In Virtual Reality News
March 9, 2023 – Leonardo, a developer of multi-domain capabilities for the aerospace, defense and security sector, and Varjo, a provider of professional-grade virtual and mixed reality (VR/MR) hardware and software, have recently announced that they are joining forces to enhance the capability of Leonardo’s aircraft training devices through Varjo’s mixed reality technology.
Leonardo is an international provider of military pilot training and services for maintainers and operators, and offers advanced digital devices developed for the entire aircraft products portfolio. Leonardo’s training capabilities use proprietary methods, simulation systems, and Live, Virtual, Constructive (LVC) learning environments, in addition to comprehensive classroom and computer-based training programs.
Varjo’s advanced virtual and mixed reality hardware and cloud services for professional use, seamlessly merge the real and digital worlds through human-eye resolution VR and MR experiences.
The current procedural training device is based on a multi-touch screen and Visual Display System for simulators, both of which will be replaced by Varjo’s mixed reality headsets. Using Varjo’s latest XR-3 Focal Edition headset, which was first utilized by Leonardo for its ‘Smart Chair’ solution for training scenarios of future-generation aircraft, the agreement will see Leonardo develop next-generation immersive training solutions that leverage Varjo’s headsets for multiple use cases across the pilot training curriculum.
The companies stated that the agreement will help to strengthen and improve Leonardo’s capabilities in the Simulation and Training domain, and will see Leonardo and Varjo work in close partnership to drive innovation and develop solutions that meet the rigorous demands of Leonardo’s customers. The company is already introducing the new technologies within its devices and is already looking to future challenges, according to Varjo.
“The development of our next-generation training solutions with Varjo is based on specific requirements which will be key factors in competitiveness and will make it possible to improve the performance of our products, with a direct return on the market offer,” said Giuseppe Pietroniro, Head of Simulation and Training Systems at Leonardo Aircraft Division.
“Leonardo Simulation & Training experience, coupled with advanced Varjo technology, will allow our products to increase pilots’ training experience, bringing it into a more immersive environment,” added Pietroniro, “both within the specific Customer training pipelines and within the scope of International Flight Training School, granting the continuous technological innovation rate offered by the Campus.”
Also commenting on the partnership, Joachim Dekker, VP of Sales, EMEA and APAC, at Varjo, said: “We are proud to partner with Leonardo in developing and deploying truly immersive solutions for even the most demanding flight training customers. With the superior visual precision enabled by the new Varjo XR-3 Focal Edition, trainees can be engaged in mixed reality training that replicates real-life conditions by operating physical avionics, controls, and dashboards while flying in a fully virtual environment. We will continue working closely with Leonardo in developing best-in-class XR solutions for future pilot training.”
For more information on Varjo and its virtual and mixed reality hardware and software offerings, please visit the company’s website.
Image credit: Varjo
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About the author
Sam is the Founder and Managing Editor of Auganix. With a background in research and report writing, he has been covering XR industry news for the past seven years.