The SIMCI OIPT: A Systematic Approach to Solving C4I/M&S Interoperability

C4I to M&S interoperability is currently facilitated by software interfaces established between specific systems. The development of C4I to M&S interfaces has not been considered one of the primary design requirements for either type of system. This has led to systemic problems in using M&S systems to support C4I system testing, training & experimentation. The Army is addressing these interoperability issues through the Simulation-to-C4I Interoperability (SIMCI) Overarching Integrated Product Team (OIPT). The SIMCI OIPT was established in November 1999 by the Deputy Under Secretary of the Army for Operations Research (DUSA(OR)) and the Director of Information Systems for Command, Control, Communications, and Computers (DISC4) to address the lack of interoperability between Army M&S and C4I Systems. The SIMCI OIPT is Co-Chaired by US Army Simulation, Training, and Instrumentation Command (STRICOM), PM Digitized Training and Program Executive Office, Command, Control and Communications Tactical (PEO-C3T) Readiness Engineering Office (REO), and has a formal charter signed by the DUSA(OR) & the DISC4 April 2000. It reports to the Army Model and Simulation Executive Council (AMSEC). This paper provides an overview of the OIPT’s Mission, Organization, Technical Vision and Programs. In addition to describing the SIMCI OIPT Organization, this paper also investigates the factors that led to the formation of such an organization. These factors include the need to develop coordinated technical solutions that are acceptable to both the C4I & M&S communities. However, other factors, not commonly acknowledged, are in the area of Policy & Procedure – such as Certification Procedures and Coordination of Requirements. The number of systems involved is another factor, and one that the Army is attempting to deal with via such initiatives as Unit Set Fielding and Software Blocking. While SIMCI deals primarily with the Army Tactical C4I Systems, the System-of Systems context is much broader, including Weapons Systems, Communications Systems and Army Enterprise Systems. In order to solve the problems identified above, the SIMCI OIPT has developed a strategic plan for FY03-FY09, that is based on several Reference Models and Analyses. The working assumption of the OIPT is that complete interoperability can only be addressed by consideration of several different aspects such as Standards, Architectures, Data Models and Processes. 02F-SIW-067 For publication and presentation at the SISO Fall 2002 SIW