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Case Study

Australian Defence Communications and Information Systems Program: Adoption of a Mission Engineering Approach

Oct 24, 2024 • 1 min read

The Challenge

Defence is developing a complex Communications and Information Systems (CIS) program—a system-of-systems integral to achieving mission outcomes across multiple domains. Historically, Defence has relied on the One Defence Capability System (ODCS ) for managing capability requirements. However, as the complexity of systems and technologies has increased, the traditional methods have proven inadequate for articulating multifaceted requirements.

The CIS program faces several unique challenges, including the need for:

  • Clear and consistent communication across various subsystems and stakeholders
  • Accurate representation of interdependencies within the system-of-systems
  • Effective communication of complex technical requirements to non-technical decision-makers
  • Adaptability to rapidly evolving technological landscapes and threat environments.

The Solution: Mission Engineering Approach with Digital Engineering

To address these challenges, Defence sought a more robust framework that could enhance its communication of complex requirements and improve decision-making. Downer, in partnership with LinQuest (US), implemented a Mission Engineering approach powered by Digital Engineering. This approach was designed to complement existing ODCS processes by integrating mission outcomes into the capability development process. Key digital tools and platforms employed in this approach include:

  • Sparx Enterprise Architect (SPARXEA): A Systems Modelling Language (SysML) modelling tool, hosted on Australian cloud infrastructure (Azure), used to create visual models of systems
  • MATLAB and PowerBI: Used to analyse and present model outputs. 

These tools facilitated:

  • Validation of the Operational Concept Document (OCD) by identifying and refining critical system dependencies and interdependencies.
  • Tracing of Function and Performance Specification (FPS) requirements back to mission objectives and systems components.
  • Development of a mechanism for assessing communications capability resilience, ensuring the system's robustness across various operational scenarios.

The model incorporated not only technical interfaces and operations but also behavioural elements to include all Fundamental Inputs to Capability elements such as business processes and training.

Outcomes and Benefits

The integration of the Mission Engineering approach with Digital Engineering, led by Downer, has significantly transformed how Defence plans, manages, and evolves its communications capabilities. This framework provides the Capability Manager with a mission-focused, data-driven method for decision-making across the project lifecycle, yielding several key benefits:

  • System Integration: The model supports integration across Defence systems, providing a comprehensive view that helps identify operational gaps, risks and opportunities for improvement.
  • Improved Capability Tracking: Defence can now dynamically assess capability needs and system performance, enabling early identification of potential issues and opportunities.
  • Mission-Focused Planning: Ensures that all systems work collaboratively to meet mission objectives, rather than evaluating equipment in isolation, leading to better resource alignment and outcomes.
  • Agility in Operations: Defence can rapidly adjust systems and strategies to respond to emerging threats and evolving operational environments, ensuring a resilient communications infrastructure.
  • Prioritised Investments: By refining and tracking capability needs, Defence can allocate resources more effectively, focusing on delivering immediate mission-critical capabilities while planning for future enhancements.

Downer's continued application of Mission Engineering methodologies, coupled with the implementation of a digital engineering environment, will ensure that Defence remains at the forefront of capability development. This program goes beyond improving a single system, serving as a blueprint for transforming how Defence plans, develops and manages its communication capabilities in the future. By focusing on mission outcomes and leveraging digital tools, this pioneering initiative lays the foundation for more intelligent, efficient military planning across all domains.