South Korea Upgrades K1 Tank Training Simulators to Boost Realism

South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) has completed upgrades to the K1 series tank Tactical Simulation Training System (TMPS), which is currently used by both the Army and Marine Corps.

The upgrades aim to improve training realism, boost equipment efficiency, and better replicate operational conditions in modern armored warfare.

The TMPS, which supports the K1, K1E1, K1A1, and K1A2 tank variants, uses 3D visuals to simulate combat and emergency scenarios, such as tank malfunctions and extreme weather conditions. The simulator has been a part of South Korea’s defense training infrastructure since 2010, offering a safer and more cost-effective alternative to live training exercises.

However, aging systems and mismatches with upgraded tank components had prompted repeated calls for modernization. The recent overhaul addressed these concerns by replacing outdated computer systems, switching to the latest Windows operating environment, and drastically reducing boot-up time from 15 minutes to just one.

Further upgrades include a new mock sight identical to operational tank optics, and full replacement of all software and hardware linked to the main gun, accommodating the shift from 105mm to 120mm caliber.