British Army Embraces Video Gaming to Enhance Combat Readiness
Summary:
- The British Army is integrating video games, like "Call of Duty," into its training programs to improve soldiers’ combat readiness.
- The newly launched International Defense Esports Games (IDEG) will see military teams from 40 countries compete, showcasing the value of gaming in modern warfare.
- UK defense officials aim to attract skilled gamers to bolster military capabilities amid recruitment challenges.
In a groundbreaking shift, senior officials within the British Army have revealed that soldiers are honing their combat readiness through popular video games such as "Call of Duty." General Sir Tom Copinger-Symes, deputy commander of Cyber and Specialist Operations Command, emphasized the growing importance of technology in warfare, particularly remote-controlled drones, which have played a significant role in recent conflicts, notably in Ukraine.
The British Ministry of Defense recently announced the launch of the International Defense Esports Games (IDEG), set to bring together military teams from 40 countries. This event is not just a showcase of skill but a strategic initiative to deepen partnerships with allied nations committed to advancing technological innovation in defense.
Elevating Military Skills Through Gaming
General Copinger-Symes asserted, "Combat experience, including the conflict in Ukraine, has illustrated that gaming technology offers genuine value in training drone operators and enhancing network capabilities." The IDEG aims to reinforce the military’s combat readiness while facilitating collaboration with allies who share a commitment to technological progress in defense.
The Ministry of Defense further explained that competitive electronic gaming allows officers and soldiers to practice essential battlefield skills. These skills include the ability to track multiple threats, command ground forces in real time, execute efficiently under pressure, and adapt tactical strategies using dynamic intelligence.
Complementing Traditional Training
While games like "Call of Duty" are familiar to many soldiers, experts caution against relying solely on video games for training. Phil Ingram, a former officer in the British Military Intelligence Service, highlighted that video game training should serve as a supplement, not a replacement for traditional combat training. "Both commercial games and specially tailored training modules have their places," he stated, "but they cannot replicate real-world training experiences."
Attracting New Talent
In a bid to combat declining military recruitment, British defense leaders are using gaming to attract new recruits, particularly those with technological skills. Last year, Defense Secretary John Healey initiated the "Fast Track Program" to expedite the recruitment of young individuals with cyber expertise. Notably, the UK faces approximately 90,000 cyber attack threats annually. Healy publicly appealed to gamers and programmers, stating, "If you are a top gamer or programmer, your country needs you."
The British Army has also enthusiastically adopted virtual reality (VR) for training, employing devices closely resembling mainstream game controllers to operate military equipment.
Innovative Training Platforms
Participants in IDEG will not only engage in "Call of Duty" but will also tackle the drone simulation game VelociDrone. This game simulates combat scenarios akin to those observed in Ukraine, allowing operators to execute precise strikes using small drones. VelociDrone has emerged as a vital training tool for British drone operators, highlighting the integration of gaming technology into military preparations.
Veterans Affairs Minister Louise Sandher-Jones remarked on the lessons learned from the Ukrainian conflict, pointing out the "effectiveness of video games in developing the rapid decision-making skills necessary for modern warfare." She said, "The International Defense Esports Competition places the UK at the forefront of this transformative approach, ensuring our armed forces are well-prepared for future conflicts."
Chester King, Chairman of British Esports, described the launch of IDEG as a historic milestone for British esports.
Looking Ahead
Registration for the IDEG will open in January 2026, followed by online qualifying rounds, with the finals scheduled for October of the same year at the National Gaming and Esports Arena in Sunderland. This event promises to not only enhance military capabilities but also revolutionize perceptions of how gaming can influence modern warfare.
As the bridge between traditional military training and emerging technology continues to grow, the British Army is positioning itself to utilize the skills of the next generation—bringing a new dynamic to the concept of combat readiness.
