This paper proposes a simulation architecture as virtual framework for experimenting solutions, policies and technologies related to the interoperability among different unmanned vehicles (Unmanned Ground Vehicle UGV, Autonomous Underwater Vehicle AUV, Unmanned Surface Vehicle USV, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle UAV). Indeed, this research aims to develop an interoperable simulation for experiencing collaboration among autonomous and intelligent systems able to investigate new emerging concepts and requirements for innovative technologies.

The authors propose an approach to interoperate among different systems within a simulation framework; indeed the paper benefits of the long experience of Simulation Team in Interoperable Simulation over joint Scenarios and the expertise from CMRE (Center for Maritime Research and Experimentation) in developing innovative AUV solutions; in addition, the proposed architecture includes results from NATO M&S COE (Modeling & Simulation Center of Excellence) researches in adopting an Hybrid Validation Test-bench (HVT).

So this study presents the approach for developing an innovative architecture and to start testing these assets structured in collaborative robotic teams. Indeed, due to the complexity of the joint mission environments, the Intelligent Agents developed by Simulation Team allows creation of complex multidimensional scenarios where different assets interoperate in collaborative task assignments. In addition a specific focus in this paper is devoted to the data-centric system architecture which is based upon the Real-Time Data Distribution Services, a standard integration middleware adopted for both the MRS and the HVT.