Saab extends support for Britain's simulated training systems

April 12 (UPI) -- Saab is extending its support and services for its Defense Direct Fire Weapon Effects Simulator used by the British military.

The three-year extension, which comes into effect this year, comes under a Ministry of Defense contract worth about $27 million.

"This new contract, extending the use of the capability, is a proof of the strong relationship between Saab and the British Army, and a renewal of our commitment as a highly trusted complete training provider to a leading military customer," Åsa Thegström, head of Saab's Training and Simulation business unit, said in a press release.

Saab's Direct Fire Weapon Effects Simulator, or DFWES, is a laser-based tactical engagement simulation that enables soldiers to simulate the effects of direct and indirect fire.

All weapon systems and vehicles -- from small arms through to Main Battle Tanks -- are simulated in the Saab system, which also features urban warfare and counter-IED full motion video training capabilities.