In the face of global cuts in defense budgets, simulation based training has been recognized as a solution that retains competency while reducing training costs. New tasks for armed forces, new scenarios, multinational structures, and restrictions in both financial and personnel resources including those resulting from environmental considerations require new concepts and solutions in the areas of military training, exercises and planning. The resulting loss of the ‘reality’ in conventional live exercises due to restrictions in the availability of supporting military personnel and other limitations caused by reductions in training grounds must be compensated for as much as possible through synthetic environment and modern simulation technology. Therefore, computer-based simulations, as training tools for effective planning, have become increasingly important.

Modern simulation systems should not have only one application, but should be used for both training and education and planning and analysis. This is important in relation to cost effectiveness and common databases for such areas as mapping, terrain, vehicle characteristics and tactics. Interoperability and reuse of battlefield simulations require the development of simulation systems which take into consideration the HLA (High Level Architecture). This paper will present some experiences that Slovenian Armed Forces have recognized at the field of battlefield simulations and introduction of HLA concepts in the training of commanders and commander candidates, staff exercises and planning.