Framework for Refining Extensible and Flexible APB Combat Systems Training for Operator Readiness (REFACTOR)

In developing advanced Submarine Combat Systems, the Navy has adopted a rapid cycle of software upgrades that, within the Advanced Processor Build Technical Insertion (APB-TI) schedule, regularly introduce new capabilities. This upgrade cycle has outpaced the development of associated training systems, which use adapted tactical software and system recordings in a classroom environment to replicate combat systems. The Navy needs a low-cost, easily adapted training framework for Submarine Combat Systems that can be upgraded within the APB-TI schedule to train crews to use evolving capabilities. To address this need, we propose to design and demonstrate a framework for Refining Extensible and Flexible APB Combat Systems Training to Enhance Operational Readiness (REFACTOR). REFACTOR provides a mixed-fidelity, multi-strategy, shore-based training framework for Submarine Combat Systems with intuitive, low-cost tools for evolving training to reflect emerging enhancements. REFACTOR is built on an open-architecture game engine that supports extensible and robust training via a variety of game- and media-based learning delivery methods. REFACTOR also provides intuitive authoring tools for rapid updates to game content (e.g., interfaces and computational logic) and training content (e.g., skill trees and learning modules). Combined, these tools provide the Navy with effective training of new capabilities within the APB-TI schedule.