As part of the Tactical Engagement System In Kenya (TESIK) program, Ravenswood has been awarded two Post Design Service tasks aimed at enhancing TESIK capabilities. These tasks involve instrumenting Combined Arms Live Fire Exercises (CALFEXs) and integrating simulated mortars for light role battlegroups training in Kenya.
Ravenswood’s contribution includes a highly realistic mortar training solution designed for crew members. Developed in collaboration with Cole Engineering Systems Inc., this system utilizes a training barrel that fires simulated rounds over short distances. The components seamlessly integrate into the TESIK system, accurately representing mortar impacts in the simulated training environment. The 81mm mortar simulation closely matches the size and weight of in-service mortars, allowing for realistic combined training without unnecessary or complex artificial drills. Importantly, no tactical alterations are required for deployment.
In addition to mortar training, Ravenswood will capture crucial data points during instrumented live fire events. Working alongside Cervus Defence and Security Limited, Ravenswood will measure rates of fire, assess the use of dead ground, and identify exposure to unsuppressed targets. These data points enhance our understanding of live fire success and enable comparisons to marksmanship training standards. By integrating the instrumented mortar system, the TESIK program now supports simulated indirect fire during platoon and company live fire exercises. Both observer and mortar lines can actively participate in CALFEX, with the effects captured for after-action reviews (AARs).
David Cullen, General Manager of Ravenswood Technologies Kenya Limited, emphasizes the significance of these capabilities: “These notable enhancements will add significant training value at every level. Progressive partnerships like these demonstrate the benefits of forward-leaning approaches.” Ravenswood eagerly anticipates fielding both capabilities in the coming weeks.
Kenya is no stranger to cutting-edge tactical training and simulation systems, having been the recipients of Cubic’s Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System (MILES) combat simulator through a US FMS contract.
Also, in March 2022, Kenya signed a contract with Saab to provide its military with its Gamer laser-based Tactical Engagement Simulation Systems (TESS) system. Saab provided a completely new generation solution for live training including soldier systems (personnel detection devices), vehicle training systems, hand grenades, and training applications for a variety of weapons.
Previous Work in Kenya
Ravenswood has a track record in Kenya. In March 2020, the United Kingdom Ministry of Defence (MOD) awarded Ravenswood Solutions a five-year contract to provide tactical engagement simulation through TESIK. Valued at £31.6 million, this contract enables British troops to train in Kenya and other locations using instrumentation, weapon simulators, battlefield effects, and instrumented after-action reviews.
Collaborating with Swiss-based laser engagement systems provider RUAG, global logistics provider Agility, and UK-based engineering and technical services corporation QinetiQ, Ravenswood continues to play a vital role in enhancing military training worldwide.
The British Army has for many years held training in Kenya under the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK), with up to six British infantry battalions per year carrying out two month-long exercises in Kenya where they can train in rugged and hot conditions.
BRITISH ARMY TRAINING UNIT KENYA (BATUK)
BATUK is a permanent training support unit based mainly in Nanyuki, 200 km north of Nairobi, but with a small element in Nairobi. BATUK provides demanding training to exercising units preparing to deploy on operations or assume high-readiness tasks. BATUK consists of around 100 permanent staff and reinforcing short tour cohort of another 280 personnel.
Under an agreement with the Kenyan Government, up to six infantry battalions per year carry out eight-week exercises in Kenya.
There are also Royal Engineer exercises, which carry out civil engineering projects, and medical deployments, which provide primary health care assistance to the civilian community.
