Impact of Simulators on Training Military Personnel in Maritime and Fluvial Operations: A Case Study of the Naval Academy of Cadets “Almirante Padilla” (ENAP)

The Colombian Navy (ARC) has implemented cutting-edge technologies, such as the Full Mission simulator, currently located at the Naval Academy of Cadets “Almirante Padilla” (ENAP). This simulator is one of the most advanced in Latin America and is used to conduct exercises in critical navigation, dock maneuvers, interdiction operations, and search and rescue. Additionally, other simulators like Virtual Battle Space 2 and the Joint Conflict and Tactical Simulation (JCATS) are utilized to perform exercises involving ground, riverine, submarine, and aerial operations. These simulators enable the simulation of activities such as troop insertion and extraction, area control, and riverine operations at all levels. With the goal of achieving technological independence in simulation, the first virtual reality prototype has been developed, simulating an engineering room in a patrolling unit of the National Navy, the ARC Victoria. This simulator aims to safely train the ship's engineering crew in emergency procedures. The institutional and social impacts of these technologies are significant. On one hand, they provide advanced, more realistic, immersive, and secure training for ARC personnel. On the other hand, they contribute to raising awareness among the civilian population about the importance of this institution in protecting Colombia's seas and rivers. The population will recognize the efforts of the ARC in developing safer new technologies, which, in turn, strengthens Colombia's naval power.