Army Awarded BAE Systems Combat Training Contract

The US Army will integrate new embedded training systems onto a platoon of its combat vehicles.

Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Military Jobs

Isometric editorial illustration of modular industrial sensor hardware and cabling mounted on a metallic bulkhead panel, representing advanced training technology. — The U.S. Army awarded BAE Systems a contract to integrate embedded training systems, allowing soldiers to conduct precision gunnery qualification directly inside combat vehicles. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should the military prioritize mobile, built-in vehicle training over traditional off-site simulator facilities?

The US Army awarded a contract to BAE Systems to integrate an embedded training system onto a platoon of its combat vehicles. This technology allows soldiers to conduct precision gunnery training directly from inside their own vehicles.

Why it matters

This initiative replaces the need for costly and difficult-to-schedule standalone simulator facilities by shifting training from pre-deployment activities to a permanent vehicle capability. It is part of the Force Development, Innovation and Assessment program.

The project includes testing by the 1st Cavalry Division using the Embedded Collective Training system. The initiative aims to simulate Bradley Fighting Vehicle gunnery tables across the fleet.

The players

BAE Systems

This global defense, aerospace, and security company provides advanced technology and combat vehicles to military forces.

1st Cavalry Division

This major infantry division of the United States Army is based at Fort Hood, Texas, and is responsible for significant armored combat operations.

US Army

This primary branch of the United States Armed Forces is responsible for land-based military operations.

The details

Soldiers utilize the system to perform precision gunnery progression and platform qualification tasks while stationed at a range or in a motor pool. The integration of this technology allows for crew training without moving equipment to specialized facilities.

September 21, 2026: Contract award and system testing details were reported.

Market Landscape

This project represents a shift toward onboard simulation, challenging the traditional reliance on expensive infrastructure. It marks a transition in defense procurement toward integrated hardware-software capabilities.

This technology enables military personnel to maintain combat proficiency more efficiently without the logistical burden of booking external simulators. It reduces the time and resources required for essential platform qualification and gunnery drills.

The takeaway

The move toward embedded simulation highlights a wider defense trend of streamlining readiness through integrated digital systems. Future training cycles will likely rely more heavily on in-platform capabilities to maintain tactical performance.