3D battlespace visualization using operational planning data

Abstract

In modern combat operations today the display of operational data is still tied to stove-piped and proprietary systems and software. Additionally, combat systems are still using 2D displays of the battlefield in order to reflect a picture of the battlefield to the warfighter. Stepping away from stove-piped and proprietary systems and reflecting a 3D picture of the battlefield is the direction that this thesis research explores. Research is conducted to explore technologies needed to provide operational forces with web-based 3D visualizations of operational data. Technologies used in this research are XML, XSLT, JAVA, X3D and VRML. A prototype application is developed that allows for the 3D display of operational data. The research demonstrates how operational data can be stored in a database and accessed through a web-based 3D representation of the area of operation. Data sets used in this prototype include Digital Terrain Elevation Data and operational planning data. Access to the data is provided through a web-based interface. The web-based view of the data provides both 2D and 3D views. This research shows that current open source technology can provide the warfighter with a web-based 3D view of the battlefield.