According to a blog post about Second Life miliatry simulations on the InformationWeek website, the U.S. Air Force, National Guard and Navy are now using Second Life and similar virtual world systems for training and collaboration. The armed forces have found that travel costs can be reduced and time can be saved by providing realistic digital combat simulations. It’s not suprising that Second Life would be used this way, since it’s already home to hundreds of fantasy armies and navies that have been created by users.

The Air Force uses MyBase, a simulated military base, for education, recruiting and training. MyBase is open to the Second Life public and offers tours and virtual aircraft flights. There are plans for a second location that will provide more intensive training for Air Force personnel.