The Blue Print: MARS & VIKTA Training Program
MARS & VIKTA TRAINING
MARS & VIKTA TRAINING
🎧 Training Audio Resources
In a time where speed, adaptability, and integration are critical to maritime dominance, SubSea Craft's MARS platform sets a new benchmark. At its core lies Greenroom Robotics' autonomy and perception software.
Unveiled this month, MARS isn't just another uncrewed surface vessel. Designed with end-user input for specific mission profiles, built in the UK, proven in Australia and the US, MARS embodies the spirit of AUKUS; fast, interoperable, and mission flexible.
STEP 1: Strategic Security Approaches
Three high-level methodologies for shipping lane protection using MARS and VIKTA systems
🌐 Distributed Sensor Network
Concept: MARS drones create overlapping detection zones with VIKTA as central intelligence hub
Learning Objectives
- Apply distributed sensor deployment principles
- Analyze environmental sensor performance factors
- Evaluate communication protocol integrity
- Synthesize multi-source intelligence
Tabletop Simulation Live Exercise Mobile
⚡ Rapid Response Integration
Concept: MARS provides forward reconnaissance for patrol vessels with VIKTA coordination
Learning Objectives
- Apply manned-unmanned coordination protocols
- Analyze threat progression timelines
- Evaluate tactical positioning optimization
- Create adaptive patrol patterns
Bridge Sim Small-Boat Tactical Workshop Command Post
🛡️ Layered Defense Corridor
Concept: Multiple detection perimeters with graduated response protocols
Learning Objectives
- Apply layered defense principles
- Analyze threat classification criteria
- Evaluate multi-layer resource allocation
- Synthesize multi-range intelligence
War Gaming Computer Sim Comms Drill Assessment
STEP 2: Small-Boat Patrol Optimization
Adaptation of Rapid Response approach for small patrol vessels with limited shore support
Instructional Module: "MARS-VIKTA Small Boat Integration"
40 Hours 3-5 Personnel 5 Days
Core Learning Objectives
- Knowledge: Understand MARS drone capabilities and VIKTA interfaces
- Application: Execute patrol patterns with MARS reconnaissance
- Analysis: Assess threat scenarios and determine responses
- Evaluation: Critique mission effectiveness and improvements
5-Day Training Schedule
Day 1: System Familiarization
- MARS platform capabilities (2h)
- VIKTA interface and commands (2h)
- Communication protocols (2h)
- Safety and emergency procedures (2h)
Day 2: Integration Procedures
- Launch and recovery procedures (3h)
- Coordination communication drills (2h)
- Navigation and positioning (3h)
Day 3: Tactical Applications
- Threat recognition and classification (3h)
- Response coordination procedures (3h)
- Mission planning essentials (2h)
Day 4: Scenario Exercises
- Tabletop tactical exercises (4h)
- Simulated response scenarios (4h)
Day 5: Assessment
- Practical skills assessment (4h)
- Mission debrief and lessons learned (2h)
- Certification and next steps (2h)
Crew Roles & Communication
- Boat Commander: Mission responsibility, VIKTA primary
- Navigator/Comms: MARS coordination, backup VIKTA
- Lookout/Sensor: Visual surveillance, equipment status
- Engineer/Backup: System maintenance, safety
Scenario-Based Exercises
Exercise 1: "Early Warning Response" (Tabletop)
2 Hours 3-4 Crew
Scenario: MARS detects unknown contact approaching shipping lane
Focus: Communication protocols, threat assessment, coordination
Debrief Questions:
- What information was most critical for decision-making?
- How did communication effectiveness impact response time?
- What environmental factors influenced decisions?
Exercise 2: "Multi-Contact Scenario" (Simulated)
3 Hours Full Crew
Scenario: Multiple contacts requiring prioritization and resource allocation
Focus: Threat prioritization, tactical positioning, crew coordination
Debrief Questions:
- How did you prioritize multiple threats?
- What factors influenced tactical positioning?
- How effectively did crew coordinate during high-tempo operations?
Exercise 3: "Equipment Degradation" (Combined)
2.5 Hours Full Crew
Scenario: Partial system failures requiring adaptive procedures
Focus: Contingency planning, backup procedures, mission continuation
Debrief Questions:
- How did equipment limitations affect tactical options?
