U.S. Army Adopts VBS4 To Expand Virtual Training

Bohemia Interactive Simulations (BISim), a subsidiary of BAE Systems, has announced that the U.S. Army will begin deploying Virtual Battlespace 4 (VBS4) under a contract modification within its Games for Training (GFT) programme.

Established in 2013, the GFT programme provides simulation-based training to support mission rehearsal, tactical development, and leadership training. BISim has supported the programme since 2009, initially with VBS2, followed by VBS3 in 2014. A five-year enterprise licence was awarded in 2022.

The transition to VBS4 introduces a more flexible and immersive training platform. According to David Perez, GFT programme manager, the upgrade supports the Army’s aim to modernise training and integrate emerging technologies more effectively.

VBS4 is now in use across more than 80 simulation centres, schoolhouses, and home-station training sites. It offers a low-overhead solution for a range of training needs—from individual and squad-level exercises to mission command and staff development.

New features include an enhanced graphics engine, improved networking, a streamlined interface, and access to a global terrain server, enabling more realistic and scalable training environments.

“Supporting the U.S. Army’s vision for modernising its training enterprise reflects a longstanding partnership built on trust, adaptability, and a shared commitment to innovation,” said Pete Morrison, chief product officer at BISim. “This upgrade provides tools that help prepare warriors for the missions of today and the challenges of tomorrow."