Empowering Military in Tactical and Warfare Area with Virtual Reality Technology: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

The rapid advancement of virtual reality technology offers numerous real-world benefits across various sectors worldwide, including the military. As early adopters of this technology, the military has found multiple medical and practical applications. However, the research contributions of virtual reality technology, particularly in practical military applications, remain limited. This is primarily due to limited data availability and a lack of interest from researchers and military institutions. To investigate this issue, the authors are conducting a systematic literature study focused on practical military virtual reality, specifically tactical and combat operations. Following the PRISMA framework and employing searching and inclusion-exclusion techniques, the authors identified twenty-five relevant research outputs that extensively discuss these topics, both qualitatively and quantitatively. Notably, fifteen of these studies focus on combat and weapon training simulators, and interestingly, researchers are beginning to integrate other technologies such as robotics, big data, haptics, body area networks, and signal processing. The majority of the quantitative research conducted in this area has demonstrated success, with eight out of ten papers showing positive outcomes. To improve research quality, the authors propose two main solutions: implementing combat and weapon training within the military system and encouraging innovative and in-depth research in this domain. In conclusion, the analyzed virtual reality products can serve as a platform for military forces to support personnel in enhancing and maintaining their personal development and skills.