Games soldiers play

Computer games and virtual reality are radically altering the way the military prepares for war. In addition, simulation gives military and political leaders insight into potential conflicts. Commanders can now then recreate on computer the complex choreography of thousands of soldiers, weapons, vehicles, and aircraft moving across a battlefield that extends over thousands of square kilometers. In this way, military decision-makers can test strategic options before launching a campaign in earnest. Moreover, the performance of new weapons systems under consideration can be assessed.