The Department of Defense (DoD) vision for Simulation Based Acquisition (SBA) is to have an acquisition process that is enabled by robust, collaborative use of simulation technology that is integrated across acquisition phases and programs.

The Army's Bradley Advanced Training System (BATS) is an evolutionary training system that has implemented some of the basic tenets of SBA. The system was initially developed as a training and development tool for the Bradley A3 program. Through partnering between PM Bradley, STRICOM, United Defense and the Bradley Infantry School, the BATS program has grown to an interactive, interoperable training system that provided initial operator training support for the Bradley A3 Limited User Tests. Additionally, the BATS will be used to support the Bradley A3 Initial Operator Test and Evaluation (IOT&E) testing this fall. These initial successes in the program have led to evolutionary changes in the BATS system development, moving from a Gunnery only training system to a multi-purpose role of Gunnery and Maneuver training.

This paper will discuss the application of Simulation and Modeling for Acquisition, Requirements and Training (SMART) tenets through the development and implementation of the BATS program and highlight issues that are currently being addressed with ongoing integration efforts. SMART is defined as the integrator of simulation tools and technologies across acquisition functions and program phases. This paper will also discuss the implications of using SMART for the acquisition of weapon systems and their training systems.

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Ed Stadler