AFIT/CDE has developed and uses several models to explore particular directed energy concepts, assist engineers refine the preliminary system designs, and perform a variety of related studies and analyses for both operator and system developer. Because of the importance of the challenges addressed by these models and simulations, the HEL JTO M&S Technology Area Working Group (TAWG), has selected certain models, including LEEDR, to undergo formal Verification and Validation (V&V). 

 

The benefits of V&V are many, but most importantly it provides confidence in the use of the M&S tool. Verification determines that a model accurately represents the developer’s conceptual description and specifications. Verification answers the question “Does the tool work as intended?” Validation, on the other hand, determines the extent to which the model accurately represents the real world from the perspective of the intended use of the tool. Validation answers the question “Is the tool realistic?”

 

LEEDR's V&V activity is ongoing and has been grounded in DoD Instruction 5000.61 and MIL-STD-3022. The effort has been facilitated by an independent agent, which is the US Navy's Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), Battlespace Modeling and Simulation Division.   To date, NAVAIR, AFIT/CDE, and subject matter experts drawn from across DoD, have methodically reviewed LEEDR's intended uses, associated requirements, as well as appropriate measures and metrics to assess the code's capability, credibility, and usability. Phase I culminated on 22 April 2015 with release of a report documenting this V&V framework as well as LEEDR V&V results for intended use #1, support of Directed Energy (DE) simulation, test, mission planning, and execution. For this particular application, LEEDR received high marks relative to capability and accuracy with more modest reviews relative to configuration management and user documentation.   The full report is available on request.