Bundeswehr Orders Rheinmetall’s AGDUS Passive Systems for Combat Training Centre

Rheinmetall announced Friday it is supplying new simulation technology for the German Army’s Combat Training Centre.

Earlier this year, the Federal Office for Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) awarded Rheinmetall a procurement contract for 440 “Training Device, Duel Simulator (AGDUS), Passive Vehicle” systems. The contract is worth a figure in the upper single-digit million-euro range.

Delivery begins in 2021 and is scheduled to be complete by December 2023.

By simulating the effects of weapons fire, the laser-supported Training Device, Duel Simulator (AGDUS) enables realistic combat training. It consists of sensors on the vehicle that receive laser signals; the central electronics; and a display and control unit. The systems enable combat training through precise determination of the simulated hit location and a detailed damage simulation based on vehicle-specific damage models. All data and facts concerning the laser-based engagement are relayed in near-real time to the exercise control cell, where the results of hits are depicted optically.

The AGDUS passiv version used up till now is a cable-based system. In the new version, the “AGDUS passiv” vehicle target system features a wireless connection to the central electronics. The connection to the sensor modules necessary for detection relies on radio transmission. Furthermore, the equipment now includes a roof sensor that enables detection of hits from shots fired from above, e.g. from rooftops.

The sensor modules can by arrayed and expanded in accordance with specific training requirements. Encompassing the so called casualty model which calculates the consequences of a hit for crew and vehicle, the connection between the sensors and the central electronics features a short-range radio transmission system. This is based on a proprietary solution from Rheinmetall involving a multi-frequency process to assure stability of training. The signals are bundled and transmitted simultaneously via two or more radio links (frequency diversity). To assure the required stability, the transmitter and receiver operate in parallel, thus avoiding breaks in transmission.

The updated AGDUS passiv features sensors and detectors that are among the most sensitive on the market today. Their high sensitivity guarantees reliable detection under adverse weather conditions like fog, even at extended ranges of engagement – a major plus in all types of training operations.