A Comparison of the Land C2 Information Exchange Data Model And the WARSIM Object Model

This paper presents the results of a case study in assessment of data alignment between C4I and M&S models. In the C4I domain the model is NATO's Land C2 Information Exchange Data Model (LC2IEDM). The LC2IEDM is a relational model, and is an international standard for tactical databases. In the M&S domain, the model is from the Warfighter's Simulation 2000 (WARSIM), the U.S. Army's next-generation command and control training environment. It will support training from battalion through theater level. It is designed as a federate, publishing classes and types through the Joint Simulation System (JSIMS), to facilitate its use in joint and combined scenarios. The paper shows that, although there is substantial overlap in the data modeled by the LC2IEDM and WARSIM, some data areas have significant problems in mutual coverage and compatibility. The LC2IEDM does not adequately capture some of the dynamic data that is necessary in a simulation, and the WARSIM model cannot fully describe the real world as the LC2IEDM expects. This paper summarizes results of the data alignment study and makes specific recommendations for changes to the LC2IEDM and to WARSIM that would improve their interoperability. Partially in recognition of misalignments identified in this and other studies, a major initiative has been started to develop an ArmyC4I-M&S Reference Object Model that would support Army data requirements from M&S as well as C4I systems.