MBF Group In an era of increasing tactical demands and rapidly changing operational conditions, artillery training must combine realism, safety and cost-effectiveness. Traditional exercises using real munitions are becoming more expensive and logistically difficult – requiring training grounds, transportation, technical support and time. In such a reality, simulation systems offer a viable alternative: they allow repeated, repeatable and safe training while reducing costs and risks. ARES is being developed as a response to these challenges – a modern artillery simulator and trainer that can become the basis of modern fire training.
ARES (Artillery Revolutionary Engagement Simulator) is an advanced training platform aimed at artillery subunits – from individual gun crews to batteries to entire squadrons. Target users include land forces from large armies as well as smaller formations in need of effective, repeatable training. The system is designed to faithfully replicate the procedures of command, fire planning, communication, as well as the work of observers and firefighters. This way, commanders, gun crews, and subunits can be trained – under near-real conditions, without consuming ammunition or involving training grounds.
Architecture and realism of the simulation
The nucleus of ARES is a network of simulation sites linked by a common tactical environment. Each position imitates real elements of the artillery system – command instruments, FDC terminals, fire observation instruments, communication channels. Users work on interfaces similar to those they will find in combat conditions, which minimizes the “metastasis effect” (skill transfer): skills developed in the simulator are easily translated into real-world operations.
The ballistic model, which takes into account terrain and meteorological conditions and the type of ammunition, allows simulating realistic trajectories, flare effects and effects of fire – for different armaments, calibers and fuse types. Instructors have the ability to dynamically modify conditions: changes in wind, visibility, terrain, communications interference – allowing them to train to respond to the chaos and uncertainty of the battlefield. Scenarios can be repeated many times, with minor modifications to improve procedures and adaptation.
The ARES architecture also assumes scalability – from a small training center with a few stations to a comprehensive training center serving either batteries or squadrons. The system can be combined with other simulators (e.g., for ground troops, vehicles, aviation or support), making it part of the live-virtual-constructive (LVC) concept. This means that the same exercise can be played partly on the training ground, partly in a simulation, and partly by a computer – as needed.
Operational and tactical advantages during training
With ARES, units can practice scenarios that – in the real world – would be too risky, costly or logistically unviable. Counter-battery support, fire in a built-up area, responding to dynamic conditions – all this can be practiced in a safe, controlled environment. Mistakes don’t cost equipment or lives – they become material for learning, correcting and improving procedures.
Repeatability of training is another key advantage. The same scenario can be run dozens of times, with minor changes in parameters – allowing crews to become proficient, test different variants of operations, and the command to evaluate the effectiveness of procedures. After each session, the system generates reports and analysis, which are used for the so-called “analysis”. After action review – a thorough evaluation of activities, identification of errors and planning of the next stages of training.
From an economic perspective – ARES allows to significantly reduce the cost of training. Ammunition consumption, equipment consumption, logistics, transportation, fuel consumption, training ground preparation – all of these can be reduced or eliminated altogether. With intensive training, such annual savings can be significant.
Simulator and trainer market – global trends and forecasts
The market for military simulation and training is growing rapidly. The global simulator and training systems market is estimated to be worth about $13.6 billion by 2025, according to recent reports. Mordor Intelligence | Global Market Insights Inc. Forecasts indicate that it could exceed $20-22 billion by 2030-2034, corresponding to a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5-7%.
It is worth noting that the “land-based” segment (land forces, including artillery) – to which ARES belongs – represents a significant part of this market. In 2024, ground solutions accounted for the largest share of the simulator market, due to the large number of operators, vehicle crews and ground units requiring regular training. Rising defense spending, modernization of the armed forces, and the need for rapid adaptation of new weapons systems are among the main factors driving demand. In addition, solutions that are economical, safe and allow for intensive training without consuming actual ammunition and equipment are increasingly being sought. globenewswire.com | fortunebusinessinsights.com
VR/AR, artificial intelligence, advanced simulation and LVC integration technologies are accelerating the adoption of modern training systems. Many armies today are opting for a mixed approach – part training in simulation, part real-world exercises – which allows them to increase the speed and intensity of preparation without a commensurate increase in cost. Arizton Advisory & Intelligence | Global Market Insights Inc.
Because of these trends, the outlook for the artillery simulator segment is very favorable. It is assumed that in the coming years land units – especially artillery, mechanized units and support battalions – will increasingly turn to solutions such as ARES. With the increase in the number of formations, the need for rapid training, and the growing emphasis on cost efficiency, demand for such systems is expected to grow significantly.
An analysis of the cost of training with a simulator compared to traditional training indicates that even at moderate training intensities, the return on investment (ROI) time can be relatively short – especially in armies that previously conducted intensive training with practice or live ammunition. In addition, when you consider the logistical costs, depreciation of equipment, fuel consumption, securing training grounds – the simulator becomes not only cost-effective, but often the optimal choice.
In the global context, the increase in demand for simulators and trainers is also due to growing geopolitical uncertainty, the need to maintain readiness and the ability to quickly train new soldiers. Many armies are choosing to purchase LVC systems to respond flexibly to the changing strategic situation. This makes the simulation segment one of the fastest growing elements of the defense budget.
Why ARES – competitive and strategic advantages
ARES is distinguished by several key features that can give it an edge over the competition. First – comprehensiveness: the simulation covers the entire cycle of artillery operations – from planning, observation, command and evaluation of fire effects. It’s more than “shooting a target in virtual space” – it’s a simulation of the entire operational process.
Second – the realism of interfaces and procedures. Users work on tools available in real artillery command systems, which translates into real skill transfer. This level of realism reduces training time and increases the operational readiness of crews.
Third – flexibility and scalability. ARES can be implemented in the form of individual training stations, small centers or large training centers. Its ability to integrate with other systems (vehicles, WSparation, aviation, communications) makes it compatible with modern LVC doctrine.
Fourth – cost and logistical efficiency. With the help of simulation, the use of real ammunition, consumption of equipment, costs of transportation, fuel, organization of training grounds can be significantly reduced. This is especially important in conditions of limited budgets or intensive training.
Fifth – the possibility of dynamic adaptation of scenarios. The instructor can change conditions: weather, terrain conditions, hazards, reaction time – allowing to practice actions in a wide variety of conditions, including extreme or non-standard ones.
For modernizing armed forces, ARES can be part of a transformation of training: from a model of “sporadic, expensive real-world fire” to one of “continuous, repetitive, automated training.” This allows crews to reach a high level of readiness in a shorter period of time, while training costs and risks are reduced.
ARES as a strategic investment in readiness and efficiency
In light of the growing importance of simulation and training in defense budgets, ARES appears to be a modern, cost-effective and future-proof solution. Its architecture, flexibility and functionality meet the real needs of modern artillery and land formations.
Global trends – rising defense budgets, the drive to reduce costs and risks, and the need to train new units quickly – mean that the simulator market will continue to grow rapidly. In this context, ARES has a real chance to gain importance, especially in armies modernizing or adapting to new realities.
For policymakers, commands, planners and industrial partners, ARES can be part of a broader strategy: building a modern training system that combines technology, flexibility, realism and economics. In the long run, investment in such a system can bring tangible benefits – in the form of better operational readiness, faster training of crews, reduction of fixed and logistical costs.
