ORLANDO, Fla (USA) - Bohemia Interactive Simulations (BISim), a global developer of advanced simulation and training software, announced today at I/ITSEC 2019 that Priority 1 Air Rescue, a world leader in helicopter search-and-rescue (SAR) operational support and training, will leverage BISim’s VBS4 and VBS Blue IG to develop virtual reality collective crew training (pilot/copilot and crew), search-and-rescue, gunnery, precision marksmanship and tactical training systems for their worldwide training academies.
Priority 1 Air Rescue (P1AR) currently trains many domestic organizations, including the United States Coast Guard in search and rescue (SAR) hoisting operations. P1AR also trains multiple European MOD agencies in combat search and rescue (CSAR), aerial gunnery, and precision marksmanship. P1AR operates two world-class Search and Rescue/Tactical training academies (SART/TAC) in Mesa, Arizona, and Bordeaux, France. In 2020, P1AR plans to offer another phase to their full spectrum of training with a new VBS4 and VBS Blue IG-based simulator that can be deployed directly to customers’ facilities for training. The new training will reduce the flight hours needed to train the crew.
VBS4 is BISim’s next-generation whole-earth virtual desktop trainer and simulation host. VBS4 is based on BISim’s VBS3 platform, which has evolved over the years to the most widely used virtual desktop trainer around the world, supplying NATO and NATO-friendly militaries. VBS Blue IG is BISim’s whole-earth image generator, which can be used across full-motion trainers, VR/AR solutions and individual part-task trainers with multiple synchronized displays. BISim, working closely with P1AR subject matter experts, will develop advanced simulation software available to enable pilots, gunners, snipers and rear crews to engage in search and rescue operations, gunnery operations, aerial sniper operations/marksmanship, and collective training tasks within the virtual environment.
“Since 2012, we have been working to perfect the application and delivery methods for our specialized field of synthetic mission training and believe VBS4 will bring significantly enhanced capability and innovation for our training systems,” said Priority 1 Air Rescue’s President Brad Matheson. “The effective and close working relationship we have with Bohemia Interactive Simulations has made it easier to stay on the forefront of simulation training.”
“We’re honored to count Priority 1 Air Rescue among the early adopters of VBS4,” said BISim CEO Arthur Alexion. “In addition to giving Priority 1 the ability to train SAR personnel anywhere on the virtual Earth, VBS4 is supported by the VBS Simulation SDK, which includes a powerful and flexible set of APIs that will enable Priority 1 to extend and customize their training systems as their customers’ needs require.”
About Bohemia Interactive Simulations
Founded in 2001, Bohemia Interactive Simulations (BISim) is a global software company at the forefront of simulation and training solutions for defense and civilian organizations. Our mission is to harness the explosive potential of technology to revolutionize training and simulation. With origins in the commercial video game industry, BISim utilizes the latest game-based technology and a large, experienced in-house team of engineers to develop high-fidelity, cost-effective training and simulation software products and components for defense applications.
About Priority 1 Air Rescue
Priority 1 Air Rescue (P1AR) is solely focused on helicopter SAR and tactical operational support and mission training. With over 20 years of experience, P1AR has provided mission training to over 9,000 civil, para-public, and military course participants worldwide. P1AR’s competitive advantages include comprehensive academic programs, eLearning, instructor-led training, and employing innovative technology to deliver courses in a very progressive manner to improve the overall training experience for students. In addition to its full-time training and support staff, P1AR provides full-time hoist system operators, helicopter rescue swimmers, and paramedics for helicopter SAR/ Medevac programs around the world.