434th SFS take aim on readiness

Photo By Senior Airman Cali Elliott | Staff Sgt. Jade Bess, 434th Security Forces Squadron security response team member, practices shooting scenarios on the firearms training simulator at Grissom Air Reserve Base, Indiana, May 30, 2017. The system allows for real-life training with the weapons used on the job. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Cali Wetli)  

GRISSOM AIR FORCE BASE, INDIANA, UNITED STATES

07.24.2017

Courtesy Story

434th Air Refueling Wing

GRISSOM AIR RESERVE BASE, Ind. -- It’s not your kids’ video game.

The 434th Security Forces Squadron is using the latest technology to train and prepare its members to meet mission requirements.

A new firearms training simulator lets SFS members train with bluetooth technology unencumbered by cords and hoses.

“Anything we can do to improve Security Forces members’ ability to respond is a huge benefit for the Air Force”, said Tech. Sgt. Timothy Boggs, 434th SFS combat arms specialist. “This system provides training that can save someone’s life.”

FATS, being cord-free, allows security forces personnel to sling or holster their weapon as needed. This allows for realistic training that allows more action for certain scenarios. Currently, the 434th SFS is using the M4 carabine rifle and M9 semiautomatic pistol, but the system is capable of connecting to nearly any weapon.

“The technology has improved greatly and there are a lot of advantages to it,” said Boggs. “One of the biggest advantages is I can take a person who’s struggling with firing a weapon and get immediate feedback through the system.”

This system allows instructors to know where the weapon is aimed at all times, how many rounds are in the weapon, proper loading sequences and proper trigger-pull techniques.

“Just from practicing with the cops that are here full-time, the FATS system is making a big difference on the range,” said Boggs. “It’s been excellent as a tool for assisting us with active shooter situations because it allows us to have scenarios where our personnel are having to make those judgement calls.”

“Within twenty minutes, we see guys handle the weapons so much better than before,” said Master Sgt. Timothy Holmgren, 434th SFS trained instructor on the FATS system.

The FATS system also allows instructors to simulate weapon malfunctions.

“There are thousands of scenarios that we can simulate with the FATS system,” said Holmgren. “Once they get more advanced in their training, we can throw harder situations at them.”

Despite the initial cost of the system, the unit still saves money by eliminating the cost of ammunition, cleaning supplies, and weapon repairs.

“This system lets us cut down on the cost of ammunition, hours and wear and tear of our own equipment,” said Holmgren. “It’s a great piece of technology and we are lucky to have it.”

The 434th ARW is the largest KC-135R Stratotanker unit in the Air Force Reserve Command. Men and women from the Hoosier Wing routinely deploy around the world in support of the Air Force mission.

Stay connected with the 434th ARW on Facebook and Twitter.

• Date Taken: 07.24.2017
• Date Posted: 01.30.2018 13:02
• Story ID: 263890
• Location: GRISSOM AIR FORCE BASE, INDIANA, US