4GD to utilise ChatGPT in its robotic targetry to train soldiers

Close combat training technology specialists, 4GD, have been awarded a contract by the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) to integrate the ChatGPT language model into its robotic targets (SimStriker). This will allow soldiers to have dynamic conversations with the target. 4GD will work with its partners NIAXO, a software solutions company, to create varied and realistic military training scenarios.

SimStriker, which started development in 2020, represents a new generation of intelligent training adversary. It has added a layer of tactical performance analysis to the 4GD SmartFacility, which is currently in service with the British Army’s 16 Air Assault Brigade in Colchester. In 2022, the facility was used for more than 1,200 hours by the Air Assault Brigade, the Essex Police and the MOD police.

Currently, the target is fitted with “hit-zone” sensors capable of accurately recording the precision and fire rate of soldiers. High-tech instruments inside the body can also pick up movement, light and sound enabling the target to vocally respond, raise the alarm, shoot back with non-lethal ammunition and drop on its base when engaged.

This latest development of SimStriker, using OpenAI’s ChatGPT system, will enable the operator to configure, or select preconfigured scenarios. The training personnel will be able to verbally interact with the SimStriker in a fluid manner; literally having a synthetic conversation with the equipment. Further to this, 4GD will integrate this behavioural dynamic with simulated social media feeds, and other environmental stimuli. The benefit of this will be that the training scenario will be both physically immersive, and also cognitively dynamic.

James Crowley, 4GD Business Development Director, said:

“We are excited about the latest stage in the development of SimStriker. This contract award from DASA is proof that, in conjunction with our industry partners, 4GD continues to adapt our solutions to achieve the best training outcomes. 4GD’s flagship SmartFacility was designed to bring realism to military training simulations and utilising AI adds another dimension of reality to urban warfare scenarios.”