EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (WEAU) – If you caught sight of the Blue Angels in the sky on Friday afternoon during their test flights, you might have noticed them. However, there’s also plenty going on at ground level this year.
On Friday, during the Chippewa Valley Air Show, the US Navy unveiled their latest "strike group" mixed-reality exhibit.
This experience offers an entirely immersive, practical insight into the technology and collaboration involved in serving in the Navy.
You can assess your abilities on the flight deck of an aircraft carrier, delve into exploration using an interactive global map, or perhaps soar through the skies from within an airplane cockpit.
As stated in a release from the VML, the 'Strike Group' consists of three distinct, interactive challenges and experiences:
All Hands
Participants will have the opportunity to showcase their abilities in a multiplayer virtual reality game set on the flight deck of an aircraft carrier with five players involved. Players will wear Meta Quest 3 headsets and find themselves onboard the USS Gerald R. Ford, collaborating to deploy an F-35C Lightning II fighter jet. Each person will take on distinct responsibilities such as refueling tasks, operating helicopters, or controlling the plane directly—every role contributing to the overall simulation of naval service life and impacting the success of military operations within this immersive setting.
Support
The Navy carries out global humanitarian efforts using different types of naval vessels and teams. Engaged individuals can browse an interactive world map featuring various Navy ships and equipment to delve into the scope and impact of these initiatives at key geographical points across the planet. Every vessel they encounter will initiate an informative session covering both the operation’s details and career opportunities within the Navy aimed at offering assistance to populations globally.
Fly
Participants will get a taste of naval aviation as they've never experienced before. In this immersive motion simulation, players will find themselves seated at the controls of an F-35C Lightning II fighter jet. They'll start by launching from an aircraft carrier alongside their wingmate for a simulated combat exercise. Before diving into missions involving bombing runs on designated targets, attendees will receive introductory lessons to help them master handling the plane. The final challenge involves successfully landing the craft back aboard the ship.
So, this merely offers a brief glimpse into the multitude of career prospects available," stated Petty Officer 1st Class Fred Gray, a public affairs specialist with the Navy Talent Acquisition Group Northern Plains. "The Navy encompasses more than 200 different occupational areas, including numerous openings within the realm of STEM for anyone interested in joining.
Make sure to catch WEAU 13 News this weekend because they will be providing additional reports from the Chippewa Valley Air Show.