Note: This episode is the final of three recorded interviews conducted on the same day using a new platform. Some growing pains were expected, and this final edit is a bit rougher than I’d like, including some intermittent sound issues that could not be removed. Thanks for your patience as we refine the process — future episodes will appear smoother. - JS.

A few weeks ago, I spoke with Erel Herzog, co-founder of Combatica, a company specializing in advanced tactical training simulators that utilize VR technology. We discussed the evolution of training technologies, the impact of VR on defense training, partnerships with law enforcement, and the potential for dual-use applications in entertainment.

The conversation was, in some ways, an update to some time we spent together last year, when I first became aware of the company and its devices. I visited its offices in Israel and experienced firsthand how the technology can help armies and soldiers in training. One of the perks of being a tech journalist in Startup Nation!

I was thrown into a virtual school and had to react to a live shooter, who was attacking students in several classrooms. It was pretty impressive (and, I’m told, it has only improved). Those interested in reading my in-depth review can see more on CTech, but here is a preview:

Whereas the Vision Pro was an impressive piece of technology, I wouldn’t rush to walk around with it on my face. The device is heavy and cabled, immersive but somewhat disorientating. Here, Combatica’s Quest technology and AI scenarios are the complete opposite: the light headpiece is barely noticeable and I felt no problems running, ducking, and navigating the artificial environment. It felt like I was inside the computer games I used to play or as if I had upgraded from the laser tag playgrounds I used to visit as a child.

More: Soldiers are getting an XR boost for training on the battleground

This time around, Erel shared insights on the future of immersive technologies more generally, as the company is expanding into the gaming space - think paintballing without all the bruising! We also spoke about Israel’s role in the growing industry, and emphasized the importance of real-world applications and community engagement.

Some takeaways from our talk:

* How Combatica aims to enhance tactical training for military and law enforcement.

* VR technology allows for realistic training scenarios without physical consequences.

* His time in the IDF helped him recognize a gap in simulation training technology.

* The company has a high satisfaction rate among users - 97%!

* Israel is positioned to lead in applied AI and immersive tech.

Feel free to check out the interview above, and follow them for more updates.

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