Gerhard Schempp: Simulation network to improve mission preparation
ESG CEO encourages development of a training network for all branches of the Bundeswehr.
Berlin, 24 September 2008
Gerhard Schempp, CEO of ESG Elektroniksystem- und Logistik-GmbH and chairman of the Fachverband Wehrtechnik (professional association for defence technology) in the German electrical engineering and electronics industry association ZVEI has suggested setting up a simulation network for all the branches of the German armed forces to help them prepare for their missions. Schempp presented his proposed concept on Tuesday at an event organised by the german parliamentary group for aerospace technology in Berlin.
"Good planning and preparation work is an essential prerequisite for a successful mission and for ensuring greater safety for our soldiers and the civilian population," said Schempp, and added that simulation technologies are already often used today to aid such work. "For decades, simulation has been an important element of training for all the weapon systems of the army, the air force and the navy."
However, there is still an important step to be taken, said Schempp, which is to link all these systems so that all branches of the military can carry out joint exercises and the aspect of multinationality can be emphasised more strongly in the context of realistic scenarios. "The required technologies already exist and are being continuously developed and enhanced."
A future simulation network of this kind has many clear advantages to offer: It enables realistic mission-related exercise scenarios to be trained in a "joint and combined" approach, and offers the possibility of uniting all phases of training – including planning, management, logistical support, communication and technology – under an overall concept. "At the same time, it would lower the amount of time and money required for real exercises, as these could be reduced in number and duration," explained Schempp. Even the certification process for the NATO Response Force – NATO´s rapid deployment force – which has to be carried out at six-month intervals, could be integrated in such a simulation network. "This, too, would greatly reduce the efforts involved, without affecting the quality of the training."
"The concept of a simulation network that spans all the branches of the Bundeswehr represents a major opportunity to improve military training and thus make missions safer. The defence industry is ready to support the Bundeswehr as a reliable partner," Schempp concluded.
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