Rheinmetall to supply new AGDUS passive systems to Bundeswehr for Combat Training Centre.

Rheinmetall is supplying new simulation technology for the German Army’s Combat Training Centre. Earlier this year, the Federal Office for Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) awarded Rheinmetall a procurement contract for 440 state-of-the-art “Training Device, Duel Simulator (AGDUS), Passive Vehicle” systems. The contract is worth a figure in the upper single-digit million-euro range. Delivery begins in 2021 and is scheduled to be complete by December 2023. The order underscores once again the great expertise of Rheinmetall in the field of training, simulation, and especially live simulation.
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TPz 1 Fuchs A9 AGDUS (Picture source: Rheinmetall)

By simulating the effects of weapons fire, the laser-supported Training Device, Duel Simulator (AGDUS) enables highly realistic combat training. It consists of sensors on the vehicle that receive laser signals; the central electronics; and a display and control unit. The systems enable highly realistic combat training through precise determination of the simulated hit location and a detailed damage simulation based on vehicle-specific damage models. All data and facts concerning the laser-based engagement are relayed in near-real-time to the exercise control cell, where the results of hits are depicted optically.

The AGDUS passive version used up till now is a cable-based system. In the new version, the “AGDUS passiv” vehicle target system features a wireless connection to the central electronics. The connection to the sensor modules necessary for detection relies on radio transmission. Furthermore, the equipment now includes a roof sensor that enables detection of hits from shots fired from above, e.g. from rooftops.

The sensor modules can be arrayed and expanded in accordance with specific training requirements. Encompassing the so-called casualty model which calculates the consequences of a hit for crew and vehicle, the connection between the sensors and the central electronics features a short-range radio transmission system. This is based on a proprietary solution from Rheinmetall involving a multi-frequency process to assure the stability of training. The signals are bundled and transmitted simultaneously via two or more radio links (frequency diversity). To assure the required stability, the transmitter and receiver operate in parallel, thus avoiding breaks in transmission.

The updated AGDUS passive features state-of-the-art sensors and detectors that are among the most sensitive on the market today. Their high sensitivity guarantees reliable detection under adverse weather conditions like fog, even at extended ranges of engagement – a major plus in all types of training operations.