CASTLE

Overview

The CASTLE (CBRN Activities Simulation Total Layer Environment) project is an innovative approach, which integrates existing CBRN tools and provides those not yet developed in order to build a good solution to provide CBRN picture for all M&S application areas and to C2 systems for decision making support. It represents a powerful M&S asset to fill the gap in this military problem. This concept was described in detail in the 2023 Report and related I/ITSEC 2023 paper and presented during CA2X2 Forum 2024.

The CBRN layer has been created and tested. Several dispersion simulation tools for the CBRN agent are included in the architecture (ALOHA, HOTSPOT, CBNR ANALYSIS, RISKNET) and the data received from the NATO JCBRN CoE obtained by HPAC were also included in the testing activities. The architecture includes WISDOM, a Wargaming platform useful for visualization and share information with its HLA plugin, MASA SWORD and VBS4 as CGF (Computer Generated Forces) tools. The scenarios have been built to simulate a synthetic CBRN environment with contamination and diffusion data. Several tests have been performed to verify the possibility to integrate all components of the architecture using an ad hoc Application Protocol Interface (API) and share with CGF through HLA. 

The final objective is to provide Commanders as well as training activities with a comprehensive synthetic visualization of the CBRN framework on the battlefield. Many tests had been performed during CWIX 2025, thus providing the possibilities to really understand interoperability issues due to the several simulation systems employed by test partners, as well as their shared expertise. Other developments and tests are ongoing to include more tools and automate as many processes as possible to finally achieve a user-friendly architecture.

 

Ideal “CASTLE” use

  • support decision making
  • capability development
  • education & training
  • system testing
  • support to operations
  • mission rehearsal
  • procurement
  • and MORE…

Know more about CASTLE

To learn more about upcoming events and participation requirements for “CASTLE”: 

Connect with NATO’s Modelling and Simulation Centre of Excellence to deepen your expertise in “CASTLE”.