This paper outlines investigations and suggests use cases to where simulation could be utilized to assist planners in developing better plans. In order to introduce simulations to headquarters and command posts one first has to convince operational personnel that the additional equipment and training are acceptable considering the contribution these systems offer. On-going work in Norway focuses on developing a demonstrator for allowing simulations to interoperate with command and control (C2) systems using Coalition Battle Management Language (C-BML) and Military Scenario Definition Language (MSDL). The purpose is to demonstrate that even a small planning group without simulation specialist training can draw benefit from autonomous or semi-autonomous simulations. We believe that important factors to success are a simple user interface and commonality in “look and feel� between the C2 system and simulations.
The main hypothesis is that simulation can assist wargaming for better understanding of the planned sequence of events. This will allow planners to draft a more precise synchronization matrix and more efficiently determine the use of combat support and combat service support assets. One can envision analysis functionality where different Courses of Action (COAs) are compared based on quantitative measures rather than personal preferences safeguarding that the potential for operational success is maximized. Experimentation conducted in an international context, the NATO Modelling and Simulation Group 085 C2-SIM Interoperability, indicate that such a capability allows for parallel planning and better synchronization between coalition forces.
The pedagogical aspect of this combination of systems should not be forgotten. Review of simulations could greatly enhance the common understanding during orders meetings and briefings. A further distribution and viewing of simulations would also allow subordinate commanders and staff insight to a commanders’ intent. This research is conducted in close co-operation between the Norwegian Army and FFI and is characterized by development and testing executed in an iterative pattern. This ensures that operational personnel are comfortable using the system, and cumbersome and marginal functionality is discarded.
This paper reviews on-going research on a digital COA capability for the Norwegian Army C2 system and experiences from an autonomous land warfare simulation demonstrator developed by FFI.