US Army Demonstrates Advances in Firing Simulations Using Next-Gen Trackless Moving Targets.

From April 9th to 11th 2024 at Fort Liberty, North Carolina, the U.S. Army's Program Executive Office for Simulation, Training, and Instrumentation (PEO STRI) showcased significant advancements in military training technology to senior Army leaders. The event featured the latest developments in the Trackless Moving Target (TMT) systems and Live Training Systems (LTS), attended by officials from the Combat Arms Center (CAC), Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Forces Command (FORSCOM), and the G3/Directorate of Plans, Training, Mobilization, and Security.

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Pratt Miller Defense TMT – Infantry (TMT-I) and TMT – Vehicle (TMT-V), both engineered to withstand impacts from live .50 caliber ball ammunition  (Picture source: Pratt Miller Defense)

Developed by Pratt Miller Defense, the TMT system is unique to the U.S. Army and features programmable robotic targets capable of navigating complex terrains and mimicking both human and vehicle movements. This cutting-edge technology is designed to provide more realistic training scenarios, thereby enhancing troop preparedness for actual combat situations. The system includes two variants: the TMT – Infantry (TMT-I) and TMT – Vehicle (TMT-V), both engineered to withstand impacts from live .50 caliber ball ammunition as well as 7.62mm and 5.56mm enhanced penetrator rounds.

The TMT-I is tailored for various training configurations, from individual to group settings. It operates silently with a fully electric driveline and four-wheel steering for agility akin to human movements. Capable of reaching speeds up to 12 mph, it supports interchangeable 2D and 3D targets, simulating diverse combat situations. Additionally, the TMT-I can carry up to 600 lbs, enabling the use of multiple targets to create complex urban training environments.

The TMT-V, capable of speeds up to 35 mph, offers enhanced maneuverability with its four-wheel steering. It features an electric driveline with an optional range extender and can support a range of target types, from light to heavy, in 2D or 3D. Customizable armor kits are available to meet specific training requirements, and they boast a significant load capacity of 4,000 lbs, covering various engagement distances during training sessions.

During the demonstration, Army leaders had the opportunity to see firsthand how these systems support live fire training exercises. The event not only demonstrated the capabilities of the TMT and STE LTS but also allowed leaders to interact directly with the technology, ask questions, and gain deeper insights into their operational benefits.

This initiative is part of the Army's broader effort to integrate more advanced technological solutions into training programs, ensuring that soldiers are well-prepared to meet current and future battlefield challenges. The introduction of such high-tech training aids is crucial for maintaining the tactical superiority and readiness of the U.S. Army