Optimising Complex Networked Systems Availability

With the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) building up network-centric warfare capabilities, the reliance on the multiplier effects from interconnectivity and collaborative operations among forces becomes increasingly critical. Availability has been applied typically at the system level, as a means to analyse the readiness and logistics effectiveness of the fighting force. Such a standalone system level Measure of Effectiveness is no longer adequate to capture complex interdependency and ensure the readiness of networked systems in a holistic manner. Today, the Optimised Decisions in Networks (ODIN) tool equips DSTA, the Ministry of Defence and the SAF with the ability to quantify networked system architecture and to identify critical links or bottlenecks that enhance design decision of the architecture. It provides the means to examine network robustness and survivability under complex threat environment. ODIN seeks to perform resource (spares, technicians) optimisation at the network or System-of-Systems level to ensure they are considered holistically to meet stringent demands. This article aims to describe the methodologies and capabilities of ODIN.