Photos: Soldiers test battle simulator tech

The soldiers wear "Quasar-style" simulation kit that registers a 'hit' and allows for more realistic battlefield scenarios as part of training exercises.

This Tactical Engagement System has a number of programmes that can deliver simulated live battleground exercises for groups. The system uses lasers on both heavy armour and light infantry and the MoD claims it is the closest thing to real war.

Photo credit: Ministry of Defence

An Improvised Explosive Device (IED) is demonstrated here on an Army Landrover. The IED simulates the noise and smoke of a real-life roadside bomb attack.

Photo credit: Ministry of Defence

A suicide bomber simulation vest can be worn by a trainer who can "set off" the device in a variety of realistic scenarios.

Bob Ainsworth, Armed Forces minister, said in a statement: "Training is a vital part of force protection. As the type of threat changes, we must be able to adapt our training to meet operational needs. This latest simulator does just that."

Photo credit: Ministry of Defence

The new simulation training equipment is part of the wide range of virtual training systems used by the Army's Land Warfare Centre (LWC)in Warminster.

The LWC was set up in 2002 to help train units for action in the Balkans and Northern Ireland but now includes training for Afghanistan and Iraq.

Photo credit: Ministry of Defence