RAF guns for new recruits with 'real-life' VR campaign

The RAF is aiming to give potential recruits a chance to see what a role in the air force is all about through a new immersive virtual reality film, all from a mobile or tablet, without the need for a VR headset.

Created by agency Engine, the 360-degree film places the viewer at the centre of an RAF humanitarian operation, with the tension and jeopardy building as the mission intensifies.

For added interactivity and adventure, the user is given control of the experience at key moments through a bespoke browser-based 360 video player, developed by Engine.

The user can look around a slow-motion scene in the midst of the operation, seeing which personnel and equipment are involved, and learn key facts about them.

The 60-second film was made by Engine using 360-degree cameras, enabling a three-dimensional effect from a first-person perspective.

The experience is designed to showcase how the different branches of the RAF work together to complete a humanitarian mission, while demonstrating the diversity of roles and opportunities available within the air force. It will run on the RAF website and be used at recruitment events and trade shows.

RAF Wing Commander Tracey Broome said: “Our film provides an immersive and exciting insight into key RAF professions, as well as highlighting the drama and intensity of everyday activities. It gives potential new recruits a taste of what’s coming.”

Engine creative director Christopher Ringsell added: “To immerse potential recruits into the RAF, we directly put our viewers into the boots of various roles with an intense first-person film. Our viewers are immersed in the action through fast-paced scenarios and interactions with other RAF personnel as the story unfolds.

“The only respite comes from immersive 360 moments where they can explore the scenes and collect vital information about RAF roles and aircraft before jumping back into the mission.”

TOPICS:data-driven marketing RAF technology virtual reality