Modelling and Simulation: Foundations

On successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• Demonstrate a systematic knowledge of the utility of modelling and simulation on defence systems acquisition. Including:
• The V&V of defence models and simulations
• The acquisition, operation and evolution of defence models and simulations
• Hard and soft approaches to modelling
• Deterministic and stochastic models
• Monte Carlo simulation
• The role of modelling and simulation in supporting defence decision-making
• Critically evaluate the current research and applications for defence modelling and simulation throughout a system lifecycle
• Critically evaluate the advantages and limitation of simulations and synthetic environments in a systems engineering approach and in support of defence acquisition.
• Explain and apply the general principles of modelling and simulation and to explain the importance of modelling and simulation in supporting defence decision-making
• Apply the ideas of verification and validation to defence models and explain the issues involved
• Design simple simulation models using different approaches
• Explain the technologies of live, constructive and virtual simulation and their defence applications.

• The basic terminology, techniques and technology currently employed in simulation
• The application of simulation to areas such as military training, operational analysis, rapid prototyping, doctrine development, mission planning etc. across all operational domains (land, sea and air)
• The costs, limitations and trade-offs involved in these applications
• An overview of the current situation in the UK, Europe and the United States. This will include research and development (in both the public and private sectors), procurement, current users and future plans.

The course will consist of a mix of formal instruction, discussion periods and hands-on exercises and demonstrations; as well as presentations by external speakers with practical experience in the development and application of simulation technology.