Methodology supporting architecture validations (MAVS)

Abstract

Defense Information Technology Architecture is a complex business. Furthermore, the multitude and magnitude of the tasks and operations that are executed simultaneously on a battlefield to conduct a single mission are simply staggering. From the performance of a single system, to the actions of integrated systems, to the decisions made by military commanders engaged in an Area of Operations, all the disparate pieces and parts of equipment and personnel on a battlefield must be combined and synchronized to achieve maximum effect. As the beginning of the 21st century unfolds, it is clear that the enemy and the way we wage war is changing. Staying ahead of this change will be a great challenge and will require a complete understanding of the threats that seek to harm us as well as the regions and conditions where they exist. It has become increasingly necessary to research, design and test new systems and concepts on shorter timelines while simultaneously fighting new threats. The use of models and simulations to assist with this task is increasing but, in order for models and simulations to be valid, they must be able to describe, depict and replicate real, simulated and conceptual military operations so that the resulting data can be used to study new solutions to counter future threats. How do we study the planning and execution of military operations, tracking hundreds of different types of equipment and personnel, performing myriad tasks that synchronously are able to achieve success in combat? Is it possible to replicate the chaos of a battlefield and capture the rigor of military operations in order to accurately predict the performance of new concepts and capabilities so that they can be quickly integrated into current and future force structures? This research addresses these questions.