The Common Close Combat Weapon (C3W) Tactical Engagement Simulation System (TESS) for the Tube-Launched, Optically-Tracked, Wire-Guided (TOW) Improved Target Acquisition System (ITAS) Field Training System (FTS) is an advanced technology wireless training system that supports individual and Collective Force-on-Force training. The wireless communication operates in the military RF frequency band, and is ASMO approved and issued a JF-12. The ITAS FTS has an advanced power system that operates on an internal SINCGARS battery, as well as vehicle power.

The ITAS FTS provides training and evaluation of operator performance. Crews and commanders conduct weapons engagements as they would in combat, using normal Tactics, Techniques and Procedures (TTP’s). The system employs Vehicle Area Network (VAN) capability linking the TOW launcher and Wireless Laser Sensors (WLS) to the Instrumentation Player Unit (IPU). The ITAS Training Missile (ITM) contains and ATWESS device for weapon emulation. The ITM and Laser Module Unit (LMU) exchange data with the IPU via the Greenlinks RF network.

TOW engagements are adjudicated via MILES laser pairings. Training data is passively collected and telemetered to an Improved Mobile Command and Control (IMCC). The IMCC is a mobile workstation that receives, processes, and displays data in real-time.

The Missile Simulation Round – Anti-tank Weapon Effects Signature Simulation (MSR-ATWESS) training system provides Saber crews with a procedural drill training system. The MSR-ATWESS provides replication of firing a live round by using a M22 ATWESS cartridge loaded into the ATWESS device. The system will also support dry fire engagements when an ATWESS cartridge is not loaded into the MSR.

The MSR-ATWESS consists of a Fire Control System Data Module (FCSDM), an MSR and cables. The FCSDM interfaces with the Saber Fire Control System (FCS) for obtaining fire data. The MSR replicates the TOW missile, providing audible and visible indications of a simulated missile launch using a pyrotechnic device (ATWESS cartridge).

The Convoy Situational Training EXercise (C-STX) or Convoy Live Fire EXercise (CLFX or LFX) Kit, is a highly adaptable concept rooted in the requirement for Force-on-Force that precedes actual Live Fire training. The Convoy operations training is focused on replicating the rigors of the Contemporary Operational Environment (COE) soldiers face while performing operations.

The Convoy LFX Kit provides a one second or near Real Time Position/Location (P/L) and vehicle status report rate, a telemetric network whose size, through the use of repeaters, can be measured in 100’s of kilometers, realistic audio cues and its own legacy MILES 904nm detection system.

The OPFOR Vehicle Kit can be installed on HMMWVs to provide an effective OPFOR element in Tactical Engagement Simulation (TES) exercises. The kit incorporates a gun laser that emits MILES code that provides 'shoot-back' capability for OPFOR vehicles engaging equipped aircraft or other ground vehicles.

The GPU-2 provides interactive instrumentation to vehicles and other ground platforms for integration into Collective Training networks, and enables the vehicle to participate in live training exercises. The GPU-2 can operate either in a stand-alone mode using the supplied battery pack, or connect to 28 VDC electrical power supplied by the vehicle or platform.

The GPU-2 interfaces with all existing Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System (MILES) and other Force-on-Force systems. Contained in a ruggedized case, the GPU-2 assembly is designed for simple installation on a variety of vehicles, in gas or water can mounts, cargo racks, etc. Cables attached to the external panel provide interface with different vehicles or platforms. Visual indicators are supplied on the external connector panel for easy viewing of the system operational status. An activation switch is provided on the external connector panel for charging and powering the unit.

The GPU-2 interfaces with an external telemetry antenna and Vehicle Kill Indicator (VKI). It passively collects vehicle Position Location (PL), vehicle status, weapons engagement and other information. The GPU-2 supports adjudication of weapon engagement events via laser pairing for direct fire weapons, and geometric pairing for non-line of sight weapons and area weapons effects.

The GPU-2 internally processes Real Time Casualty Assessment (RTCA) and visually indicates the results of the engagement by flashing the VKI. The data is transmitted to a ground station that receives and displays the information in real-time and records the information to support After Action Reviews (AARs). The GPU-2 can be linked to other Live-Virtual-Constructive simulations.

The Ground Instrumentation Set (GIS) provides the capability for an Opposing Force (OPFOR) HMMWV vehicle to operate in the TESS system. The GIS contains a Smart On-board Data Interface Module (SMODIM) that interfaces with MILES sensor belts and lasers, a Vehicle Kill Indicator (VKI), Global Positioning System (GPS), antenna assemblies, and a TESS Ground Laser (TGL) that provides the player with a “hit”, “near miss”, “kill” and “resurrect” capability. The GIS has a shoot back capability provided by the use of the MILES training laser to simulate a gun. The vehicle battery provides power for the system.

The optional Telemetry Repeater extends the training maneuver area to link operational areas over extended distances. The repeater is a mobile self-contained system designed for easy installation and remote operation. All components are contained within a ruggedized carrying case housing a repeating transceiver, Instrumentation Power Supply (IPS), power converter, radio diplexer, GPS antenna, associated cables and brackets.

The repeaters operate for 24-hours from an internal, rechargeable battery. Additionally, solar panels can be used to recharge the internal battery for continuous remote operations. These lightweight systems are one-man portable and can be placed almost anywhere. The repeater transit case is equipped with an aluminum antenna mount to support the telemetry antenna. The antenna can be mounted to the side of the case or moved up to 80 feet away for better reception.

The TIS is a self-contained visual simulation tank target (Tank In A Bag (TIAB) and Target Instrumentation Box (TIB) which provides low-cost, realistic ground force targets for TESS training. The TIS records position and weapon engagement data and reports target status over the Homestation radio network.

The TIAB target is instrumented with laser sensor belts to support laser/MILES engagements during training exercises. The TIS visual/radar signature can be enhanced to obtain an Infrared (IR) signature by applying a heat source at the target.

The TIB is an instrumentation set for the TIS that records position and weapons engagement data and transmits MILES event data to the MCC system. The TIB enables the user to quickly instrument TIAB players as targets with a “be killed” capability. A target is instrumented with the MILES compatible laser detector sensor belts to support laser/MILES engagements during a tactical training exercise. The TIB can be placed in a vehicle to provide a mobile target. The TIB includes a SMart On-board Data Interface Module (SMODIM), a Vehicle Kill Indicator (VKI), MILES compatible laser detector sensor belts, Global Position System (GPS) Instrumentation Power Supply(IPS), an antenna and a telemetry antenna.

The Target Instrumentation Repeater Set (TIRS) provides the first and true, rangeless Tactical Engagement Simulation training system. The TIRS is a dual-purpose instrumentation set designed to be set-up and operated in two different configurations and modes. The TIRS can be configured to operate in a target simulation mode that interacts with other instrumented weapons systems; or configured to operate as a telemetry repeater for relaying information over large areas. 

Additional TIRS can be installed on vehicles to provide a mobile Opposing Force for increased difficulty. The TIRS operation and functionality are controlled by the internal Smart On-board Data Interface Module (SMODIM). In repeater mode, the TIRS relays telemetry data from any instrumented player and other TIRS, to each other, and to remotely located MCC or EXCON. The Instrumentation Power Supply (IPS) supplies power when there is no vehicle or AC power available, and can provide up to 12 hours of operation when fully charged.