Application of model based systems engineering methods to development of combat system architectures

Abstract

Navy acquisition activities frequently produce combat system architectures based on existing systems rather than stakeholder requirements. This approach limits software component reuse which, in turn, limits potential application to other platforms. The objective of this Capstone project was to develop a methodology for creating complex combat system architectures that emphasize the use of Software Product Lines (SPLs), requirements traceability, integrated supportability and Modeling and Simulation (M&S) early and throughout the approach. To address this objective, an integrated methodology that utilizes Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) to create open, supportable combat system architectures was developed. The methodology was evaluated by applying it to a naval surface combatant Anti-Air Warfare (AAW) mission area. Application of the methodology led to the following major findings: (1) Proven systems engineering practices, languages and tools can be integrated with the MBSE approach for developing complex architectures, (2) Creation of domain centered SPLs facilitates planned reuse and allows for assessment to candidate architectures, (3) Requirements traceability can be achieved by using a combination of modeling languages and tools, (4) M&S application can extend beyond operational scenarios to address life cycle cost, and (5) Engineers and logisticians can effectively use MBSE to integrate supportability into design. Overall, this project demonstrated the benefits of an MBSE approach tailored to developing affordable and supportable combat system architectures that meet mission requirements.