Computer based Communications Training

The Royal New Zealand Navy have issued a Registration of Interest for a "Computer based Communications Training System" to teach New Zealand Defence personnel in the use of the Australian developed COMPUCAT Message Exchange (CMX) system and similar. This type of training uses something like a flight simulator, duplicating some of the controls and functions of the equipment. In the past such systems have been custom programmed from the ground up. However, it should now be possible to combine an off-the-shelf Course Management System (CMS), with software for simulating equipment control panels and some multimedia software to produce a lower cost more flexible system:

... The Royal New Zealand Navy is seeking to replace its current computer based training system for communications personnel.

The current system is obsolete and unsupportable with respect to technology and does not now provide the level of instruction necessary to place competently trained communications personnel into the fleet.

The existing computer based training tool, known as the Fleetwork Trainer (FWT), is a 13 station (12 students, one supervisor) networked computer based training system. Personnel are trained, up to senior enlisted personnel level, on tactical communications to enable them to undertake duties within the fleet.

The system also provides training to students on New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) applications such as COMPUCAT Message Exchange (CMX), Signal Distribution System (SDS), Joint Remote Control system (JRCS) as well as the Advanced Standalone Area Prediction system (ASAPs).

The current FWT utilises visual and aural training processes for the Communications trade.

The current facility is ten years old incorporating equipment that is in the region of 15 years old.

The RNZN Fleet Personnel and Training Organisation (FPTO) requires an integrated computer based training solution capable of conducting training in the following communications disciplines:

(1) Voice communications from any operator position;
(2) Voice recording facility;
(3) Emulation and simulation of cryptographic voice equipment;
(4) Interference to simulate HF voice conditions;
(5) Simulation of cipher voice circuits;
(6) Control from one central position;
(7) Fleet work scenarios to be conducted collectively and individually by students;
(8) Visual demonstration of resultant formations;
(9) Flashing light and flag hoist training scenarios within the fleet work mode;
(10) Playback and PowerPoint capability for debriefing purposes; and
(11) Morse key training.

A new Fleet Work Trainer will allow the consolidation of training resources while assisting the Communications trade, and the RNZN, to keep currency with modern communications practises. It will also provide for flexibility for future initiatives.

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Relates to the following TenderWatch Categories
841 Project management relating to IT service and delivery
842 Software implementation services
846 Web development services
848 Computer training services
849 Other computer services ...

From: "Computer based Communications Training System" , GETS Reference: 21522, Registration of Interest, Royal New Zealand Navy, 2008