ITEC 2026: Finnish, Irish SMEs partner on virtual training software

Two SMEs working in the mixed reality space are collaborating on a new virtual platform to help train military personnel.  

Varjo, a Finnish producer of virtual and mixed reality (VR/XR) technology, and VRAI, an Irish simulation data company, will build the training intelligence platform, the companies announced at ITEC 2026 on 14 April. 

According to the companies, the solution will combine immersive simulation with real-time human performance data. This means instructors can “see not just what happened in a scenario, but what is driving the performance of the individual or crews going through the training.” 

The core of the partnership lies in integrating Varjo’s hardware, which tracks eye movement and other biometric data, with VRAI’s ‘Heat’ data platform. Together the software can “capture what happens during a simulation – heart rate, eye movement, control inputs, communications – and displays it in a near real-time dashboard.” 

This enables the software to calculate cognitive load, giving instructors a physiological read on how a trainee experienced a scenario.  

Speaking to DSEI Gateway about the collaboration, Mikko Luhtava, Chief Marketing Officer at Varjo, said that despite the two companies having worked together previously, this new partnership represents a deepening of their relationship, bringing a formal offering to customers. 

He explained that his company chose to collaborate with VRAI due to due to its expertise in the field of simulation technology and the ability to offer an “out of the box” solution.

Varjo was also recently selected as the XR technology provider for an immersive training programme delivered by Norwegian company Fynd Reality to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The programme – valued at NOK82.5 million (EUR7.4 million) – will train Ukrainian tank crews on the Leopard 2 A4 main battle tank over a period of three years. 

A total of 39 XR systems will be supplied to Ukraine in the first rollout. Partners in the country will then develop training programmes based on the software.  

Varjo additionally showcased its new counter-UAS simulation technology at ITEC 2026. Luhtava said that the weapon system lends itself “very well” to the company’s simulation technology. 

“We're learning a lot more about weapon tracking and different weapon systems and their requirements, but the actual visual system already works great,” Luhtava said. 

Going forward, Varjo is looking to work with other companies that develop training experiences.  

“We want to focus on building the best visual experiences, leveraging XR technology. That's our core area of expertise,” Luhtava said.