Digital Training Facility

The Digital Training Facility houses the advance level digital battle simulation training, including Tactical Operation Centers (TOCs) and a large Simulation Lab, used to train both NCO and Officer Students and troops that have spent time in war zones through the use of constructive virtual battle simulations.  Additional classroom space was added on the second floor to accommodate new training applications such as Darwars and VBS2 training simulations. The new 53,500-square-foot, 2-story building was designed to be compatible with the Fort Leonard Wood design standards and the area context, specifically the characteristic architecture of the nearby Thurman Hall and MANSCEN training complex.

The new building is located adjacent to Thurman Hall and connected through LAN and communications systems to provide integrated training between the facilities, which is critical to the training mission. A vehicle lot is next to the facility where field-training vehicles can hook up to the facility to receive power and connection to the LAN system for connectivity with the training exercises in the TOC classrooms. The vehicle lot has controlled access to ensure that unauthorized vehicles cannot get within the 25 m setback.

The main entrance is located on the south side with walkways connecting to the existing pedestrian and parking systems.  This main entry consists of an open lobby with a 2-story atrium with glass curtain walls and doors.  A desk area is located in the lobby for security/reception usage as required.  The first floor areas include 20 TOC simulation rooms, one OPFOR instructor area, a large simulation lab divisible into 3 work areas with a moveable partition between two of the areas, and a total of 49 workstations in each room, 3 After Action Review (AAR) rooms, a student break room area, an IT server room, and storage and warehouse areas.  The second floor houses the administrative areas, additional IT areas, and three classrooms.

Green space surrounds the facility with native landscaping except on the north side where a loading dock and vehicle lot is located within a security fence with controlled entry and security lighting. The facility meets the anti-terrorism/force protection (ATFP) requirements per UFC standards by maintaining a 25 m (82-foot) setback from parking and roadways.

The Digital Training Facility was designed around the principles of sustainable design under the guidance provided by the LEED rating system. The project received a Silver LEED rating. The site was a key element to obtaining many of the LEED points, since it was a parking lot with many opportunities to improve sustainability.

Project Details