Rheinmetall’s Lynx KF41 Infantry Fighting Vehicle is a state-of-the-art combat platform, and its training solutions are equally innovative. Training on respective simulators for the Lynx KF41 vehicle family is an essential part of Rheinmetall’s training of the armoured infantry and respective support roles of the future. The advantage for trainees and instructors is that training will be performed in a repeatable manner and always under controlled circumstances. That way, a skill standard for the crews will be defined, achieved, and evaluated in much less time compared to training on the real vehicle only. Simulation and live training, high-tech e-learning software, and dedicated support from Rheinmetall experts ensure fast learning and a high mission readiness in a “train as you fight” approach.

Foto: Training on respective simulators for the Lynx KF41 vehicle family is an essential part of Rheinmetall’s training of the armoured infantry and respective support roles of the future. | Rheinmetall

Training course system

The course landscape – individually tailored to the customer’s demands – for the Lynx KF41 family of vehicles sets the backbone for Lynx KF41 operators and maintainers. The courses provide Rheinmetall’s customers within Introduction Into Service (IIS) phase with essential operator and maintainer skills as well as Train the trainer (T3) capabilities. In the through life support phase Rheinmetall offers courses in alignment with customers’ individual demands.

Simulation systems and live training

The training and live simulation part of the Lynx KF41 training spectrum includes hard- and software that supports the Lynx KF41 training with a focus on simulation to enable cost-efficient, high value and safe training with repetitive yet individual training opportunities. It also contains training hardware e.g. drill rounds and part task trainers.
The array of immersive simulation and training solutions enable rapid and cost-effective preparation of soldiers and commanders. Simulators also allow operators to be faced with hazardous scenarios that can be trained in a safe environment.

The Driver Training Simulator (DTS) provides a virtual training environment created with the Lynx’s modular and scalable architecture in mind and adaptable to reflect future operational trends. It simulates driving in various vehicle configurations, terrains, and environmental conditions, and consists of a replica driver’s cabin with a motion system, display system, sound system and other equipment to maximise immersion. 

Foto: The Driver Training Simulator (DTS) provides a virtual training environment created with the Lynx’s modular and scalable architecture in mind and adaptable to reflect future operational trends. | Rheinmetall

The Immersive Tactical Trainer (ITT) is a comprehensive system for training Lynx commanders and gunners, featuring a high-fidelity driver station, turret replicas, and a highly realistic virtual combat training environment. The turrets replicate the combat compartment with the commander and gunner station of the Lynx, with all necessary devices, readouts, controls and handles of the sensor-to-effector chain. 

The Desktop Tactical Trainer (DTT) is a computer-based system built on Rheinmetall’s Immersive Tactical Trainer solution. This system provides the capability to perform all the operations and training that can be performed in the ITT but classroom desktop environment with multiple participants. The DTT provides trainees with an environment that allows for a range of training from individual to collective training. 

The tactical training is complemented by the Precision Gunnery Training System (PGTS), a laser-based hands-on training system offering live tactical engagement training. Its exact replication of the Lynx’s weapon characteristics allows realistic training at a fraction of the price of live firing. Laser-based simulation systems replicate weapons, ammunition, dismounts and targets.

“Simulation training systems for the Lynx KF41 are among the most realistic and cost-effective in the world,” says Oliver Mittelsdorf, Senior Vice President Sales at Rheinmetall Defence. “They comprehensively prepare the Lynx crews for the theatre of conflict, including driving, firing and commanding roles. By choosing the Lynx, and its array of advanced training systems, armed forces can ensure rapid and effective integration for a new generation of combat vehicles and its vast capabilities.” 

Foto: “Simulation training systems for the Lynx KF41 are among the most realistic and cost-effective in the world,” says Oliver Mittelsdorf, Senior Vice President Sales at Rheinmetall Defence. | Rheinmetall

Technology-enabled and computer-based training

The Lynx was developed with the needs of the future in mind. As such, advanced digital training systems have been produced to facilitate user-oriented, safe and cost-effective learning. Training software enhances and quickens the knowledge gaining process for Lynx operators in bridging the capability gap between old and new IFV types. 

Computer Based Training (CBT) and e-learning cover the cognitive and cognitive-procedural elements of training. Digital platforms bring the enormous benefit of repeating vital exercises as many times as needed, facilitating vast savings compared to live exercises. Computer-assisted learning programmes take operators through the Lynx’s complex technical parameters in a classroom environment and through self-study. 

Virtual Reality (VR) can also be used to train dismounted infantry in combat tasks involving the Lynx. The realism of this type of training comes close to that of simulator, while saving time and money. Such VR exercises teach the coordination of dismounted infantry, prepare crew members for operations in various environments, and ensure the ability of commanders to facilitate fast and effective action by firing personnel.

Rheinmetall Support

Rheinmetall provides Lynx customers with comprehensive training courses tailored to their specific needs. Lynx training has a dual focus: providing customers with the essential skills needed to operate and maintain vehicles, while delivering “Train the Trainer” knowledge allowing armed forces to independently train their own personnel, ensuring long-term self-sufficiency. All these training programmes utilise Rheinmetall’s dedicated Subject Matter Experts (SME), who guide customers through all aspects from initial familiarisation to long-term capability maintenance. 

Foto: Rheinmetall provides Lynx customers with comprehensive training courses tailored to their specific needs. | Rheinmetall

“Integrating a new generation of Infantry Fighting Vehicles is no small feat,” says Oliver Mittelsdorf. “When the capability leap between the old and the new is as wide as with the introduction of the Lynx KF41, it is vital that all involved in the operation and maintenance of the vehicles receive support from the very beginning, as well as for decades to come. Training systems for the Lynx are as innovative and forward-looking as the vehicles themselves. These systems – and the accompanying support from Rheinmetall experts – go hand-in-hand with the acquisition of Lynx vehicles to ensure that armed forces see and implement the enormous benefits and added capabilities of their choice as quickly as possible.”