DAHLGREN, Va. –
Since the end of World War II, the United States and Japan have been staunch allies, working closely together for the mutual benefit of both countries. In 1951, the two nations signed the U.S.-Japan Mutual Security Treaty, which ended WWII and acted as an outline for the alliance. Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division (NSWCDD) is the leading research and development site for the U.S. Navy. A group of delegates from Japan’s Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Agency, the Office of Naval Research (ONR) and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries visited the warfare center to get a closer look at several up-and-coming technologies, Nov. 16.
The visitors first learned about computational analysis work using modeling and simulation (M&S), as well as the difference between different model-based system engineering approaches. Brent Ridgeway, a project manager with the Weapons Engineering and Missile Integration Branch, explained that rigorous systems engineering needs a tailored approach instead of a one-size-fits-all outlook.
After diving into the world of M&S, the delegation listened to NSWCDD Chief Scientist and Army veteran Gordon Shaw explain the importance of Human Systems Integration (HSI) work and the NSWCDD Human Performance Lab. HSI research and development can mean the world of difference when it comes to protecting users from irreversible, long-term damage.
The emphasis on the military workforce continued during a conversation into integrated topside design and remote gun mounts. Vince Vendetti – a twenty-year veteran to the remote gun mount and remote system world – dove into the importance of considering development and configuration of new technologies onto ships, including operator station considerations.
The delegation then visited the Potomac River Test Range where experts Chelle Kelly and Chester Petry explained the range’s goals and projects.
The alliance between these two nations has remained consistent since the treaty signing in the early 1950s and both countries pledge to continue to strengthen the partnership. Earlier this year, the countries’ two leaders vowed to address climate issues around the globe.