This episode was recorded at Axon Week 2024. Axon Week 2025 will take place April 22-25 in Phoenix, Arizona. Learn more at https://www.axonweek.com/.
Download this week’s episode on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Spotify or via RSS feed, and watch the video version on Police1’s YouTube channel.
In this special episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley talks with Thi Luu, vice president and general manager of virtual reality for Axon, and Andy Wrenn, head of training for Axon, during Axon Week 2024. The three meet to discuss a standout innovation: a self-contained, portable virtual reality (VR) training pod designed to address the common challenge of limited training space.
Axon VR includes specialized controllers that simulate the TASER 10, TASER 7 and even a handgun, offering officers a realistic training experience. This setup enables officers to practice with true-to-life weapons in various scenarios, from static targets to dynamic, fast-moving situations. The VR range allows for extensive, cost-effective practice, providing invaluable experience in deploying TASER energy weapons on moving targets and under different conditions, which traditional training methods often lack.
About our sponsor
This episode of the Policing Matters Podcast is brought to you by Axon, a global leader in public safety technology. To learn more about Axon’s ecosystem of hardware and software products for policing defense and security, visit Axon.com.
Key takeaways
- Axon Training Pods: Axon gave Dudley an early look at a new offering for agencies: a 40-foot-long, fully insulated training pod constructed from a shipping container, featuring five separate VR training bays. Equipped with HVAC and Cradlepoint-enabled wireless connectivity, the pod allows agencies to conduct year-round VR training sessions regardless of weather conditions or location.
- Realistic VR controllers: Axon’s VR Training features custom controllers that replicate the TASER 10, TASER 7 and handgun, providing officers with realistic training experiences that closely mimic real-world scenarios.
- Dynamic scenario training: VR training includes various scenarios that involve moving targets, different body positions and clothing types, allowing officers to practice TASER energy weapon deployments under conditions that are difficult to replicate in traditional training.
- Advanced use-of-force simulations: The introduction of Virtual Reality-Based Training (vRBT) live-action scenarios enables officers to make rapid, context-specific decisions regarding the use of force, enhancing their ability to de-escalate situations and respond appropriately.
- Versatile applications: Beyond officer training, the VR modules serve multiple purposes, including community engagement and recruitment. By allowing potential recruits and community members to experience law enforcement scenarios firsthand, these tools help build understanding and support for law enforcement efforts.
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