ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL, Illinois - First Army’s Operational Data Team has developed a groundbreaking simulation capability that will transform how the U.S. Army plans and executes Large Scale Mobilization Operations, supporting readiness for potential Large Scale Combat Operations and strengthening Total Force integration.
Over the past two years, First Army has partnered with the Georgia Tech Research Institute to create a comprehensive mobilization simulation that can model thousands of units simultaneously.
Unprecedented Speed and Integration
Deployed on the Army Data Platform and accessible globally, this simulation has the unprecedented distinction of being able to comprehensively assess the impacts of changes across the entire mobilization enterprise. The system combines combatant command requirements, unit status, training schedules, weapons platforms, range capacity, and transportation considerations.
This enables planners to assess changes and their impacts in minutes instead of weeks, meaning First Army can quickly determine whether a mobilization plan will work when needed.
Real-World Trade-Off Analysis
Other advantages include planners having an enhanced ability to evaluate critical trade-offs such as: Selecting different Mobilization Force Generating Installations (MFGIs) for Reserve Component units; considering impacts of adding or reducing resources at MFGIs; and knowing the effects of unit-level training plan modifications.
The tool produces day-by-day estimates of resource requirements at each MFGI, beginning with food and ammunition forecasts, which support integrated planning across all echelons.
Supporting Exercises
The simulation will support a major exercise at First Army headquarters in April and at subsequent mobilization exercises across the country. Additionally, in June, the Operational Data Team will brief this analytic approach to the joint community at the 94th Military Operations Research Society Symposium at the U.S. Air Force Academy.
A Model for Organizational Transformation
Beyond its immediate operational value, the project demonstrates how organizations can leverage data platforms in conjunction with contractor enablement services to make positive long-lasting change. The 13-person team comprises military personnel, Department of the Army civilians, and contractors and is currently managing seven critical projects. Further, the simulation exemplifies the Army's commitment to treating data as a strategic asset and highlights its ability to make decisions at the speed of relevance while optimizing Total Force integration.