Extended Reality in Defense: The technology driving security in Europe
The current geopolitical situation has highlighted the importance of modernizing armed forces. Russia's invasion of Ukraine has triggered a wave of reactions among NATO countries, and the European Union has accelerated the digital transformation of the defense sector. Among emerging technologies, Extended Reality (Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, and Mixed Reality) is playing a key role in optimizing training, strategic planning, and operational efficiency on the battlefield.
The conflict in Ukraine has led European countries to rethink their defense policies. In this context, the European Commission has urged its member states to increase their military budgets to 2% of GDP, aligning with NATO’s objectives.
This budget increase is not only aimed at acquiring traditional weaponry but also at adopting advanced technologies. In this scenario, Extended Reality emerges as a crucial tool for improving preparedness and operational effectiveness without compromising troop safety in real-world scenarios.
Applications of Extended Reality in Defense
1. Training and simulation in virtual environments
Traditional military training involves high logistical costs and significant risks. XR solutions enable the creation of hyper-realistic simulations where soldiers can train in combat environments without leaving a military base. This approach reduces training costs by more than 50% compared to field exercises and improves skill retention by up to 40%.
2. Real-time maintenance and support
XR systems can provide remote assistance to engineers and technicians for military equipment maintenance, reducing human errors.
3. Planning and strategy with 3D visualization
Military decision-making depends on having a clear understanding of the terrain and the enemy. Extended Reality allows real-time 3D analysis of environments, enhancing mission planning accuracy.
What is ARSOFT’s contribution to the defense sector?
In today’s context, one of the major challenges in the defense sector is the digitalization of technical and operational documentation, which still relies heavily on paper manuals or PDF files. EyeFlow, a platform developed by ARSOFT, offers an innovative solution by converting these documents into interactive 3D content accessible through Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, and Mixed Reality technologies.
With EyeFlow, Virtual Reality simulators can be easily created to enhance training in these processes, while augmented manuals can support operators during tasks.
This technology also guides operators during inspection operations, such as checking a combat vehicle upon reception. It can automatically generate a digitized report of the inspection process, which workshop personnel can later use to determine necessary repairs and replacements.
EyeFlow has been used to digitalize processes in major industrial companies and strategic sectors like defense, reducing digitalization costs by more than 90%.
The Future of XR in Defense: A Strategic Investment
As European countries increase their defense spending, adopting XR technologies is becoming a strategic necessity. The military XR market is expected to reach a value of $8 billion by 2030, driven by the growing demand for advanced training, planning, and operational solutions.
The path to military digitalization is inevitable. XR not only optimizes training and operations but also reduces risks, improves efficiency, and strengthens armed forces’ readiness in an increasingly volatile world. With rising budgets, immersive technologies are establishing themselves as a cornerstone of future defense strategies