New driving simulator opened to transform naval driver training

The Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda inaugurated a newly developed driving simulator (B Vehicle Simulator) at the Naval Driver Training School in Welisara, on 17 Jun 26.

This modern training tool was indigenously designed and manufactured by the Centre for Defence Research & Development (CDRD) of the Ministry of Defence, with the objective of providing naval trainees with comprehensive, realistic driving experience within a controlled environment.

The advanced simulator replicates the entire control system of a real vehicle, complete with an authentic steering mechanism, accelerator, brake, and clutch pedals, side mirrors, and both manual and automatic gear systems. Engineered with a sophisticated Stewart Platform that utilizes hydraulic or electrical actuators, the system moves dynamically across six degrees of freedom (06 axes). This allows trainee sailors to experience true-to-life physical sensations of turning, braking, vibrations, and diverse road terrains as they navigate the virtual landscape.

The opening ceremony was attended by the Commander of the Western Naval Area, senior officers from Navy Headquarters and the Western Naval Command, the Director of the CDRD and a gathering of naval personnel.