2018 I/ITSEC - 9250

GLADIATOR G12 harness

Bern, November 2018. RUAG Simulation & Training is launching a new tactical simulation system that is lightweight and provides for realistic training scenarios. The modular standard product meets the vast requirements of modern armed forces, both in Switzerland and abroad, and will be available in stock as a deployable, complete system from 1/1/2019. Flexible hiring or leasing solutions can also be arranged for time-critical procurement projects. The internal costs associated with preparing the offer were considerably reduced and even small volumes can be sold, as the programme is excellent value for money.

Major armed forces tend to use low-precision tactical laser simulation systems – with kills and injuries categorised randomly – for their training exercises, as their focus is on general strategy and operational leadership functions.

RUAG live simulation

Our unique, patented lens technology, which focuses the laser so its keeps the same beam diameter over long distances, means that hits are registered accurately on the right body section during simulated combat training exercises. Injuries can therefore be simulated realistically, creating a challenging environment for individual soldiers or police officers, even when deployed within larger regiments. The GLADIATOR harness is therefore also popular for force-on-force training for elite units, which require realistic and precise fire and impact simulation.

Force-on-force training

This highly effective method of training requires participants to adapt their actions to their actual surroundings and to intelligent opponents in real time. Realistic combat simulation with real weapons is a core part of this training programme. Participants are aware of their “simulated” vulnerability, which creates a fear of failure. This combined with interactive, fast-changing and disorienting scenarios ensures a high-stress environment.

This experience helps participants to develop the necessary skills to react appropriately and quickly to any simulated event in a wide range of scenarios. Officers at all ranks can also practise and refine their leadership skills in highly realistic environments.

Protecting lives

Harnesses belonging to the RUAG GLADIATOR live simulation product range have been deployed by the Swiss Armed Forces as well as various international armies and elite units for over 10 years and are used extensively to train soldiers on how to use force in a controlled and appropriate manner.

Our products ensure a very high level of combat training that ultimately aims to protect lives, avoid reputational damage, and save money over the long term.

The G12 harness – optimisation at a glance

The latest G12 generation includes various improvements based on long-term customer experience as well as modifications developed by RUAG to adapt it to current and future customer requirements.

  • Optimised ergonomics

    The new cut of the fabric and the modular and adjustable straps mean that the harness can be worn comfortably over modern combat gear (MBAS, etc.) without there being any interferences.

  • 40% more lightweight

    The entire system weighs 40% less than the previous G11 model thanks to the use of more modern textiles and electronic components.

  • More realistic injury simulation

    By realistically simulating various types of injury based on the number of hits and where they landed, the bullet calibre and any ballistic protection worn by the participant, armed forces can practise and assess their modern rescue and triage processes, such as the TCCC concept currently being implemented by the Swiss Armed Forces.

  • Optimised modularity

    Thanks to its optimised, modular design, it is possible to upgrade the individual capabilities of the system. This ensures a low-cost basic product that can be expanded with little effort in future, for example by installing a positioning system and real-time data transmission unit. In addition, the system remains flexible and can be used outside the training centres.

  • Availability in stock

    Keeping the product available in stock means that flexible hiring or leasing solutions can also be arranged for time-critical procurement projects. The internal costs associated with preparing the offer were considerably reduced and even small volumes can be sold, as the programme is excellent value for money. At the same time, specific development costs for customer projects were also lowered, thereby reducing the level of risk.

    The product was developed in Switzerland and is currently produced in 3 RUAG Simulation & Training locations in France, Germany and Switzerland.

Product information:

Henrik Höjer, Senior Vice President Simulation & Training, Henrik.Hoejer@ruag.com / +41 79 560 87 24

David Steiner, Senior Manager Marketing & Projects, David.Steiner@ruag.com / +41 79 593 25 56

Information RUAG Corporate: Kirsten Hammerich, Media Relations Manager, kirsten.hammerich@ruag.com / +41 79 770 81 18

RUAG develops and markets internationally sought-after technology applications in the fields of aerospace and defence for use on land, in the air and in space. 56% of RUAG's products and services are destined for the civil market and 44% for the military market. The Group is headquartered in Bern (Switzerland). It has production sites in Switzerland and in 15 other countries in Europe, the USA and Asia-Pacific. RUAG generates sales of approximately CHF 1.96 billion and has over 9,200 employees – 400 of whom are trainees.