Background

The Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) relies on gas turbines for propulsion and power generation aboard its frigates. Traditional training methods for turbine operation and maintenance are heavily constrained by ship availability, access limitations to navigate inside and around the turbine, and limited fidelity of existing materials, making it difficult for trainees to gain hands-on experience.

To overcome these challenges, RNZN partnered with Company-X to develop a Virtual Reality (VR) training solution with passthrough that provides an immersive, interactive environment for learning turbine systems and procedures. This initiative forms part of RNZN’s Tele Future Focus Digital Twin program, aimed at modernising technical training and improving operational readiness.

 

Challenge

Existing training approaches lacked the flexibility and realism needed to prepare personnel for complex turbine operations. RNZN required a solution that:

  • Simulates turbine systems and subsystems with high accuracy.
  • Enables trainees to explore components, and workflows interactively.
  • Supports both classroom and onboard deployment using HTC Vive XR Elite headsets.
  • Offers scalability for future modules and desktop-based trainer tools.

 

Opportunity

Company-X and RNZN agreed to a multi-phase Virtual Reality development program to deliver a comprehensive training platform. The solution:

  • Enhanced knowledge retention through immersive, repeatable experiences.
  • Reduced reliance on ship time and physical equipment.
  • Provided trainers with tools for guided and self-directed learning modes.
  • Laid the foundation for the future integration of additional turbine systems and procedures.

 

Solution

The VR project, enhanced with passthrough capability, opened the door to delivering complex training safely in a standard classroom. It was rolled out in five stages, with each phase introducing new functionality and expanding the scope of training.

  • Stage 1: Core turbine training app featuring exploded views, interactive part details, and operational animations.
  • Stage 2: Accessory drive isolation, VSV system animation, and UI enhancements.
  • Stage 3: Airflow and de-icing system modelling, desktop trainer application, and manual drive pad operation.
  • Stage 4: Air starter system, blow-in door procedures, and duplex filter system integration.
  • Stage 5: Air starter control panel with interactive gauges, a ship engine bay overview, and an updated desktop application.

Each stage followed an Agile delivery model, ensuring iterative development, early risk mitigation, and continuous stakeholder engagement.

 

 

Status

The training solution is now deployed across RNZN training environments, providing a scalable and immersive platform for turbine operation and maintenance training. By leveraging cutting-edge mixed reality technology, RNZN has significantly improved technical competency, reduced training costs, and enhanced operational readiness for its engineering and mechanical personnel.