for VTESS in 2017, with the objective of providing a system for soldiers to conduct live, highly realistic combat exercises using their existing platforms and weapons systems. The VTESS code modernisation effort will integrate one-way and ballistic simulations, and provide integration into a common optical communication architecture. Legacy MILES will also be able to interoperate with the modernised systems.
“This new capability will allow users operating in multi-national settings to train more effectively together,” commented President and CEO of Saab Defense and Security USA, Erik Smith. “It will also provide a development path forward to A-TESS; the U.S. Army’s next generation of Tactical Engagement Simulation Systems.”
“By merging multiple legacy systems’ capabilities into the VTESS product configuration, this multinational capability provides significant sustainment advantages, enabling cost-effective future enhancements and growth for our customers,” added Lockheed Martin’s Vice President, Training and Simulation Solutions, Tom Gordon. “The VTESS code modernisation increases interoperability to conduct force-on-force training, addressing current training needs while supporting emerging Army training requirements and systems.”
“With this order, Saab has further strengthened its position as a world-leading training and simulator provider. We see more and more of the US military adopting the NATO UCATT SISO standard, increasing their ability to train effectively in allied or coalition mission packages and at the same time providing an even more realistic training experience for the individual users,” stated the head of the Training and Simulation business unit in Saab’s Dynamics business area, Åsa Thegström.
