Design and Implementation of a Low-Cost Virtual Rifle Shooting Simulator for the Peruvian Army Military School

Training personnel in the use of weapons is crucial for military effectiveness, but traditional methods require significant investments in firearms and ammunition. This challenge is particularly evident in developing countries, where military budgets are constrained. To address this, virtual rifle shooting simulators offer a cost-effective solution for enhancing military training. This paper presents the design and implementation of a low-cost virtual rifle shooting simulator for the Peruvian Army Military School. The system integrates a light automatic rifle equipped with a laser system and a computer vision-based detection mechanism for accurate shot analysis in various training environments. Additionally, an electrical recoil simulation system enhances the realism of the training experience. The proposed system was validated through shot detection and laser signal recognition tests, demonstrating high accuracy in different lighting conditions. The entire prototype was developed at a cost of USD 1,100, significantly reducing the expenses associated with traditional training methods while maintaining performance standards. This research contributes to the development of affordable and portable military training simulators, enabling broader access to advanced training technologies.