While defence simulation is a critical tool in honing “the tip of the spear”, August’s Australasian Simulation Congress will also point to a future where it will be embedded in planning and training on everything from front-line combat to defence force health and logistics.
“Every major activity in the defence force can now be simulated, for training, preparedness and decision support,” Simulation Australasia CEO John Stewart said.
“Simulation is saving cost and increasing preparedness in logistics, engineering, transport, human factors, health and administration. It’s no longer an add-on, it’s a fundamental industry capability.”
The 2017 Australasian Simulation Congress, with a theme of People Energising Innovation, will run from 28-31 August at Sydney’s International Convention Centre on Darling Harbour.
Federal Minister for Defence Industry Christopher Pyne will open the event, with Chair of the Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade, Senator David Fawcett slated to speak at the Chairman’s Leaders Dinner Forum.
As the southern hemisphere’s prime simulation event the 2017 Congress is attracting major prime contractors and experts from defence, industry and academia and breaking records in both industry sponsorship and exhibitor numbers.
The first plenary will include speculation on future team training from Rice University Professor and Chair of Psychology Eduardo Salas, whose research is informing team selection and training for NASA’s planned 2030 mission to Mars. Later sessions will cover simulation advances and research in cyber warfare, UAVs, and the role of Live, Virtual, Constructive simulation in developing a Fifth Generation Air Force, plus overviews of virtual reality principles, NATO simulation standards and simulation and modelling for the future Australian Navy.
“The Australasian Simulation Congress is a platform for industry development, business growth, training and discussion in simulation, modelling, training and decision support,” Stewart said.
“Delegates will see the latest advances in simulation applications and technology in an environment specifically designed to help them engage and network directly with industry, policy makers, government and academia.”
The Congress will include networking events and an “Innovation Showcase”, with industry participants encouraged to demonstrate new products and technologies.
“This is where smart SMEs with a new idea can catch the eye of prime contractors and Defence, and where those involved in major simulation projects may find that new technology that solves a problem,” Stewart said.
“This is a truly international conference, with the best kit in the world coming to Australia.”