An Australian approach to concept development and experimentation: linking strategy to capability

Defence forces continue to evolve as new technologies, approaches to warfare and roles are introduced. With defence being a significant ongoing investment for any nation, and with the typical longevity of the capabilities involved, there are challenges in developing a robust force able to meet its national interests against a backdrop of a changing strategic landscape and constrained budgets. In an effort to address these challenges, an analytical construct has been developed for experimentation that provides a traceable linkage from government guidance through to the capability implications. A key component of the construct is to provide those involved in experimentation exercises with a suitable representation of an active dynamic adversary who is able to stress their responses and expose key vulnerabilities and potential capability tipping points. The principle adopted is that more is learnt by examining the breaking points of the system. This paper outlines the framework and some of the tools and techniques developed in its support. The proposed construct also incorporates a level of scrutiny to establish confidence in results obtained. The framework has been successfully applied to the Australian Defence Capability Program.