Beyond Stress Tests: How Modeling & Simulation Powers Defense Strategy
Have you ever wondered how military forces test strategies, assess equipment performance, or prepare for high-stakes operations without real-world consequences? The answer lies in Modeling and Simulation (M&S)—a powerful tool that is transforming defense operations worldwide.
Figure 1. Harnessing modeling and simulation enhances military strategy and operational advantage.
Why Does Defense Rely on Modeling and Simulation?
Imagine being able to predict the outcome of a mission before it even begins. What if you could analyze the effectiveness of a tank battalion in extreme conditions—without sending them into the battlefield? Modeling and Simulation makes this possible, offering defense professionals a way to test, refine, and optimize their decisions before committing resources.
M&S allows military planners, engineers, and decision-makers to simulate real-world scenarios with precision. From battlefield tactics to equipment testing and logistics planning, these simulations help reduce costs, enhance safety, and improve operational effectiveness.
How is M&S Used in Defense?
- Training & Readiness: Live, virtual, and constructive simulations provide military personnel with immersive training experiences. These simulations replicate real-world combat situations, improving readiness and decision-making under pressure.
- Capability Development: Before investing in new equipment or technologies, defense organizations use M&S to evaluate performance, identify risks, and fine-tune designs. Digital twins—virtual models of physical systems—are now used to predict how systems will behave under different conditions.
- Mission Planning: How do you anticipate enemy movements, plan logistics, and assess operational risks? Simulations allow defense planners to test multiple scenarios, optimize strategies, and make data-driven decisions with greater confidence.
- Wargaming & Strategy Development: Modern defense relies on wargaming to test geopolitical strategies, operational tactics, and multi-domain operations. These simulated exercises allow leaders to explore potential threats, stress-test responses, and refine military strategies.
Why is M&S More Important Than Ever?
The defense landscape is rapidly evolving, with emerging technologies such as AI, digital twins, and virtual reality enhancing simulation capabilities. As threats become more complex and unpredictable, the ability to model different scenarios and rapidly adjust strategies is a game-changer.
With global defense forces facing tight budgets and increasing operational demands, M&S provides a cost-effective way to test solutions before deploying them in real-world environments. It helps bridge the gap between theory and practice—ensuring that the right decisions are made when it matters most.
Want to Learn More About M&S?
If you’re a defense professional looking to harness the power of Modeling and Simulation, our Introduction to Defense Modeling & Simulation course is designed for you. This one-day immersive training will equip you with the skills to leverage M&S for mission success, capability development, and operational planning.
Want to learn more? Join us from February 24-28, 2025, in Canberra, Australia.
About the Author
Daniel Eggler, BE (Hons), PhD.
Dr Daniel Eggler has over 9 years’ experience delivering educational excellence in the field of mechanical engineering.
In his previous role, Daniel was a highly accomplished Lecturer at the School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering at the University of New South Wales (UNSW). He was the School’s most senior mechanical design lecturer and led the revision of the School’s design curriculum. Keen to ensure theory met practice, he was also the lead academic of the SunSwift Solar Car program at UNSW. In recognition of his exemplary service, Daniel was awarded the UNSW Faculty of Engineering – Educational Excellence & Innovation award in 2019 and 2020.
Daniel brings across his considerable educational and instructional expertise into his current role as the Director of Education and Training at the Eggler Institute of Technology. He is incredibly passionate about delivering superior learning experiences to industry professionals across all specialist technical sectors, particularly Defense. He is deeply committed to redefining the impact of technical education, synergizing innovative software and evidence-based teaching methods to empower all who undertake studies with EIT.
Daniel graduated from UNSW with first class honors in Mechanical Engineering. He went on to complete his doctorate in Mechanical Engineering, specializing in acoustics, vibration, vibro-acoustics and active noise control, cloaking and illusions.
