A range of factors (reduction of range space, airspace limitations, weapon systems availability, lack of target simulation capabilities, hostile capability monitoring) are driving NATO to a transition towards distributed synthetic enabled training. To help achieve this transition, NATO Science and Technology Organisation (STO) task group MSG-165 is established, tasked to execute Incremental Implementation of Mission Training through Distributed Simulation (MTDS) for Joint and Combined Air Operations.

The development of MTDS capabilities is not limited to the work of MSG-165; indeed, it is one of NATO’s Smart Defence Initiatives, sponsored by the United States, and therefore has good visibility on various levels, but sadly still fails to achieve the necessary progress. Whilst several challenges remain, the work undertaken thus far by the group has offered solutions to other existing NATO synthetic training issues. These are captured in documents and include:

• Establishment of common Air training objectives, helping to define Alliance training requirements, helping to align appropriate training media.
• Formulation of Reference Architecture principles, providing a foundation for Joint MTDS capability employment.
• Set-up of a MTDS capability validation exercise, called SPARTAN EVENT 20-9 (SE 20-9). SE 20-9, as a modification of the SPARTAN WARRIOR scenario, is a multilateral engagement opportunity coordinated by the USAFE Warrior Preparation Center (WPC) to provide Coalition partners persistent connectivity over the Combined Federated Battle Laboratories (CFBL) Network at NATO Secret classification level for daily, coalition focused, unit-led training.
• The development of an MSG-165 vision of how MTDS could be employed to support NATO Air operational training. The methodology employed in developing this vision shows wider utility, and the potential for use in helping other components define their own future training visions.

This paper will highlight the achievements towards a common NATO Joint MTDS environment and sketch the following steps to mature this upcoming important training capability.