Virtual reality makes it possible for the military to train for intense combat situations, but technology needed is expensive in a time of defense budget cutbacks.
According to some in the virtual reality industry, virtual reality training is a means of cost savings for the military and won’t be affected by budget cuts in the future.
“It could translate to increases in sales for virtual training, because it is a more affordable way to train,” said Marc Foglia, president of NVIS Inc., a virtual reality display manufacturer.
“Virtual Reality training substantially saves our war fighters money by drastically reducing in-flight training, fuel, maintenance and ammunition,” said Joe Vilasi, manager of business development at Binghamton Simulator Company. BSC creates the simulations used by the military.
“Due to the cost effectiveness of the virtual reality training systems, more training is now available which has provided for a considerable increased proficiency level of the trainees,” Vilasi said.
The heart of NVIS’ business is the NVISOR ST50 head-mounted virtual reality display. It was designed specifically for the Army and funded entirely by the Army. And even though the development process cost $800,000, and an individual unit costs about $17,000, Foglia said he doesn’t see his industry being affected by the economy.”