Using Modelling & Simulation in the Iterative Concept Development Process towards Multi-Domain Operations
article
Implementing the Multi-Domain Operations (MDO) mindset in real operations involves a diverse and complex set of challenges across strategic, operational and tactical levels. The iterative process of Concept Development & Experimentation (CD&E) provides structure for this development. This paper describes how Modelling & Simulation (M&S) supports CD&E in addressing these challenges. At the strategic level, MDO is about synchronizing military and non-military effects to create effects against the opponent, and at operational level orchestrating military effects across all domains. At these levels, many different elements have to be considered at the same time, like solving a complex ‘puzzle’. It is not doable here to analyse every puzzle piece in detail all at the same time. These higher levels of abstraction benefit from table-top games and aggregate level simulations, rather than tactical simulations (involving separate entities moving through time and space). The effective use of table-top games and aggregate level simulations for MDO concepts require further exploration. At the tactical level, sub-questions that tickle down from the operational level should be answered to make sure that the full concept works in practice. This is like analysing a single puzzle piece. Tactical simulations, such as those conducted in our national battle labs, are particularly
suitable for this. Crucially, tactical insights must be reintegrated to the overarching MDO concept to maintain coherence.
suitable for this. Crucially, tactical insights must be reintegrated to the overarching MDO concept to maintain coherence.
TNO Identifier
1023200
Source
NATO OTAN Science and Technology Organization, pp. 1-8.
Pages
1-8