Dynamics of Air and Ground Forces in Distributed Simulations

TLDR: The development of several models used for the simulation, difficulties encountered, the models, limitations, the results, and future planned usage with real time simulators are described.

Abstract: Real time virtual simulators have been developed al ong with constructive entities to provide a Network Centric Operation (NCO) capability to test decision making and coordinated action in an effective and timely manner. Constructive model s are often used to provide initial analysis and simulation using one or more concepts of operat ions (CONOPS). Virtual simulators can then provide very basic capabilities from three deg rees of freedom (DOF) generic models all the way to full handling qualities models for specific platforms to provide the operator sufficient capabilities to perform the mission, which often pr ovides new tactics, techniques and procedures (TTPs). It is also possible to gain considerable i nsight into the requirements by having the operators interact with each other and the construc tive entities by testing improved information processing and transfer between sensors, analysts, decision makers and effectors, etc. New capabilities needed include the extensive use of gr ound forces working with the air and ground assets to provide an integrated cohesive force. In the test case used, the vehicles needed to be six degrees of freedom models that provided more than basic motion, but did not require highly detailed models as long as the operators could use them for the intended purpose. There are several possible techniques to develop models that can be used including starting with first principles and creating a new model using one of se veral autocode generation products, using external models from third party sources or modifyi ng a similar model to provide the new functionality. It was decided to modify existing m odels to provide air and ground vehicles that would interact with the environment. This paper wil l describe the development of several models used for the simulation, difficulties encountered w ith the models, limitations, the results, and future planned usage with real time simulators.