Virtual Reality In The Military

Previously thought of as technology of the future, virtual reality is now a common, immersive multimedia used throughout many professional fields. It is essentially a three-dimensional, computer-generated environment, which can be explored and interacted with by a person. In this environment, a person becomes a part of this virtual world and is fully immersed into it, with the ability to manipulate objects or perform a series of actions. Virtual reality is often seen as being important simply in the gaming world. However, making such an unjustified statement is rather false. It has become a game-changer in many areas from academic research to engineering, design, business, the arts, and entertainment. The most important impact that virtual …show more content…
In the Air Force, virtual reality is used for training purposes by which complex skills and techniques are taught within a controlled setting. Flight simulators are used to teach flying skills, how to deal with an emergency, and communication with ground control. They are able to tilt, move, or twist to replicate the movements of an aircraft with fittings, equipment panels and other elements in the exact same place as they would be on a real aircraft. In terms of combat training, a simulator is used, as well. Through combat simulation, new recruits are trained in skills and techniques necessary to function effectively. The recruits wear virtual reality glasses or head mounted displays (HMD), complete with a tracking system that shows a series of images within the virtual environment which move as the recruit moves his/her head (Virtual Reality). A typical simulation will contain a series of scenarios, for example, coming under the fire whilst in a hostile location which the recruits have to handle. The system can even show changes in weather conditions which add to the sense of realism. It can also be used in terms for medic training on the battlefield, vehicle simulation similar to flight simulation, and virtual boot camp. By using virtual reality for training, the cost of equipment can be greatly reduced, especially in terms of Air Force training (Army Mil). In addition, when using virtual …show more content…
Prospective healthcare professionals are able to perform procedures in a controlled setting in which there is no risk to the patient. A popular application of virtual reality in the medical field is that of robotic surgery. This is where surgery is performed by means of a robotic device-controlled by a human surgeon, which reduces time along with the risk of complications. The use of virtual reality in healthcare reduces the cost of equipment used in training procedures and time to learn new procedures (Virtual Reality). This allows for more money and time to be devoted to medical