A new virtual reality (VR) training program called First Fight is being implemented to prepare new Ukrainian army recruits for the harsh realities of war. Developed by Ukrainian company Aspichi in collaboration with the Hetman Petro Sahaidachnyi National Army Academy, the program immerses participants in realistic combat scenarios while ensuring they remain in a safe training environment.
During a recent demonstration in London, the VR experience portrayed a vivid and intense battlefield setting. Participants are thrust into a trench, surrounded by the sounds of gunfire and explosions, creating a visceral understanding of combat stress. This simulation is crucial for recruits, as it aims to condition them for the psychological challenges they will face on the front lines.
The technology behind First Fight is designed not only to prepare soldiers for combat but also to teach them how to operate under extreme pressure. According to Aspichi CEO Viktor Samoilenko, the training emphasizes the importance of learning strategies to cope with stressful situations. The program currently offers two versions: one that pauses during key moments to provide guidance on how to respond to threats, and another that presents a continuous flow of combat scenarios without interruption.
Addressing the Need for Rapid Training
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has created an urgent need to rapidly train large numbers of civilians-turned-soldiers. Following Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, Samoilenko and Chief Technology Officer Maksym Goncharuk recognized the necessity for effective training methods. With the potential for mass trauma among soldiers, they sought to develop a VR program that could assist in both combat preparation and psychological support.
The immersive nature of VR training allows recruits to gain familiarity with combat situations, which can lead to improved decision-making and reduced panic during real-life encounters. Dominic Murphy, a military psychology expert and head of research at the veteran mental health charity Combat Stress, noted that gradual exposure to stress through simulations like First Fight can enhance situational awareness and ultimately save lives.
Furthermore, the program is a cost-effective solution compared to traditional in-person training, providing a scalable option to prepare soldiers for the battlefield. Samoilenko emphasized the importance of transforming civilians into effective fighters capable of survival. The objective is to create a library of immersive experiences covering various aspects of military training, from tactical medicine to drone defense.
Potential Impact on Mental Health
While First Fight is a challenging experience, it is rooted in a commitment to preserve the well-being of Ukrainian soldiers. Samoilenko highlighted the contrast between the care shown towards Ukrainian fighters and the disregard for the lives of Russian soldiers. The harsh realities faced by Ukrainian troops, including witnessing mass casualties, contribute to the psychological strain they endure.
Aspichi currently offers its training program free of charge to the Ukrainian military, with aspirations to commercialize it internationally in the future. The goal is to mitigate the mental health challenges faced by soldiers returning from combat zones. Murphy pointed out that while research on the effectiveness of VR for trauma prevention is still developing, there is a critical need to support Ukrainian fighters who often return home to active conflict areas.
The immersive training experience has left a profound impact on participants, helping them grasp the gravity of what Ukrainian soldiers face daily. The brutal scenes encountered in First Fight serve as a stark reminder of the complexities and dangers inherent in military service, highlighting the urgent need for effective training and psychological support in these tumultuous times.
