VERO BEACH — The U.S. Navy will bring its mobile mixed-reality “Strike Group” experience to the Vero Beach Air Show this weekend, offering students and visitors an immersive look at the technology and teamwork behind Navy STEM careers.
The interactive exhibit will be on display Friday through Sunday, May 15-17. Designed to mirror real-world Navy operations as closely as possible, the “Strike Group” uses cutting-edge mixed reality to let participants step into roles that range from flight-deck operations to humanitarian missions and high-performance aviation.
“From the depths of the sea to the heights of the stars, America’s Navy is the most highly skilled, technologically advanced military force in the world,” Rear Adm. James P. Waters, commander of Navy Recruiting Command, said in a statement. “A STEM career in the Navy provides a life-changing experience filled with adventure, teamwork, and support, and the ‘Strike Group’ brings all these aspects to life.”
The exhibit features three distinct challenges:
In “All Hands,” up to five players don Meta Quest 3 headsets and find themselves on the flight deck of the USS Gerald R. Ford. Working together, they launch an F-35C Lightning II jet, rotating through jobs that include fueling aircraft, piloting helicopters, and flying the jet itself. Organizers say the game highlights how every sailor’s role contributes to a larger mission.
The “Support” station uses an interactive world map to explore the Navy’s humanitarian operations. Participants select from various ships and vehicles stationed at strategic global locations, triggering short lessons on the missions and career fields that enable the aid.
“Fly” puts users inside a full-motion simulator replicating the cockpit of an F-35C Lightning II. After a quick tutorial, participants launch from an aircraft carrier alongside a wingman, complete a training mission that includes dropping practice munitions on a target, and then land back aboard the ship.
Navy officials say the experiences are open to air show attendees of all ages, with a focus on giving students a realistic preview of what Navy service can offer. No additional details about hours or specific locations within the air show grounds were released.