I/ITSEC 2024 took a deep dive into one of NAMC’s key focus areas: Modeling & Simulation (M&S) in support of the DoD. This annual event, the world’s largest simulation and training conference, provided an incredible platform to explore the latest developments in defense technology, connect with Government and Industry leaders, and showcase the capabilities of NAMC Members.
Key Takeaways from the Event
1. The Rising Role of M&S in Defense
As the Department of Defense (DoD) faces increasing technical, operational, and fiscal challenges, M&S will play a pivotal role in shaping solutions. NAMC’s Member organizations—spanning small businesses, non-traditional defense contractors (NDCs), and traditional defense primes—are ready to deliver innovative and scalable technologies.
2. Investment and Opportunities in M&S
Advances in computing power are driving significant growth in Modeling and Simulation (M&S), opening up new possibilities to support the Warfighter. Although the air domain receives considerable attention due to economic factors, the ground domain offers a multitude of untapped opportunities. NAMC is dedicated to ensuring that ground forces have access to cutting-edge training and technology. During discussions and sessions, several critical areas for consideration emerged:
- Embedded Training for Combat Vehicles: There’s a growing emphasis on affordable, intuitive, and reliable training solutions embedded directly into combat vehicles, aligning with priorities from Army Senior Leaders.
- Digital Engineering & M&S Integration: Realistic simulation tools are essential for supporting digital engineering efforts in acquisition programs, particularly for autonomous systems and facilitating Soldier Touchpoints.
- Innovative M&S Partnerships: Defense primes can benefit greatly from partnering with small or non-traditional defense tech providers who often have the most innovative capabilities and cost-effective solutions.
- Human-Machine Integration Formations (HMIF): M&S can accelerate the integration of robotics at both the system and unit levels, providing the reps and sets necessary to prepare Warfighters for scalable deployment. Realistic M&S for robotics and autonomy is a largely untapped area with big opportunities.
- Harnessing Warfighter Ingenuity: Engaging Warfighters early in the development process can drive creative, requirement-informed solutions that enhance operational outcomes.
Building Relationships and Driving Impact
NAMC was proud to connect with many existing members and meet potential new tech providers at I/ITSEC. Together, we’re committed to supporting US Army and broader DoD modernization initiatives, particularly in the ground domain. Let’s work together to drive innovation in defense technology!