From training to collaboration: how XR can transform public sector operations

While once associated primarily with gaming, extended reality (XR) has emerged in recent years as a powerful tool for public service organisations looking to train and operate effectively in high-stakes scenarios. Its transformative potential lies in its ability to immerse individuals in virtual worlds, stretching, bending, and reshaping their experiences. For emergency services, defence, and law enforcement teams, the technology enables the simulation of high-risk situations and processes in a completely safe environment.

XR is redefining government and military operations by transforming combat readiness, planning, and collaboration. From interactive 3D terrain maps to next-generation machinery design and mission coordination, below are some examples of how XR is revolutionising critical government and military operations.

Safe simulation training for high-risk environments

The demand for practical, hands-on training is undeniable, especially in life-or-death situations. However, traditional training methods often lack the complexity and realism of real-world crises. XR steps in to complement existing training. By offering immersive simulations, it provides a safe environment for teams to build critical skills, enhance coordination, and gain confidence under pressure.

Australian company, FLAIM Systems, for example, uses XR headsets to create high-fidelity virtual fire environments, they integrate real-time physical interfaces that simulate the tools and conditions firefighters encounter in the field. This approach allows trainees to use real-world equipment in dozens of scenarios, offering realism without the environmental damage or risks associated with live training exercises. The immersive environments simulate the dynamics of fire, water, smoke, heat, and foam, ensuring that firefighters experience the complex nature of fire behaviour. This realistic yet safe training allows them to repeatedly run through a wide range of scenario, and then maximise their real-world training.

Simulation training is also used to support law enforcement. In Mexico City, police training has been improved with wireless VR technology, location-based software, and a private 5G network. This setup enables continuous 1.5 hour training sessions, where officers use real-world equipment for greater realism. Trainees benefit from enhanced mobility, reliability, and immersion, with realistic scenarios that improve decision making, response times, and overall preparedness. The multi-user environment supports entire tactical units, allowing officers to collaborate in customisable scenarios — from active shooter responses to urban patrol operations.

Enhancing operational planning, analysis and design

Alongside XR’s impact on training, the technology opens possibilities for effective planning, design and analysis. Combining 3D digital twin assets with virtual reality enables teams to visualise and iterate on the designs of critical military machinery and equipment in real time regardless of location. Reducing the number of costly physical mock-ups needed, bringing these 3D models to be instantly tested within a digital twin environment enables a larger team to review and provide feedback in real-time.

Lifelike simulations can also be helpful when it comes to operational planning. XR enables teams to visualise 3D models of terrains, structures and operational environments, and then rehearse missions using dynamic, lifelike simulations. Government agencies can also use XR tools to analyse disaster response strategies in a virtual space without risking lives or resources. By integrating XR into planning processes, organisations not only improve efficiency but also reduce costs and optimise outcomes, ensuring they are better equipped to handle both routine and high-stakes scenarios.

Global mission collaboration and citizen communication

Lastly, XR technology is revolutionising how government and military organisations approach collaboration and communication. For recruitment, XR offers a compelling way to attract the next generation of public service personnel, providing an engaging, hands-on glimpse into roles through realistic simulations. One such example is the US Air Force’s Activate: Special Warfare initiative, which saw over 1400 recruitment leads in its first year. The program immersed people in realistic combat scenarios using haptic vests, VR headsets and replica gun controllers, enhanced by environmental effects like bursts of hot air and wind to mimic explosions and helicopter rotor gusts.

Beyond recruitment, agencies can use immersive tools to streamline operations, access real-time data, and collaborate through hands-on interactions. XR enables cost-effective, remote teamwork, allowing units in joint military exercises to train and strategise together seamlessly, regardless of location.

These tools not only improve operational efficiency but also foster stronger relationships between teams and organisations, ultimately driving better outcomes in both routine operations and high-stakes missions.

Embracing XR for a safer tomorrow

As XR technology continues to evolve, its potential to transform how public service organisations prepare for and respond to high-stakes scenarios becomes increasingly clear. XR bridges the gap between traditional methods and modern demands, offering immersive solutions for safe simulation training, operational planning, and global collaboration. And as more government and military organisations embrace XR, they are building a foundation for a future where readiness and resilience go hand in hand, ensuring safer outcomes for communities and nations alike.

*Thomas Dexmier is ANZ Country Manager at HTC VIVE.