Virtual Reality Headsets Published April 12, 2023 By Asa Peck 425th Air Base Squadron IZMIR, Türkiye -- The 425th Air Base Squadron Housing Office has successfully introduced an innovative solution to help housing specialists complete their mission, thanks to the support of the 39th Air Base Wing Innovation Office located at Incirlik Air Base, Türkiye. The initiative began with the completion and submission of an “Innovation Proposal Request” application to the 39th ABW Innovation Office, which was approved within just three days. Within two months, the 425th AB Housing Office had researched, sourced, procured and received $12,000 worth of virtual reality equipment which will enable their housing professionals to optimize their work and allow service members to view a larger number of residences within a shorter period of time. “This is an incredible opportunity to put innovation funds to good use,’ said Lt. Col. Bryan Shoupe, 425th ABS commander. “Department of Defense members arriving to Izmir can now review dozens of residences in minutes, saving both time and money while they find a place to live.” The housing office’s efforts are anticipated to result in an annual cost savings of $276,000 by leveraging this technology, with the potential for even greater savings if virtual reality is adopted more widely across the U.S. Air Force and the DOD. This initiative highlights the importance of promoting and encouraging innovation within organizations, as well as the benefits that can be achieved through the adoption of new technologies to optimize processes and deliver better services. The rapid approval and implementation of this initiative also showcases the ability of the organization to respond quickly to new ideas and solutions. “This new technology provides the most realistic experience possible,” said Senior Airman Houston Comer, 425th ABS base defense operations center controller. “It allows you to truly take a life-like tour without physically being there.”