US Army advances training with BISim’s VBS4 upgrade
BAE Systems subsidiary Bohemia Interactive Simulations (BISim) has revealed the US Army amended its contract to proceed with the enhanced rollout of Virtual Battlespace 4 (VBS4), under its Games for Training (GFT) initiative.
The Army’s GFT programme delivers flexible and continuous simulation capabilities for both tactical and leadership training purposes.
The initiative, inaugurated in 2013, encompasses a collection of 53 gaming laptops equipped with BISim’s military simulation and training software, VBS.
This programme creates a simulated training landscape for ground, aerial, and maritime operations, facilitating tactical training, mission practice, and strategic experimentation.
Since 2009, BISim has played a pivotal role in the GFT programme. The GFT is utilised across over 80 simulations centres, training institutions, and local station training venues within the Army.
The company initially provided VBS2, transitioned to VBS3 in 2014, and in 2022, secured a five-year enterprise licence contract for its services.
VBS4 enhances this framework by offering a streamlined solution that facilitates training across various levels, from individual and squad drills to mission command and staff exercises.
The enhancement introduces various new features to the existing GFT framework, including an advanced graphics engine, better networking and performance, a more intuitive user interface, and access to an expansive whole-earth terrain server.
US Army GFT programme manager David Perez said: “Upgrading to VBS4 allows us to take full advantage of the latest advancements in virtual game training technology.
“Our mission is to ensure soldiers are trained and ready for the complexities of the modern battlefield. With VBS4, we’re delivering a flexible, immersive game platform that supports the Army’s push for leaner, more lethal formations and the rapid integration of emerging technologies into training.”
Earlier in 2025, BISim embarked on a strategic collaboration with Rheinmetall to develop simulation solutions tailored for modern military training.
The partnership will integrate BISim’s VBS4 and Blue IG products into the “Heavy Infantry Weapons Carrier” project, which is designed to produce firing and combat simulators for training the German Army’s Medium Forces.
