Command and Control Team Performance in Distributed Mission Training Exercises

Abstract : Distributed mission training (DMT) enables participants to perform within a virtual battlespace created by networking several high fidelity simulations. In a recent exercise, ROADRUNNER 98, several agencies interacted to create battlespace missions in which 'friendly' fighter aircraft and command and control (C2) crew members participated as trainees while supporting roles and enemy forces were either played by operational personnel (virtual players) or created by intelligent agent technology (constructed forces). Trainees participated in complex war scenarios without cost, safety, and security constraints associated with live-fire training. We describe the assessment of C2 teams within this DMT exercise, comprised of Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) weapons directors (WDs) and air surveillance technicians. We describe the process by which C2 teamwork dimensions were identified, measures formulated, and results analyzed. Measures of AWACS team performance were developed based on previous cognitive task analysis data and refined through focal groups comprised of operational AWACS, WDs, or WD instructors.