ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- The 48th Fighter Wing's Logistics Readiness Squadron Vehicle Management Flight at RAF Lakenheath oversees all government-owned vehicles on the base and is newly implementing the use of virtual reality to enhance training for new Airmen.
The innovative VR training encompasses vehicle maintenance skills and prepares Airmen for deployment by familiarizing them with equipment that may not be available at the base.
The VR system has been adapted to support comprehensive vehicle maintenance training. This system allows trainers to create customized training scenarios that mirror real-world conditions.
"This new VR training helps enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills for new Airmen," said Staff Sgt. Brain Knepper, 48th LRS vehicle management journeyman.
The VR setup is beneficial for pre-deployment training, enabling Airmen to interact with virtual models of deployment-specific vehicles. It's essential for Airmen to have familiarity with these vehicles before they encounter them in an operational setting.
"It offers a range of tasks from an oil change to an engine swap," said Airman 1st Class Brandon Boyette, 48th LRS vehicle management apprentice.
Integrating VR into training enhances the operational readiness and agility of the 48th FW. This accelerates the training process, providing a risk-free, cost-effective method to engage with a wide range of equipment.
The innovative training method supports the wing’s mission of rapid and effective airpower projection, by training personnel thoroughly before deployment and aiding in conventional readiness.