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MILITARY TECHNOLOGY (MILTECH) is the world's leading international tri-service defence monthly magazine in the English language. MILITARY TECHNOLOGY is "Required Reading for Defence Professionals". Follow us on Twitter: MILTECH1

28 January 2015

NDIA SO/LIC 2015: Realistic Live-Fire Training

Marathon Targets at SOLIC presents its latest solution: Marathon Smart Targets.

Marathon Smart Targets

Marathon Smart Targets address a fundamental training gap: The first time shooters fire live ammunition at a realistic moving target is in a firefight. Developed in conjunction with the Australian Department of National Defence (DoND), smart targets are now used by shooters around the world. With smart targets, soldiers train the way they fight: Against unpredictable moving targets, with live ammunition. Marathon robotic targets are autonomous, i.e. no joystick control is required, and this key technology enables:

  • Realistic, challenging and unpredictable motion
  • Responsive behaviour
  • Minimum infrastructure

With smart targets, soldiers train the way they fight: against unpredictable moving targets, with live ammunition. They are realistic because they react human-like (targets have human size, shape, and speed, are reactive to hits). When a target is shot, it provides instant visual feedback by stopping and dropping its mannequin. The target can also produce sound effects when hit. Smart targets are autonomous robots that “think” for themselves and move and behave like real people. For example, when one target is “killed” the other targets react by scattering to the nearest cover. After a pause, the “survivors” will emerge and counter-attack.

They are flexible and allow all training levels. All levels of expertise can be accommodated: from new recruits to elite shooters. All can benefit from shooting at unpredictable, realistic moving targets. In addition to basic moving marksmanship, the system enables training of other essential combat skills such as shoot/no-shoot decision making, rules of engagement, fire control – all contributing to Squad Level Overmatch. Scenarios can be short or long, simple or complex, repeatable or unpredictable. The system can be used for intensive training on specific skills or long-term endurance exercises, with any number of targets.

They are simple to install and can even drive off-road and rough terrain. One operator can control up to 25 autonomous robots.
Andre Forkert

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