To ensure operational readiness and maintain the tactical edge, airmen must train their brains with the same rigor as their bodies. Air Force Global Strike Command is looking to accelerate and modernize this effort with MindGym, a tactical training simulator.
"No different than investing in modernization efforts for weapon systems, such as the B-21 Raider, Sentinel [intercontinental ballistic missile] program and the new fleet of Grey Wolf helicopters, Global Strike senior leadership recognizes the importance of modernizing how they advance their most important asset: Global Strike airmen," said Air Force Col. Erich Schroeder, Global Strike command surgeon.
MindGym, originally developed through a partnership with a defense contractor, is a safe, painless and highly-controlled environment designed to sharpen focus, accelerate reaction times and enhance decision-making under pressure. The 7-by-7-foot reflective cube room provides low lighting, calming music and guided exercises. Participants wear an electroencephalogram biosensor headband that assesses brain functions, providing insight into areas such as task management, mental clarity and relaxation.
This readiness resource is already available to airmen and civilians across the command's eight bases. Regardless of rank, unit or workplace — a flightline or a missile field — MindGym is available for anyone in Striker Nation looking to perform at a higher level by sharpening their cognitive control, focus, mental clarity and energy required to thrive on and off duty.
MindGym is a commercial system that does not collect specific military identifiers like rank, unit or Air Force specialty code. Just as the audio file for the 20-meter high aerobic multishuttle run lets airmen practice timing their shuttles before their physical fitness readiness assessment, airmen can build mental fortitude with MindGym.
While this tool is optimal for Global Strike Command airmen regardless of rank, job or location, it is another resource available to help sharpen physical and mental fitness.
"MindGym is another example of how Global Strike Command directly invests in our airmen," said Air Force Col. Nekitha Little, Global Strike Manpower and Personnel Directorate director. "Striker airmen are fundamental to mission success. Well-being is vital to ensuring that Strikers are always ready to provide long-range precision strike, anytime and anywhere."