- What backup procedures proved most valuable?
- When would you consider mission abort vs. continuation?
STEP 3: Threat Assessment Metrics
Measurable indicators for checkpoint evaluation and performance assessment
| Checkpoint Type | Metric | Rationale | Data Sources | Assessment Rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Detection Zone Entry | Contact Classification Accuracy | Early accurate ID reduces false alarms, improves response efficiency | MARS sensor status, environmental conditions, contact behavior | Pass: >85% accuracy Fail: <70% accuracy |
| Approach Vector | Threat Trajectory Assessment | Understanding patterns enables proactive positioning | Navigation data, speed/course analysis, historical patterns | Excellent: <5% variance Poor: >15% variance |
| Communication | System Response Time | Rapid information flow critical for coordination | Communication latency, completion rates, system health | Pass: <30 seconds Fail: >60 seconds |
| Tactical Decision | Resource Allocation Efficiency | Optimal deployment maximizes coverage, minimizes risk | Asset positions, fuel/endurance, threat priorities | Superior: >90% optimal Inadequate: <70% |
| Response Coordination | Multi-Asset Synchronization | Coordinated response multiplies effectiveness | Position correlation, communication frequency, timing | Pass: <2min sync Fail: >5min delay |
| Mission Completion | Objective Achievement Rate | Mission success validates training effectiveness | Outcome data, safety reports, completion status | Excellent: >95% Needs Improvement: <80% |
Mock Data Examples for Training
System Health Indicators
- "MARS-01 Sensor Suite: 87% operational, Minor degradation in sector 3"
- "Communication Link Quality: Good (4/5), Intermittent interference noted"
- "Environmental Conditions: Sea State 3, Visibility 8nm, Light rain"
STEP 4: Red-Team Educational Review
Vulnerability categories and resilience building for defensive training purposes
Communication Dependency
Weakness: Over-reliance on communication systems creates single points of failure
Learning Activities:
- Communication degradation scenario exercises
- Silent coordination procedure workshops
- Backup communication protocol training
Mitigation: Pre-planned backup procedures, autonomous operating protocols, redundancy testing
Evaluation: 80% effectiveness during degradation, 5min backup implementation
Human Factors & Cognitive Overload
Weakness: High-tempo operations can overwhelm cognitive capacity
Learning Activities:
- Progressive complexity scenario building
- Stress inoculation training
- Decision-making under pressure workshops
Mitigation: Standardized checklists, clear roles, stress management, fatigue protocols
Evaluation: Decision quality maintained under stress, effective prioritization
Technology Integration Challenges
Weakness: Autonomous systems integration can create coordination gaps
Learning Activities:
- Human-machine interface workshops
- Technology failure response training
- Appropriate automation trust development
Mitigation: Clear role definitions, manual skill maintenance, limitation awareness
Evaluation: Appropriate trust calibration, correct manual overrides
Operational Security
Weakness: Sensitive information about patterns and capabilities requires careful handling
Learning Activities:
- Information classification workshops
- OPSEC awareness training
- Secure communication procedures
Mitigation: Clear classification protocols, regular training, secure procedures
Evaluation: Correct information handling, consistent OPSEC procedures
Debrief Reflection Questions
Mission Effectiveness
- What factors most significantly impacted mission objective achievement?
- How did equipment capabilities and limitations influence tactical decisions?
- What information proved most valuable for effective decision-making?
Ethical & Legal Considerations
- Rules of engagement and authorization levels understanding
- Environmental responsibility during operations
- Privacy and surveillance appropriate use
- Professional standards and ethical autonomous system use
Training Implementation Framework
Quality assurance, resource optimization, and safety integration recommendations
Quality Assurance
- Regular assessment of learning objective achievement
- Continuous feedback from trainees and instructors
- Performance metric tracking and trend analysis
- Curriculum updates based on operational experience
Resource Optimization
- Modular training design for flexible scheduling
- Shared training resources across units
- Progressive complexity for skill building
- Integration with existing training infrastructure
Safety Integration
- Safety considerations embedded throughout training
- Emergency procedure emphasis in scenarios
- Risk assessment skills development
- Safety culture reinforcement
Next Steps
- Pilot program implementation with select units
- Instructor training and certification
- Equipment procurement and setup
- Performance monitoring and evaluation