Next-Generation Live Training: Preparing U.S. Forces for Tomorrow's Battlefield

As threats evolve and the battlefield becomes more complex, warfighters need training systems that reflect the realities they will face in combat and the technology of the future.

Saab's live training solutions are built on the NATO-approved standard and are already used by the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Army National Guard units, Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Capability (JPMRC), multiple U.S. Army vehicle – mounted simulations, 7th Army in Germany and allied forces worldwide. These systems deliver the precision, integration and real-time data that modern military training requires.

Precision training prepares warfighters for modern combat

Today's warfighters deserve innovative training on accurate systems. Legacy laser-based systems cast a wide net; if a user hits the middle soldier in a three-person formation, all three might register as casualties. That's not how combat works.

Saab's system offers the most modern laser technology available, delivering unprecedented accuracy. It registers which soldier was hit and where the impact occurred, then calculates realistic damage estimates. The resulting training builds the muscle memory and decision-making skills soldiers need when seconds matter and lives are on the line.

The system is also backward compatible with legacy equipment, enabling smart bridging solutions, integration and interoperability.

Real-time data for real results

Modern warfare runs on data. Saab's Exercise Control (EXCON) capability captures battlefield events as they happen, delivering instant feedback to unit leaders while recording comprehensive data for after-action reviews.

Another game-changing benefit of Saab’s advanced laser technology is next-level fidelity--qualitative and rich data at a time when we are just beginning to build strategies to leverage and manage exercise output for long term training management and tactical advantages. Current application allows commanders to review performance, decision-making and tactical maneuvers in detail. Units can identify strengths, address weaknesses and apply lessons learned directly to future training and operational deployments.

Proven across U.S. forces and NATO allies

Saab training solutions are technology agnostic, meaning that laser (primarily ballistic laser) and other technologies, such as geo-pairing and GPS, can be used. This leads to the possibility of including artillery, combat support and long-range missiles in future trainings. The live training also integrates drone capabilities into force-on-force exercises.

U.S. Armed Forces and NATO allies are already successfully using this capability. U.S. National Guard units conducting force-on-force training at exercises like Northern Strike are leveraging Saab's systems, experiencing the advantages of modern training technology firsthand. Saab also supports the U.S. 7th Army (DISE) in Europe with exercise infrastructure and training capabilities, including at locations like the U.S. Army’s Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center (JPMRC).

The United States Marine Corps utilizes Saab’s live training technologies through the Marine Corps Tactical Instrumentation System (MCTIS) and warfighting exercises, including the Marine Air-Ground Task Force Warfighting Exercise (MWX), held in February 2024 at Twentynine Palms, California.

The MWX training exercise included 2,700 Marines, 230 vehicles and more than a dozen buildings equipped with technology. The MWX served as an operational evaluation for the new force-on-force training technology and in 2024, the service deployed this technology add-on to enhance combat realism for infantry platoons and other land forces.

Beyond U.S. forces, NATO allies have widely adopted the training technology, enabling interoperability and multinational exercises between nations.

Building readiness together

As the leading supplier of live training solutions to land forces, Saab is committed to supporting U.S. forces and allies around the globe. With its world-class support and growing U.S. domestic production capabilities, Saab’s team continuously enhances its live training solutions by integrating cutting-edge technologies and the latest advancements.

When every training opportunity counts, Saab delivers the technology and support that turns a combat exercise into increased lethality and combat readiness for our warfighters who deserve nothing less.