Bridging the gap between training and reality

In critical incidents, officers don’t have time to second-guess their decisions. Whether responding to an armed suspect, a high-risk traffic stop, or a rapidly escalating crisis, officers must assess threats, communicate effectively, and act—often in seconds. Traditional training lays a strong foundation, but it may not fully reflect the complexity and unpredictability officers face in the field. That’s why many departments are turning to complementary training approaches.

We are excited to announce Simulator Training: vRBT —an immersive, scenario-based training platform that pushes officers to apply critical decision-making, tactical skills, and de-escalation strategies under pressure.

vRBT is the most advanced stage of Axon VR’s structured four-step training model. After officers build foundational skills in Community Engagement Training (CET), develop technical handgun and TASER energy weapon proficiency in Simulator Training: Range Skills, and experience scenario-based decision-making in vRBT Live Action, they enter the highest level of training with Simulator Training: vRBT—fully interactive, open-world simulations that challenge officers to think fast, act decisively, and adapt their tactics in high-pressure situations.

This next-generation training blends realism, unpredictability, and critical decision-making to better prepare officers for the challenges they’ll face on duty.

How vRBT prepares officers for the unpredictable

Train in the environments you encounter

From urban streets to rural landscapes, schools to motels, vRBT places officers in the types of environments officers encounter when responding to calls—ones that are difficult to replicate in traditional training. This adaptability ensures training is relevant, preparing officers for the unpredictable conditions of the field.

Immersive scenarios that influence outcomes

Effective training should feel as real as possible. In vRBT, characters react based on an officer’s actions—like unarmed verbal de-escalation, drawing a weapon or arming a TASER energy weapon, leading to different outcomes such as compliance, agitation, or escalation. These evolving scenarios challenge officers to stay alert, assess threats, and make quick decisions—reinforcing situational awareness and critical thinking under pressure.

Unpredictable challenges, maximum engagement

vRBT provides a diverse range of training experiences, ensuring officers face varied challenges that keep them focused and responsive. Characters, their behaviors and voices, starting positions, weapon placements, and environments change each time, challenging officers to focus and learn how to adapt to evolving scenarios. Trainers can select from pre-configured playlists or customize them via tablet, tailoring training sequences to specific departmental needs. This variability keeps training dynamic while reinforcing officers' ability to think critically under pressure.

Train like you operate

Muscle memory matters. Officers train using controllers modeled after real TASER energy weapons and handguns, so that every movement—from drawing a weapon to executing a transition between weapons—mirrors the actions they’ll rely on while on duty. Whether practicing verbal de-escalation, tactical movement, or force application, vRBT helps to ensure officers don’t just learn—they build lasting, instinctual proficiency.

Data-driven training insights

Training success should be measurable. Agencies can securely upload After Action Reports (AARs) to the Axon VR web app, choosing between essential data or comprehensive reports that track decision-making trends, reaction times, and de-escalation effectiveness. These insights help trainers refine programs and helps to ensure that officers continually improve their skills.

Why agencies are turning to vRBT

• Enhanced tactical readiness and de-escalation skills – Officers build confidence in managing high-stress encounters by developing both verbal de-escalation techniques and tactical decision-making skills to handle unpredictable, high-risk situations.

• Cost-effective and scalable training – Reduces the need for expensive scenario-based training setups and live-fire exercises while adapting to agencies of all sizes.

• Flexible and on-demand access – Officers can train anytime, anywhere—whether facilitated by a trainer or self-directed with vRBT Solo Mode, even without an internet connection.

• Consistent and customizable training – Standardized VR scenarios ensure officers receive high-quality instruction while allowing customization to meet department-specific training objectives.

• Safe, adaptive learning – Officers can respond using different approaches, adjust their responses, and develop their skills in a controlled, consequence-free environment.

Experience the future of law enforcement training

At Axon, we believe that officers shouldn’t face their hardest decisions for the first time in the field. With vRBT, they don’t have to.

By replicating the complexity and pressure of real-world encounters—within a safe, controlled environment—vRBT prepares officers for the unexpected challenges they’ll face on duty.