Implementing the Modelling and Simulation as a Service (MSaaS) Paradigm

Abstract

Simulation is used widely within the defence sector to support training, capability development, mission rehearsal and decision support in acquisition processes. Consequently, Modelling and Simulation (M&S) has become a critical capability and M&S products are highly valuable resources that need to be conveniently accessible by a large number of users as often as possible. M&S as a Service (MSaaS) combines service orientation and the provision of M&S applications via the as-a-service model of cloud computing to enable more flexible simulation environments that can be deployed and executed on demand. The NATO Modelling and Simulation Group (NMSG) investigates MSaaS with the aim of providing the technical and organizational foundations to establish the Allied Framework for M&S as a Service. The Allied Framework for M&S as a Service is the common approach of NATO and nations towards implementing MSaaS and is defined by an Operational Concept Document, a Technical Reference Architecture, and supporting Governance Policies. This chapter provides an overview of the Allied Framework for MSaaS and initial experimentation results to demonstrate that MSaaS is capable of realizing the vision that M&S products, data and processes are conveniently accessible to a large number of users whenever and wherever needed.