NATO countries are actively developing shared military training capabilities that enable different simulation systems to be connected for integrated exercises. In October 2025, 13 Allied nations launched the Distributed Synthetic Training initiative, aimed at connecting national simulation capabilities for multinational training.

At the core of this approach is the ability to train for joint operations using different simulation systems. The international DIS (Distributed Interactive Simulation, IEEE 1278) standard plays an important role, enabling data exchange between independent simulators.

Obriy also supports DIS. Through a dedicated Obriy DIS configuration, the simulator can integrate with other compatible military simulation systems, combining UAV operator training with the simulation of infantry, armored vehicles, aviation, and other systems. This creates opportunities to incorporate Obriy into integrated training environments built around approaches used across NATO countries.

How does it work in practice?

A key feature of distributed simulation-based training is that different participants can operate within specialized simulators while remaining part of the same training operation. Each system simulates the processes it is designed for, while the shared scenario evolves in response to the actions of all participants.

For example, during an integrated exercise, Obriy DIS can simulate reconnaissance UAV operations, while separate simulators represent ground units and armored vehicles. Data on the movement and status of entities, as well as events occurring during the exercise, can be exchanged between systems to create a coordinated operational environment.

Importantly, this interaction makes it possible to build scenarios in which the course of the mission is not determined solely by the actions of the UAV operator. Events occurring in other simulators can change the conditions under which the operator performs the mission, while the results of UAV operations can in turn inform the subsequent actions of other participants.

The same principle can be applied to exercises involving aviation, air defense systems, and radar systems. Depending on the configuration of the integrated environment, data from different simulators can contribute to a shared air picture for exercise participants.

DIS and Obriy DIS: A shared training environment

Technically, this interaction is enabled through data exchange between individual simulation systems. Under the DIS standard, they can exchange information on the position and movement of entities, their status and characteristics, as well as events occurring during an exercise. Where necessary, dedicated gateways can also be used to facilitate integration.

At the same time, each simulator retains its own physics model, visual environment, and control mechanics. Within this environment, Obriy DIS provides the simulation of unmanned systems, while other simulators can represent different elements of the wider operational environment.

This allows UAV operators to participate in shared scenarios alongside other units and systems without requiring every participant to use the same software.

At the same time, support for DIS does not automatically guarantee interoperability between any two simulators. Each specific integration requires the technical parameters of data exchange and the interaction logic between the systems to be aligned.

A NATO-Compatible approach to integrated training

Obriy is already used by Ukrainian military units, training centers, and international partners. Its continued development toward interoperability with international standards creates additional opportunities for cooperation with foreign training institutions, military simulation developers, and organizations responsible for military training.

Ukraine’s operational experience with unmanned systems is particularly relevant to the development of military training approaches abroad. Obriy makes it possible to reproduce scenarios informed by this experience and incorporate them into the training programs of international partners.

Looking ahead, this creates opportunities for the joint development of training scenarios, multinational exercises, and the testing of new approaches to UAV operator training in coordination with other units.

In this way, Obriy DIS is not only a technical solution for simulator integration, but also a tool for advancing international cooperation in military training, including with NATO countries.

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