Use of Constructive Simulation for Training of Tactical Level Air Command and Control Operations

摘要

The NATO C3 Agency has developed a system known as ITC (Integrated Training Capability) to help train C2 system operators at the tactical level. At the core of ITC is a time-stepping entity level simulation built on the constructive framework FLAMES (Flexible Analysis Modelling and Exercise System) provided by Ternion Corporation. The simulation interacts directly with NATOs ICC (NATO-wide Integrated Command and Control for Air Operations) System which is used in over 400 locations throughout the Alliance. The ITC software reads Order of Battle and Mission Tasking information for friendly, hostile and neutral sides from the C2 database. The simulation then moves the assets and models the interactions between them. As well as detailed physical models of hardware, NATO doctrine is incorporated into the simulation via the use of cognitive models. The ITC simulation produces a Recognized Air Picture (RAP) in standard format which is fed to the training audience in real-time. The simulation also updates the C2 System by means of standard messages showing status and results of missions as well as updates to the Order of Battle which can be fed into the next days mission planning cycle. The training audience interacts with the simulation via a role-playing response cell staffed by military personnel who are well versed in air operations. This means that there is no requirement for the training audience to learn a simulation interface for an ITC exercise. They interact with the C2 system in the same manner as they do for everyday operations. Communication with the response cell is primarily achieved by telephone. The ITC system provides interfaces which allow a high degree of interaction with the simulation. This means that instructing staff can easily introduce events and incidents into a training scenario which will stimulate the training audience into taking appropriate action. ITC has been employed in many training events over the last five years. It is used at NATO operations centres and also those of NATO nations. The system has been continuously updated and improved over this time and is regarded by the NATO operational community as a highly effective training system.