BAE Systems Showcases Ground Requirements in Digital (GRID) at AUSA
Introduction to BAE’s Digital Engineering Capabilities
At the recent Association of the United States Army (AUSA) conference held in Washington, DC, from October 13 to 15, BAE Systems unveiled its innovative Ground Requirements in Digital (GRID) system. This initiative highlights the company’s advancements in digital engineering and its commitment to enhancing military capabilities through sophisticated simulations.
Insights from BAE Leadership
Jamie Hoyt, Senior Director of Engineering at BAE Systems, elaborated on GRID’s purpose during a discussion at the conference. “Our goal is to illustrate the information contained within our digital twins, which underpin the development of our products,” he stated.
During the demonstration, Hoyt presented a video showcasing the versatility of the Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV), detailing various mission packages. Notably, one variant functioning as a Fire Support Team (FIST) utilizes drones for threat detection and efficiently relays target data to other AMPV configurations.
Mission Effectiveness Modeling
The GRID system offers the capability to model mission effectiveness at the formation level. This allows for an analysis of how different mission equipment packages interact within a combat formation. Hoyt emphasized this point by explaining:
- Single vs. Formation Level Protection: While an active protection system might be designed for individual vehicles, when considered at the formation level, it can enhance overall unit defense.
- Cost Evaluation: The GRID system also provides crucial insights into the economic implications of equipping vehicles or entire formations.
Virtual Proving Ground: A Hub for Innovation
Hoyt highlighted three primary focus areas for BAE Systems’ digital engineering initiatives, starting with the Virtual Proving Ground located in Sterling Heights, Michigan. This facility serves as a collaborative space where engineers, customers, and key partners converge to tackle modern battlefield challenges.
- Testing and Simulation: The Virtual Proving Ground enables the testing of digital twins under simulated yet realistic mission scenarios. This approach allows for a thorough examination of product performance in environments that mirror actual combat conditions.
As the defense sector increasingly pivots toward digital solutions, BAE Systems is positioned at the forefront of this evolution, leveraging technology to bolster operational readiness and efficiency on the battlefield.
