Preparing for the Drone Threat: Horizon Guardian and the Future of Counter UAS Training
Modern conflict has fundamentally changed how defence forces prepare for combat. The widespread adoption of small uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) has transformed the battlefield, enabling small forces with low-cost commercial drones to conduct surveillance, adjust artillery fire and deliver precision attacks. These rapidly evolving threats demand a training solution that is relevant, safe, scalable and able to evolve alongside the ever-evolving threat.
Developed by Applied Virtual Simulation (AVS), Horizon Guardian is an advanced mixed reality Counter UAS (CUAS) training system designed to enhance soldier lethality and survivability through training of core CUAS techniques to detect, acquire and defeat drone threats in realistic operational conditions. Horizon Guardian enhances the traditional weapon handling to live fire training continuum and enables continuous TTP development and adaption.
Unlike conventional range-based training, Horizon Guardian enables soldiers to learn detection and engagement skills of realistic aerial threats in a safe, repeatable indoor environment, removing the cost, logistical burden and safety risks associated with live drones, ammunition and dedicated firing ranges. High resolution mixed reality, low latency weapon tracking, realistic drone behaviours and instructor controls combine to replicate the speed and challenge of modern CUAS operations.
Designed as a fully deployable, case portable capability, Horizon Guardian can be rapidly established in classrooms, simulation centres, operational units or by mobile training teams. Its weapon agnostic architecture supports a range of weapon systems, allowing organisations to tailor the capability while preserving authentic weapon handling.
Integration with Obriy, an advanced Ukrainian developed UAV training platform, enables soldiers to train against human controlled drone threats, creating a human versus human environment where FPV drone pilots and CUAS soldiers train against each other in real time developing and perfecting modern battlefield tactics. Environmental effects including signal degradation, electronic warfare, weather settings, scenario development and mission planning increase realism further challenges tactical decision making of CUAS pilots and contemporary marksmanship skills.
Every engagement is recorded through an integrated After-Action Review (AAR) system capturing reaction times, weapon handling, target tracking and engagement effectiveness. Instructors can repeat scenarios, compare performance and identify capability gaps across individuals and cohorts, enabling the coaching of critical core CUAS techniques and continuous progression from basic drills to complex multi-drone engagements across the force structure.
As drones continue to reshape modern warfare, realistic CUAS training is no longer an optional requirement. By combining mixed reality, authentic weapon simulation, human versus human scenarios and detailed performance analytics, Horizon Guardian delivers a scalable, adaptable and deployable capability that builds confidence, competence and critical operational readiness.
If your organisation is looking to enhance its simulation and training capability, talk to the team at Applied Virtual Simulation (AVS) to discuss how Horizon Guardian and our broader simulation solutions can support your operational requirements.
