Does the Military Train with Airsoft Guns?
One might think that the military, with its serious and often dangerous training exercises, would not use airsoft guns. However, the reality is more nuanced than that. Across various military forces, airsoft guns have been considered in training scenarios. This article explores the role of airsoft guns in military operations and compares them with other training methods such as paintball guns and simunitions.
Experience in the Marines
My time in the Marines was a testament to the use of other training tools. We did not utilize airsoft guns, but we heavily relied on paintball guns for MOUT (Military Operations in Urban Terrain) training and the MILES (Modular Integrated Laser Engagement System) gear. MILES is a sophisticated laser-tag system designed to simulate complex training scenarios involving tanks, helicopters, and other large weapons systems. This system allows for a highly integrated and realistic training environment.
The Filipino Military and Airsoft
The Filipino armed forces have been open to integrating airsoft into their training methods. Through conversations with active military members, it was clear that airsoft is sometimes encouraged as a less risky alternative to traditional combat training. I witnessed ROTC (Reserve Officers' Training Corps) cadets using airsoft M16A1s during a training exercise. These exercises provide a plausible and engaging way to simulate combat situations without the risks associated with live ammunition.
Force on Force Training with Actual Weapons
When I participated in force on force training during my Marine service, we used actual weapons and swapped out the lower receivers to shoot simunition rounds. These rounds are essentially live ammunition with paint markers inserted, providing a visible feedback system without the risk of serious injury. This method was effective but also expensive and required significant safety precautions.
Historical Use of BB Guns and Blank Ammunition
During the 1960s, the use of BB guns was common for training purposes. These guns were effective for teaching the "point-n-shoot" technique, where soldiers could hit targets without aiming, just by pointing. The use of blank ammunition, later in training, was another method used. When a spent blank cartridge was inserted into the muzzle of a weapon, it would propel the spent round with considerable force, simulating the effect of a real round. This method was innovative but required careful management to avoid harm.
Comparison of Training Methods
While airsoft offers a relatively safe and effective way to simulate combat scenarios, other methods like simunitions and laser systems have proven to be superior. Simunitions provide a highly realistic experience, while laser systems offer a dynamic and integrated training environment. Both simunitions and laser systems are more cost-effective and safer than airsoft guns, particularly when compared to the risks associated with live ammunition.
To this day, simunition training remains a standard practice in the military. It is one of the few options that can closely mimic a real firearm and provide a visible hit system while minimizing the need for medical attention following an impact.
In conclusion, while airsoft has found a niche in military training, particularly for less risky scenarios, it is clear that other methods like simunitions and laser systems are preferred for their cost-effectiveness and safety. The military continues to refine and improve its training methods to ensure that soldiers are well-prepared for any situation.