Validering av SLB: Resultat från PTK 2008

Developing the Swedish Armed Forces (SwAF) command and control system for battalion level and below (SLB) utilized during 2008 a test and evaluation detachment (PTK) organised at the Boden garrison to validate the system. SLB was field tested during exercises with the mechanized battalion and validation aimed at forming basis for requirements on coming versions of SLB. The Swedish Defence Research Agency FOI was tasked by the SwAF ground forces combat school (MSS) to support validation with collection, compilation and analyzes of data. Information was gathered several times during exercises utilizing different data sources. User experience and comments on the system was prioritized and was investigated with inquiries, implemented in the SwAF's tool for data collection in tactical unit evaluation (ISAM), and with structured group discussions. Technical data on system utilization was also collected and is stored and handled by FOI for coming use within MSS. Validation in PTK 2008 focused on how SLB is used in units in a battalion structure, how users utilize the system and what improvements and changes the units think they need, to enable development of a better system. All users are very positive and se great benefits in using SLB. They also see great potential for the system if SLB becomes a natural part of all unit activity. Most insufficiencies identified can be connected to a recurrent expression of simplicity and speed. The general idea with SLB and its use was approved, but a general perception was that system preparation and adaption was insufficient for the involved units and operators. The adaptation problem was early identified by responsible personnel at the PTK and the opinions and comments expressed in this report is assessed to be solved to a large extent by adaptation of SLB base data. A fundamental lesson learned is to allocate time, resources and effort to adapt the system for the actual target group by working with SLB base data. The results from validation in he PTK and also in the staff training facility (LTA) can be used as a check list for coming test and evaluation trials what can be handled by adaptations in base data and what requires specific programming and systems development.