Simulation as a mission planning and rehearsal tool

There has long been an understanding by all military services that simulation systems provide an effective means of training combat units and their command structure to prepare them for eventual combat situations. Simulation is well understood as a training tool, e.g. the Joint Simulation System (JSIMS). However, the role of simulation systems in the staff planning process has not been exploited as fully as possible. With simulation´s capability to control clock speed, quickly run through multiple scenarios, and do “what-if” planning, simulation systems are a natural support tool for the military commander and his staff to facilitate their planning in all phases of the staff planning process. This paper proposes an expansion of simulation systems´ role to support all levels of command and control functioning, especially staff planning after receipt of orders and mission rehearsal. Each of the steps in the staff planning process are discussed in terms of the role that simulation should play