Full Crew Interactive Simulation Trainer - Bradley (FIST-B) : Limited User Assessment

This report documents a limited user assessment of the prototype Full Crew Interactive Simulation Trainer - Bradley (FIST-B) training device. FIST-B provides a turret appended gunnery trainer linked to the engagement skills trainer (EST). Bradley squads can train selected squad level collective tasks together using the same computer-generated database. The assessment examined the capabilities of the FIST-B system through a series of user exercises. Bradley squads completed training scenarios, questionnaires and structured interviews. The FIST-B system had both strengths and weaknesses. An important factor in considering the results is the small sample size and prototype nature of the device. The gunnery (Mode I) portion of FIST-B had minimal testing as it mimics proven gunnery simulators. The value of squad collective training capabilities (Mode II), integrating the crew and the dismounts, was difficult to assess. Due to limitations in scenarios, constraints of the EST, and overall system reliability, the link of the crew to the dismount in movement to contact, attack, and defend scenarios was of limited benefit. For most squad collective tasks tested, the FIST-B and EST integration offered few advantages. The device, however, did show potential for integration of new personnel, and to build squad cohesion.Army Research Inst for the Behavioral and Social Sciences Fort Benning Ga is the author of 'Full Crew Interactive Simulation Trainer - Bradley (FIST-B) : Limited User Assessment', published 1998 under ISBN 9781423561354 and ISBN 142356135X.