BOLD QUEST 24: Mission Accomplished!
The Cervus team has successfully concluded nearly three weeks of Live-Virtual-Constructive (LVC) experimentation at BOLD QUEST 24! As data engineers, developers, and analysts, we fully immersed ourselves in this cutting-edge exercise while also taking an active role in supporting simulation runs.
Based at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, we supported the Koninklijke Landmacht Simulatiecentrum Landoptreden (RNLA Simcen) team in delivering an ambitious series of LVC experiments. These efforts integrated a range of systems over an HLA network, including:
- Saab GAMER Live Simulation System
- Bohemia Interactive Simulations VBS4
- Mission Combat Simulator
- Steel Beasts
- MAK Technologies VR Forces
Key Highlights and Achievements
This dynamic and challenging experiment tested the boundaries of collaborative innovation, resulting in several exciting technical achievements:
- Large-Scale Multi-Sim Environments: Created a multi-simulator HLA environment within a larger DIS framework, enabling seamless interoperability.
- JTAC-Driven Virtual Combat: Live JTACs controlled virtual platforms (AH-64s, F-16s, MQ-9s) to execute precision strikes on GAMER entities.
- Laser Target Designation in HLA: Tested the GAMER Surrogate Laser Target Designator, visible in both VBS4 and MCS simulators.
- ATAK Integration: Enabled RNLA soldiers to share simulated full-motion video (FMV) from VBS4 MQ-9s and drones with dismounted troops and other simulators.
- Advanced Analytics: Utilised the Hive platform to evaluate JTAC vignettes and ground combat scenarios from company to brigade levels. Hive analytics ingested HLA and DIS data, offering a hybrid approach to performance measurement.
- Maritime-LVC Innovation: Supported a live maritime patrol aircraft in detecting virtual targets off the North Carolina coast, seamlessly handing them off to a VR Forces Arleigh Burke destroyer, which engaged using a virtual ASROC RUM-139 VLA missile.
Cervus Team Contributions
For Cervus, BOLD QUEST 24 was a dual mission: supporting the RNLA Simcen agenda while advancing our shared Training Data Exploitation (TDX) objectives. The insights gained here will inform our 2025 activity plan for the TDX2 project, equipping us to navigate the challenges and opportunities of future blended training environments.
While some solutions will require improved processes and policies, the underlying technology already addresses most requirements. However, enhanced measurement and evaluation techniques for multi-simulator LVC environments remain a key area for future development.
Gratitude and Teamwork
This success was the result of an outstanding collaborative effort. A huge thank you to the talented and enthusiastic RNLA Simcen team led by Sander Cruiming, expertly coordinated day-to-day by Sam Jansen. On the Cervus side, special recognition goes to Edward Knight and Joshua Dobbins for their hard work and perseverance.
It’s been a privilege to contribute to such a forward-thinking and innovative team. As we return to the UK, we’re excited to apply what we’ve learned and to continue shaping the future of blended training environments.
Here’s to even more ambitious challenges ahead!
(P.S. A special thanks to North Carolina for being such a fascinating and inspiring host!)
