Modellering med UML som virkemiddel for økt interoperabilitet - anvendelse innen støtte til anskaffelse av nye kampfly

Transformation of the Norwegian Defence Force is taking place in an increasingly complex and multinational context. Successful transformation requires changes in the way projects communicate, coordinate and make information available. Interoperable systems and concepts require a multitude of development projects and acquisitions processes to be interoperable. This report discusses how modeling operations and related project activities using a graphical modeling language may improve interoperability. Graphical models that are developed and stored in a database provide efficient and easy access to information. They also provide traceability from the top operational/political level to the technical detail level. Managing complexity and maintaining consistency during change is made easier through the use of graphical models rather than numerous and voluminous text documents. Models should be standardized, structured and available to best support cooperation and coordination. Several standardised graphical modeling languages exist, as well as a number of frameworks that guide the structure of models. The Unified Modeling Language (UML) has been deemed the most relevant language for the work here described, along with the NATO Architecture Framework (NAF). Modeling with UML according to the NAF is a new field, and thus immature. The real benefits to the defence community as a whole will only be realized once most of the community has agreed to implement a given modeling method, integrated it in their work processes and agreed upon the detailed ways in which to implement it. The UML language and the NAF leave a great deal of choices up to the modeller, thus limiting the compatibility of the models they produce. In addition, using the UML to produce NAF architecture products requires a longer learning period than many other common office tools. A UML profile and a simple ”how to” guide” must be developed and made available. Common model repositories must be established, and ownership of models must be allocated to organisations, not individual projects which are time-limited. This report documents an effort to apply the Unified Modeling Language and the NATO Architecture framework in support of the forthcoming combat aircraft acquisition in Norway. Systems and activities related to ”close air support operations” (CAS) have been modelled as a test case to explore the possibilities posed by systematic and disciplined modeling. The report contains example diagrams from the model. The main conclusion of the work is that modeling systems, operations and project activities with the UML according to the NAF is a reasonably easily implemented and useful tool. Once a sufficient number of actors within the defence community have embraced modeling as an everyday tool, the potential for positive impact on interoperability seems great.