IMPLEMENTATION OF IMMERSIVE TECHNOLOGIES IN THE TRAINING OF SPECIALISTS FOR THE SECURITY AND DEFENSE INDUSTRY

Abstract

The article investigates the application of immersive technologies, namely virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR), in the field of security and defense of Ukraine. In the current conditions of increasing threats to national security, particularly due to hybrid conflicts and innovative forms of warfare, there is an urgent need to implement effective technological solutions to improve the quality of training specialists who ensure the state's security. Special attention is paid to the educational field «Security and Defense», which is designed to prepare highly qualified specialists capable of operating in unstable conditions, quickly adapting to new challenges, and making operational decisions in critical situations. The study analyzes the current state of development of immersive technologies worldwide and identifies key directions for their implementation in the military, law enforcement, medical, and civilian security sectors. It provides a classification of VR, AR, and MR technologies, examines their functions, features of application, technical capabilities, and main advantages compared to traditional training methods. In particular, it highlights the possibility of creating realistic training environments that allow modeling dangerous and extreme situations without risking the lives of participants in the educational process. The work presents an overview of leading global and domestic platforms, software solutions, and hardware tools used for simulating hazardous situations, as well as analyzes examples of successful use of such technologies in various countries. The role of state support, scientific research, and the development of the IT industry in Ukraine, which create conditions for the introduction of innovations in the security and defense sector, is emphasized. Special attention is given to the research methodology, which is based on a comprehensive interdisciplinary approach, including the analysis of the regulatory and legal framework, content analysis of modern scientific and technical publications, as well as a comparative analysis of the experience of leading countries in the field of immersive technologies. The article contains practical recommendations for integrating VR/AR technologies into training programs for security and defense specialists, emphasizing the importance of digital transformation in shaping a new quality of education and training. Thus, the study makes a significant contribution to the development of theoretical and applied aspects of the use of digital immersive technologies in the context of Ukraine's national security. The strategic importance of implementing such innovations is identified to enhance the operational readiness, professional competence, and adaptability of specialists in the field of security and defense, which overall contributes to strengthening the state's defense capability in complex modern conditions.