Facebook Thales has secured a major contract to modernise the TACTIS (Tactical Indoor Simulator) training centre for armoured vehicles used by the Royal Netherlands Army, one of the most advanced training centres in the world.
This strategic project equips the Dutch land forces with cutting-edge AI technologies based on advanced behavioural engines and terrain reasoning algorithms, as well as ultra-realistic training environments, enhancing their training for complex missions and improving their overall readiness.
The contract consolidates Thaless role as the world leader in virtual simulation systems for armoured fighting vehicles.
Copyright COMMIT / Royal Netherlands Army With the return of symmetric and high-intensity combat on the battlefield, the importance of armoured vehicles is now more crucial than ever. Thaless TACTIS solution effectively addresses the needs of armed forces, offering a comprehensive range of training capabilities, from individual technical skills to tactical proficiency at a company level. This includes a mobile component that enables the deployment of high-fidelity simulators in military barracks or any other location.
The TACTIS centre is uniquely capable of interconnecting up to 76 simulators simultaneously, allowing for mission rehearsals with up to 200 crew members. This synergy is further enhanced by the integration of up to 2,500 virtual entities known as Computer-Generated Forces , enabling force members to conduct exercises in a combined arms environment.
The contract will fully modernise the TACTIS centre for the Royal Netherlands Army. This modernisation will include the simulation of more than 20 new types of vehicles, including the new generation of combat vehicle, the CV90 MkIV. Thales will cooperate with BAE H gglunds, the vehicle manufacturer, to deliver high-fidelity simulations. The modernized training centre will also offer the ability to integrate future weapon systems that will be deployed within the Royal Netherlands Army, such as the LEO2A8 main battle tank.
The virtual environment will also reflect the new threats emerging on the battlefield including urban warfare. The level of immersion will be enhanced through the use of Unreal Engine 5, the world's most open and advanced real-time 3D tool, allowing for the creation of ultra-realistic, high-quality training environments. This cutting-edge technology not only ensures effective learning but also simulates realistic combat conditions, enabling forces to prepare more effectively for contemporary challenges. Thanks to TACTIS, team training is optimised to effectively meet the demands of new operational theatres.
The Netherlands Ministry of Defence has always been a step ahead when it comes to training their forces using simulation. We are honoured that they have renewed their trust in Thales through the modernization of their armoured fighting vehicle training centre TACTIS. It remains a world-class reference recognised by NATO member countries in Europe. This mid-life upgrade will incorporate Thaless latest generation of simulation capabilities, offering unmatched immersion and realism to ensure force readiness for increasingly complex missions. This new contract is a testament to the strong and enduring partnership between the Netherlands Ministry of Defence and Thales, reinforcing our continued commitment to safeguarding the security and sovereignty of European nations said Yannick Assouad, Executive Vice-President, Avionics, Thales.
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About Thales
Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies for the Defence, Aerospace, and Cyber & Digital sectors. Its portfolio of innovative products and services addresses several major challenges: sovereignty, security, sustainability and inclusion.
The Group invests more than 4 billion per year in Research & Development in key areas, particularly for critical environments, such as Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum and cloud technologies.
Thales has more than 83,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2024, the Group generated sales of 20.6 billion.
About Thales in the Netherlands
With a presence in the Netherlands for over 100 years, Thales develops and delivers cutting-edge technologies for the global defence and security markets, including high-tech sensors, systems, command & control, communication systems, and cybersecurity solutions.
With more than 3000 employees in seven locations, we work together with local universities, government, partners and our local eco-system to develop solutions resulting in more than 80% export. The State of the Netherlands holds 1% of Thales Nederland B.V. shares.
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