KEYWORDS: 3D modeling, 3D acquisition, LIDAR, Weapons, Feature extraction, Modeling and simulation, Defense and security, Synthetic aperture radar, 3D image processing, Injuries
Modeling and simulation (M&S) is increasingly used for decision support during combat operations: M&S is going to war! One of the key operational uses of M&S in combat is collateral damage estimation (CDE). Reducing undesired collateral damage (CD) in war and in operations other than war is important to the United States of America. Injuries to noncombatants and damage to protected sites are uniformly avoided by our forces whenever possible in planning and executing combat operations. This desire to limit unwanted CD presents unique challenges to command and control (C2), especially for time-sensitive targeting (TST). The challenges begin the moment a target is identified because CD estimates must meet specified criteria before target approval is granted. Therefore, CDE tools must be accurate, responsive, and human-factored, with graphics that aid C2 decisions. This paper will describe how CDE tools are used to build three-dimensional models of potential target areas and select appropriate munitions, fusing, and delivery in order to minimize predicted CD. The paper will cover the evolution of CDE from using only range rings around the target to improvements through Operation Allied Force, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Positive CDE feedback from various sources, including the Secretary of Defense, lessons learned, and warfighters will be presented. Current CDE tools in the field and CDE tools used in reachback are being improved, and short-term and long-term improvements in those tools and in the CDE methodology will be described in this paper.
KEYWORDS: Weapons, Information operations, Modeling and simulation, Defense and security, Systems modeling, Software development, Standards development, Decision support systems, Visualization, Information security
Few argue with the need for modeling and simulation (M&S) to better or more completely represent current and expected military operations. The challenge is to decide where to make specific improvements in M&S representation and functionality within time, funding, technology, and research limitations. So, it is natural to select key areas - Grand Challenges - for a significant evolution in M&S where a major effort of many at considerable cost is needed to deal with the critical issues ahead. This paper selects three proposed and related Grand Challenges. First, M&S Depiction of Information and Effects-Based Operations, as a Grand Challenge, will assist in creating sufficiently realistic battlespaces for M&S users. Second, M&S Support to Crisis Response and Military Operations, as a Grand Challenge, is a key area that will help the Department of Defense meet transformation goals. Third, Effective Development of Future Simulations, as a Grand Challenge, will set the standards by which future M&S improvements and new M&S programs will be acquired to ensure needed simulations are delivered on time and at desired cost.
KEYWORDS: Weapons, Surgery, Defense and security, Computer simulations, Data modeling, Chemical analysis, Modeling and simulation, Manufacturing, Taxonomy, Information security
It is both logical and appropriate for decision-makers to ask for ways to judge the value of simulation. Often, the request is even more pointed than just wanting a report on the value of simulation, and specifics on the economics of simulation are requested. Clearly, undertaking to answer questions about the economics of simulation will be critical to building an understanding of how to spend future marginal National Defense dollars. As an example, one can evaluate the economics of simulation where it supports our ability to develop, build, and test new weapon systems. Here, historically derived returns on investment, cost avoidance, cycle time reductions, and lifecycle cost savings have been documented and warrant further investigation. However, there is a larger area of use for simulation where judging its value must go beyond economics. Simulation, in most uses, has a value (or benefit or impact) beyond cost savings, and most efforts to understand the economics of simulation really intend to include the more general topic of the value of simulation. The broader question of the value of simulation will be tackled because simulation must prove its worth. If it is adequately funded and intelligently used, simulation will save valuable national resources and improve readiness. A task force of volunteers is now looking at the economics (benefits, value, impact) of simulation, and this paper seeks to provide an overview of the state of understanding of this topic and solicit volunteers to join this task force effort.
Conference Committee Involvement (8)
Sensors and Systems for Space Applications IV
25 April 2011 | Orlando, Florida, United States
Space Missions and Technologies
5 April 2010 | Orlando, Florida, United States
Sensors and Systems for Space Applications III
14 April 2009 | Orlando, Florida, United States
Modeling, Simulation, and Verification of Space-based Systems III
17 April 2006 | Orlando (Kissimmee), Florida, United States
Enabling Technologies for Simulation Science X
17 April 2006 | Orlando (Kissimmee), Florida, United States
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