Use of Live, Virtual and Constructive simulations to support SCORPION units forces readiness

摘要

This paper introduces the rationale, the architecture, the issues solved and the lessons learned during a Live Virtual Constructive (LVC) experimentation performed at the French Combat Training Center (CTC) in Mailly-le-Camp. It shows how SCORPION units will execute training exercises in the future and what are the changes required to improve the current live training system called CENTA URE. SCORPION is aimed at transforming the French Army to meet the operational challenges of tomorrow. It brings together new army platforms (VBCI, VBMR, EBRC), modernized platforms (LECLERC), SCORPION Combat and Information System (SICS), communications means (CONTACT, RIF) and new battlefield sensors (UAV, UGV). This leads SCORPION units to execute a more collaborative maneuver with extended fire ranges, improving the agility and therefore maximizing the concentration of efforts over a larger terrain. The new advanced performances of SCORPION units make the French CTC terrain too small to train up to three SCORPION battle groups during an exercise. However, it is strongly required to exercise up to three battle groups. Thus, a possible solution to overcome this issue is to virtually stretch the existing CTC battlefield borders in order to extend the size of the training area. An LVC federation may provide such capability. The experimentations depicted in this paper highlight through three different use cases the employment of the LVC federation. They address: 1. Beyond the visual range firing of a virtual medium range missile (MMP) by a real soldier on a real vehicle, identified by a real observer; 2. Direct firing of a virtual MMP by a real soldier on a virtual vehicle; and 3. Beyond the visual range firing of a virtual MMP by a real soldier on a virtual vehicle, identified by a real observer. The paper concludes with a set of recommendations according to a number of themes including adapting live simulation devices, sharing common data models, coupling of simulations, and "fair fight".