This past week, I got to try out some new army technology in order to qualify on the M16. The Army Engagement Skills Trainer (EST) 2000 is shooting simulation using real modified weapons. The EST has ten lanes for shooters with the targets being on a large screen. Several training scenarios are provided, including marksmanship training and situational training.
The EST is a valuable tool because it can save units time and money and is much safer than a live range. Ammunition is expensive and sometimes there is a shortage of it. Some installations are too small to support a weapons range. The EST provides a way for soldiers to qualify yearly despite ammunition shortages or lack of ranges. The EST also provides immediate feedback to the shooter. The soldier is able to look at the screen to see where the “bullets” hit.
The EST is also safer. Even though it is basically an indoor video game, safety is still stressed. The soldier is still required to lock and load the magazine with the rounds, clear the weapon, and put the weapon on safe. The situational exercise that the EST provides also allows the soldiers to participate in realistic scenario training without accidentally harming someone.
The are some negative aspects to the EST. Since the range is indoors, soldiers don’t get used to firing in the wind or rain. This is important since shooters need to learn to compensate for the environmental elements. Also, since adjustments are made through the computer, the soldier doesn’t get the chance to mechanically adjust the weapon.
Overall, the EST is a long-overdue training aid. It can save time and money while allowing soldiers to practice a valuable skill. I hope the army continues to modify this system to make it even more realistic.
Here are some websites to learn more about this system:
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