ORLANDO, Fla., 19 January 2005. Marine Corps Reservists deploying to Iraq will train to recognize and respond to ambushes and roadside improvised explosive devices using the Lockheed Martin Virtual Combat Convoy Trainer (VCCT). Lockheed Martin will deliver a suite of four trainers to Camp Lejeune, N.C. in April.
Each of the VCCTs being used by the Marines will occupy a 53-foot, self-contained, deployable commercial trailer. Using a full-scale Humvee and simulation system that replicate scenarios troops might encounter, it will enable combat crews to communicate, maintain situational awareness and acquire targets while moving at highway speeds operating in a convoy environment.
"Training as you fight helps save lives," said Col. Walt Augustin, program manager for training systems, Marine Corps Systems Command. "Short of live fire training, the VCCT is the most realistic system we have to indoctrinate Marines in the hazards of convoy operations. This training will further enhance our Marines' ability to safely and effectively accomplish their mission in Iraq."
Lockheed Martin also received a $9.6 million contract from the U.S. Army in June 2004 for eight convoy trainers. To date, more than 4,000 soldiers have been trained. The new VCCTs, produced under a $5.1 million contract, will be modified to match the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (Humvee) being driven by Marines.
"We're giving troops exposure to life-or-death decisions in a simulation environment," said Chuck Woodman, VCCT program manager. "VCCT lets troops identify, engage, and destroy the enemy 'on-the-move' in an ambush scenario, while reinforcing the skills they need for successful convoy operations."
Lockheed Martin will again team with Firearms Training Systems (FATS), Inc. of Suwanee, Ga., to provide firearms that make the VCCT a comprehensive training device incorporating realistic weapons engagement training and networked vehicle simulators to reinforce crew awareness and communications.
Lockheed Martin developed the VCCT by integrating its Close Combat Tactical Trainer (CCTT) with the FATS small arms, precision weapons training system to bring realistic convoy training to the troops. Vehicle simulation for the VCCT is derived from software developed for both CCTT and the United Kingdom's Combined Arms Tactical Trainer (UK CATT).
FATS, Inc. designs and sells virtual training systems that improve the skills of the world's military, law enforcement and security forces. Utilizing quality engineering and advanced technology, FATS provides a comprehensive range of training capabilities that include small and supporting arms, judgmental, tactical and combined arms. FATS has previously delivered small arms training systems to all of the U.S. military services and numerous military and law enforcement agencies around the world.
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin employs about 130,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture and integration of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2003 sales of $31.8 billion. For more information, see www.lockheedmartin.com.
