General Approach to Investing in the New Modeling and Simulation Tools With ACase Study: Naval Mine Countermeasures Programs

摘要

Recent advances in computing, networking and visualization have led to dramaticimprovements in modeling and simulation (MS) capabilities. The key issue for DoD is how to successfully convert these impressive technical developments into useful tools for addressing DoD's needs. This study proposes a general framework for deciding how to invest in the new MS tools. The framework begins with an articulation of a key need facing the decision maker. It then addresses the potential roles for MS in meeting that need, the implied characteristics of the MS tools, their costs, value added, risks, funding, and management. It then repeats this process for a range of needs facing the decision maker, and, by looking for common elements and setting priorities, seeks to integrate the results across all of the needs into a single MS plan. As a case study, this process is applied to the area of naval mine countermeasures (MCM). No detailed road map for MS investment is given, but the issues that arise are described along with some methods that may be used to resolve them. A strawman approach to MCM MS investments is presented. This is a 'fleet first' approach which focuses initially on training, tactical development and mission rehearsal with later applications to acquisition once acceptance of the MS tools, and confidence in them, have been established. The general framework described should be applicable to any area where the benefits and costs of the new MS tools are under consideration.