CGF for NATO NEC C2 Maturity Model (N2C2M2) Evaluation

Since Command and Control (C2) in a Network-CentricEnvironment (NEC) introduces challenges, an approach must be developed to support training in such a framework and to investigate parameters such as reliability, efficiency and effectiveness within credible complex scenarios. The aim of this paper is to develop interoperable CGF (Computer Generated Forces) to create complex scenarios devoted to evaluation and training on the NATO NEC C2 Maturity Model (N2C2M2). C2 does in fact focus on organizations, while NEC requires mature models that consider each single entity in relation to the entire information flow. In addition, C2 is effective only if information flows are reliable, consistent and influential. In this sense a mature model must takeinto account different approaches and methodologies designed to identify inaccurate or non-influential pieces of information. Thus, different architectures need to be tested, reproducing “intelligent” information processing. Considering these aspects, interoperable CGF designed to direct entities and to operate C2 in NEC allows us to simulate information sharing by applying various criteria and thus to identify more appropriate C2 policies. In this paper the authors describe how CGF can be usedto create and develop scenarios and to verify the real performance of new network maintenance policies and/or improvements in network robustness in addition to in-network functions (i.e. innetwork data fusion and aggregation, and routing). A very important aspect is related to the effect ofhuman factors affecting elements in the organizations involved in C2 (i.e. stress). It is evident that a C2 Mature Model should include these HBM (Human Behavior Modifiers). The authors propose an innovative methodology based on interoperable models integrated in an M&S environment aiming at testing the N2C2M2. The key to obtaining successful results is to create a Networking M&S environment that interoperates with new CGF. These CGF can be utilized to train on complex scenarios, taking into account technological, functional as well as procedural aspects.