FSATS: an object-based approach to distributed interactive simulation for C3I test and training

Abstract

FSATS is a tool designed to support both testing and training for C3I systems. It provides the capabilities for collecting C3I tactical message traffic, reducing it for later evaluation, and interactively simulating C3I units. FSATS hardware consists of a variable number of LAN-based processors, and its software may be distributed among these processors in a range of possible configurations. The software is developed using an object-oriented model, where application-level functions are implemented as distinct object classes. FSATS interactively simulates C3I units by modelling each type as a set of logic tables and state data. Each such model is implemented by an object class. Object interaction is mapped onto a FSATS-provided message-delivery service. Objects invoke operations on each other by sending request messages, and the results may be returned in response messages, FSATS's object interaction model will probably migrate in the future toward compliance with industry standards, in order to take advantage of third-party software.<>