Foundations of Modelling and Simulation

What you will learn

On successful completion of this course, you will be able to demonstrate a systematic knowledge of the utility of modelling and simulation on defence systems acquisition: 

• the V&V of defence models and simulations,
• the acquisition, operation and evolution of defence models and simulations,
• hard and soft approaches to modelling,
• deterministic and stochastic models,
• Monte Carlo simulation,
• the role of modelling and simulation in supporting defence decision-making,
• critically evaluate the current research and applications for defence modelling and simulation throughout a system lifecycle,
• critically evaluate the advantages and limitation of simulations and synthetic environments in a systems engineering approach and in support of defence acquisition,
• explain and apply the general principles of modelling and simulation and to explain the importance of modelling and simulation in supporting defence decision-making,
• apply the ideas of verification and validation to defence models and explain the issues involved,
• design simple simulation models using different approaches,
• explain the technologies of live, constructive and virtual simulation and their defence applications.

Core content

The course will consist of a mix of formal instruction, discussion periods and hands-on exercises and demonstrations; as well as presentations by external speakers with practical experience in the development and application of simulation technology. 

Course topics include:

• the basic terminology, techniques and technology currently employed in simulation,
• the application of simulation to areas such as military training, operational analysis, rapid prototyping, doctrine development, mission planning etc. across all operational domains (land, sea and air),
• the costs, limitations and trade-offs involved in these applications,
• an overview of the current situation in the UK, Europe and the United States,
• research and development (in both the public and private sectors), procurement, current users and future plans.

Upgrade to a professional qualification

When taken as a Short Course For Credit, 10 credit points can be put towards either the Defence Simulation and Modelling MSc, the Defence and Security (Technology) MSc or the Military Electronic Systems Engineering MSc.

Find out more about short course credit points.

Who should attend

No formal requirements but applicants should be technically competent with using PCs and be familiar with the Microsoft Windows (7/10) environment.

Speakers

John Hoggard - Module Leader

Jonathan Searle 

Jeremy Smith 

Dr John Salt 

Concessions

A limited number of MOD sponsored places are available.

There are limited places on these modules. You may not receive an offer until places have been confirmed, usually 1 to 2 weeks before the start date.

Location and travel

Cranfield Defence and Security (CDS) is a Cranfield School based at the Ministry of Defence establishment on the Oxfordshire/Wiltshire borders.

Shrivenham itself lies in the picturesque Vale of the White Horse, close to the M4 motorway which links London and South Wales. It is 7 miles from Swindon, the nearest town, which lies off the M4 at the hub of Britain’s motorway network.

Bath, Cheltenham, Bristol and Oxford are all within an hour’s drive and London less than two hours away by car.

All visitors must be pre-booked in at reception by the person they are visiting on the campus.

For further location and travel details