4GD from UK to integrate ChatGPT in SimStriker robotic targetry to train soldiers.

4GD, renowned experts in close combat training technology, have secured a contract from the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) to incorporate the ChatGPT language model into their robotic target system known as SimStriker. This innovative integration will empower soldiers to engage in dynamic conversations with the training target, enhancing their training experiences. Collaborating with their partner, NIAXO, a software solutions company, 4GD aims to develop diverse and realistic military training scenarios.
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Thanks to ChatGPT, training personnel will have the ability to engage in fluid conversations with SimStriker, effectively having synthetic dialogues with the equipment (Picture source: 4GD)

SimStriker, which commenced its development in 2020, represents a revolutionary generation of intelligent training adversaries. It has introduced a layer of tactical performance analysis to the 4GD SmartFacility, which is currently in use by the British Army's 16 Air Assault Brigade in Colchester. In 2022, this facility was actively utilized for over 1,200 hours by the Air Assault Brigade, Essex Police, and MOD police.

Presently, the target system is equipped with "hit-zone" sensors capable of accurately recording the precision and firing rate of soldiers. Advanced sensors within the body can also detect movement, light, and sound, enabling the target to respond verbally, trigger alarms, simulate non-lethal ammunition firing, and assume a defensive posture when engaged.

The latest advancement of SimStriker, leveraging OpenAI's ChatGPT system, will enable operators to customize or select preconfigured training scenarios. Training personnel will have the ability to engage in fluid conversations with SimStriker, effectively having synthetic dialogues with the equipment. Additionally, 4GD plans to integrate this behavioral dynamic with simulated social media feeds and other environmental stimuli, resulting in physically immersive and cognitively dynamic training scenarios.

James Crowley, Business Development Director at 4GD, commented: "We are thrilled about the latest phase in SimStriker's development. This contract awarded by DASA demonstrates that, in collaboration with our industry partners, 4GD remains committed to evolving our solutions to achieve optimal training outcomes. Our flagship SmartFacility was designed to inject realism into military training simulations, and by incorporating AI, we are introducing an additional layer of authenticity to urban warfare scenarios."

4GD specializes in introducing cutting-edge technologies to the defense sector, bridging the gap between operational reality and training. Their focus is on leveraging technology to enhance operator performance by increasing realism, offering scalable complexity, and delivering targeted improvements, all while making systems more user-friendly. Their solutions are already optimizing performance for elite units in both the USA and the UK.

Defense News November 2023