Framework for Airspace Situation-awareness Training (FAST)

ABSTRACT: Knowledge Based Systems, Inc. (KBSI) proposes to design and demonstrate a simulation-based training framework to improve RPA-operator airspace situation awareness. A key innovation is the use of simulation-based training methods to increase and maintain airspace situation awareness with manned and RPA systems. The resulting"Framework for Airspace Situation-awareness Training (FAST)"will provide automation support for multiple functions including (i) creation of instructionally sound scenario-based training content for airspace management and de-confliction for systems that include manned and RPA systems; (ii) authoring and adaptively evolving scenarios that improve the effectiveness of simulation-based training for airspace situation awareness with manned and RPA systems; (iii) measuring airspace management and de-confliction performance; and (iv) delivering high fidelity immersive training for enhanced airspace situation awareness with manned and RPA systems. Building off the results of the successful Phase I project, KBSI"s proposed Phase II effort will (i) establish FAST Phase II application requirements, (ii) design FAST scenario content, performance measurement, and adaptive scenario generation, (iii) demonstrate a focused, field-able, and scalable simulation-based training application of the FAST technology. BENEFIT: The main benefits of the proposed research include the following: (i) significant improvement in the quality of training for airspace management, situation awareness, communications, and control for both manned and RPA systems; (ii) significant decrease in the time and cost to create and maintain instructionally valid simulation-based training content; and (iii) reduced cost to build and deploy simulation-based training for both manned and RPA systems. FAST has numerous military and commercial applications including adaptive simulation based combat training, emergency response training, border security training, missile defense planning, and emergency response planning.