RedboxVR demonstrates what the future of air cadet training will look like at the RAF Cosford Air Show

Introduction

RedboxVR and the Royal Air Force have harnessed the power of Virtual Reality (VR) to redefine the way that air cadets are trained, equipped, and inspired. The collaboration is exciting for both parties because it represents a significant shift towards using VR technology for training purposes on an international stage.
The collaborative journey culminated at the ever popular RAF Cosford Air Show, the largest one-day event in the whole of the West Midlands. Every year, well over 50,000 visitors are treated to a showcase of RAF skills, with the Royal Air Force Air Cadets staff team always looking for new and innovative ways to impress and wow audiences.
This year, RedboxVR, in partnership with Spawnpoint, unveiled a VR arena that transformed the static world into a dynamic, interactive realm. Equipped with HTC VIVE Focus 3 headsets and wrist trackers, the arena offered air cadets and potential trainees an unprecedented opportunity to immerse themselves in simulated environments.
RedboxVR enabled cadets to play a laser tag-esque game called RE:COIL. Team players were required to work together to beat the opposing team. They also showcase other VR experiences to highlight how these types of environments can be used to promote positive qualities of RAF personnel such as leadership, teamwork, and perseverance.

Hand-picking hardware that would deliver

Considering the popularity of the show, RedboxVR needed a technology and hardware partner that was going to deliver top of its class VR technology. They turned to HTC VIVE, specifically the VIVE Focus 3. The headsets offer unparalleled graphical fidelity, ensuring an incredibly lifelike experience. The headsets are ideal for quick use thanks to the in-built quick-release button but they’re also equally suited for extended use. The balanced design and increased pixel density ensure minimal discomfort for both the head and eyes.
RedboxVR also needed a headset that would work for a wide range of people. Considering every person's face shape and vision type are different, the HTC VIVE Focus 3 was perfectly suited to accommodate everyone who came through the show.

To keep the show on the road, RedboxVR utilised their in-house charging and storage solution. This took the form of a highly protected wheeled cart that ensured operations were streamlined and headsets were ready to go when needed. Each cart was able to accommodate up to 12 headsets, maximising efficiency and minimising downtime.

Complementing the headsets, VIVE Wrist Trackers provided an added layer of precision and versatility. The lightweight and versatile trackers worked seamlessly with the inside-out tracking capabilities of the VIVE Focus 3, offering enhanced hand tracking. This enabled air cadets to handle equipment and interact with virtual environments in a more intuitive and realistic manner.
RedboxVR partnered with Spawnpoint, a pioneer in freeroaming VR. Their software powered the untethered, arena-scale gameplay that was required for the show. Air cadets were able to roam freely in a dynamic and engaging environment.

To further enhance the realism, RedboxVR integrated StrikerVR’s Mavrik Pro haptic blaster. This innovative device delivered high-fidelity force effects, allowing Cadets to experience the recoil and impact of virtual weapons. This level of sensory feedback elevated the training experience, making it more engaging and effective.

Boosting skills and training cadets

The goal of this collaboration was to cultivate essential skills, from leadership and teamwork to problem-solving and spatial awareness, all while igniting a passion for flight. Utilising a game like RE:COIL proved to be effective in fostering collaboration and competitive spirit, qualities essential for any cadet.
As well as the benefits seen at the Air Show, RedboxVR has been supplying the RAF with bespoke Xbox-based kits for a new method of conducting flight simulation training. The company developed a portable flight simulation system, a groundbreaking departure from traditional, bulky, and expensive simulators. This innovative approach has offered a multitude of advantages.

The most notable benefits are portability and cost-efficiency. These factors addressed key challenges faced by the RAF in delivering comprehensive flight training. By overcoming the limitations of traditional simulators, the RAF can now conduct training in a wider range of locations. Additionally, the reduced costs associated with the Xbox-based system have allowed for increased accessibility to flight simulation training, ensuring a larger pool of cadets can benefit from the experience.

Furthermore, VR technology has played a pivotal role in overcoming the challenges associated with traditional training methods. By creating immersive and interactive environments, VR has enabled cadets to develop critical skills in a safe and controlled setting. Complex scenarios and real-world challenges could be simulated, allowing cadets to practice decision-making and problem-solving in a risk-free environment. This has demonstrated the potential to enhance the efficiency of training and reduce the reliance on costly and time-consuming live flight training.

An enduring partnership

Both the RAF Cosford Air Show and the provision of VR flight simulation software have helped in general recruitment efforts and showcased the RAF as an organisation at the cutting edge of innovation.
“This went down really well with the crowds at the RAF Cosford Air Show,” confirmed Larwood-Hughes, Deputy Chief of Stagff Operations for the Royal Air Force Air Cadets. "We can’t wait for more people to see and experience it at The Royal International Air Tattoo. Then we start the real work; how does this make the RAF Air Cadet experience even better.”

As the partnership between RedboxVR and the RAF deepens, the possibilities for VR in military training expand. From enhancing flight simulation to developing immersive maintenance training programs, the potential is limitless. By combining cutting-edge technology with a deep understanding of the RAF’s needs, RedboxVR is not just shaping the future of VR but also the future of aviation.

The feedback from the RAF was overwhelmingly positive. Martin Larwood-Hughes, Deputy Chief of Staff Operations for the Royal Air Force Air Cadets, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration:

Great collaboration with various partners that delivers a really engaging capability for the RAF Air Cadets to experiment with. Yet another item in the toolbox to bring the latest technologies to life. This went down really well with the crowds at the RAF Cosford Air Show and can’t wait for more people to see and experience it at The Royal International Air Tattoo in a few weeks. Then we start the real work; how does this make the RAF Air Cadet experience even better.

RedboxVR echoed the positive comments from the RAF, “We are honoured to once again collaborate with an organisation as prestigious and important as the Royal Air Force.”

This partnership is a testament to the power of innovation when paired with a shared commitment to innovation. As the RAF continues to explore the boundaries of what's possible, RedboxVR stands ready to provide the tools and expertise needed to deliver it.

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