Development of the Functional Requirements for Simulation in Combined Arms Training (SIMCAT)

Subordinate leaders in armor units have been observed to have difficulty applying the C3 (command, control, and communication) training they receive in the classroom to actual operations in the field. One means by which these leaders can practice C3 skills before participating in field exercises is with the use of a computer supported battle simulation. This report contains the functional requirements and hardware configuration for SIMCAT, a computer supported battle simulation that will be used for conducting research on how to train command, control and communication skills in a classroom environment. The functional requirements were derived from a variety of sources including representative tank platoon scenarios, ARTEPs, situational training exercises, and battle drills. Included are the process and representation requirements for terrain, movement, detection/identification, engagement, indirect fire, communication, a resources audit, time, and post-simulation feedback. SIMCAT will consist of six networked microcomputers (four trainee stations, and stations for the opposing force and the controller/trainer). The system will use videodiscs and computer generated graphics to provide audio visual cues, inherent in tactical situations, to all simulation participants. Voice synthesis and speech recognition techniques will permit trainees to control movement and firing using normal communication protocols.