Some Central Texas community members didn't have to travel too far to get an up-close look at scenarios faced by soldiers on the battlefield.

The latest in warfare technology was put on display Wednesday by the Operational Test Command based at Fort Hood.

The command is in charge of testing the Army's war fighting equipment before it is given to soldiers to use in the field.

"This is our opportunity to educate our community partners about our mission and function and how we support the soldiers," Jim Amato with the Operational Test Command said.

Among the items on display was a $3 million unmanned aircraft, equipped with a camera and controlled from the ground. Spectators were also able to get a glance at IED robotics systems and mine detection vehicles.

"Our mission in life is to make sure that when our soldiers deploy in harm's way that they have all the equipment they need to effectively accomplish their mission, and most importantly return home safely," Amato said.

The Operational Test Command serves as the Army's only independent operational tester of new equipment and technology. It's a job that doesn't always lend itself to opening up to the community.

"We can't necessarily share the information and what it is that we're doing because by law under title 10 we're bound to secrecy until the information is made public," Amato said.

Participants say the event led to better understanding of what the Operational Test Command is all about.

"Much more appreciation about the research and technology that goes through operation test command to make our soldiers much more capable fighting in today's environment," Leslie Hinkle with the City of Killeen said.

While the command is headquartered at Fort Hood, there are four other posts that conduct tests including Fort Bragg, Fort Sill, Fort Huachuca and Fort Bliss.

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