VR training for the Ukrainian Army

VARJO, a specialist in military-grade virtual and mixed reality (VR/XR) technology, has been selected as the XR technology provider for an immersive training program delivered by Norwegian company FYND REALITY to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. This forms part of a Nordic defense technology collaboration with Fynd Reality, a developer of realistic XR training solutions that has worked with Ukrainian Armed Forces for over three years to deliver training on the Leopard 2 A4 main battle tank.

Training using Varjo XR-4 Secure Edition headsets and Fynd Reality’s software is currently being deployed in Ukraine, covering familiarization, procedural training, and maintenance training across multiple vehicles. With all operational vehicles currently in use on the front lines, Ukrainian soldiers lack physical access to the equipment before deployment, which limits training opportunities, increases risk, and delays operations on the battlefield. XR training powered by Varjo and Fynd Reality is proving pivotal in overcoming this critical challenge for Ukrainian forces, enabling soldiers to receive comprehensive training ahead of their deployment.

The immersive training solution features Varjo’s secure, NATO-manufactured XR headsets, which are procured by Fynd Reality and integrated into the Fynd CORE XR training platform. The systems have been delivered to Ukraine through Norway’s Nansen Program, the country's largest aid program, under contract with the Norwegian Defense Material Agency (NDMA). The total value of the project is NOK 82.5 million (approximately €7.2 million), with Varjo and Fynd Reality supplying 39 XR systems to Ukraine in the first rollout. After deployment, Ukrainian partners will develop training content locally, strengthening both immediate readiness and long-term competence within the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

“XR training is solving a real operational challenge in Ukraine, where access to vehicles and safe training environments is severely limited,” said Timo Toikkanen, CEO of Varjo. “Varjo's technology is built for mission-critical training use cases where security, reliability, and visual accuracy are paramount. Together with Fynd Reality, we can actively help accelerate and scale training for Ukrainian soldiers heading to the front lines.”

Fynd Reality has assisted Ukrainian defense operators in delivering virtual training since 2023. While only a portion of personnel receive full armored vehicle training, a much larger group operates alongside units in active combat zones. The Fynd CORE platform allows soldiers to prepare for these roles without requiring access to physical vehicles by providing multi-user, scenario-based training in extended reality.

“Our collaboration with Varjo brings together the most advanced Nordic simulation technologies,” said Knut Henrik Aas, CEO of Fynd Reality. “We are providing Ukraine with a novel training capability that has already been validated in NATO environments and adapted to meet Ukraine’s operational requirements. We are building a global pathway from zero baseline knowledge to advanced simulator-ready performance. Together with Varjo, we enable learning four times faster from basic understanding to confident, operational capability.”

Security was the deciding factor in choosing Varjo as the XR technology provider. Varjo’s devices are manufactured to meet the highest security standards and designed from the ground up for use in secure environments. The collaboration highlights how Varjo’s XR hardware can be integrated into partner-led training platforms to support defense readiness, while ensuring solutions are scalable, secure, and aligned with allied defense requirements.

“Ukraine needs the best and the most secure training technology. When we arrive at the front lines, there is no time to learn about the vehicles for the first time,” said an instructor from the Ukrainian Armed Forces. “Even our cadets can, after a short XR training session, carry out basic procedures inside a real battle tank. That knowledge improves our safety and ultimately helps us defend our country.”

FYND REALITY online

VARJO online