Mission Engineering & Integration (ME&I)

The Mission Engineering and Integration (ME&I) program, managed by the Office of the Secretary of Defense, focuses on executing complex analyses and studies using advanced analytical methods and modeling tools. The primary goal is to analyze, design, and integrate current and emerging operational needs to achieve desired mission outcomes. By developing digital models and Joint Mission Engineering Threads (METs), the program evaluates the performance of system-of-systems in executing end-to-end missions within operationally relevant scenarios. These efforts aim to identify solutions that close capability gaps, refine mission architectures, enhance future force capabilities, and inform leadership decisions for transitioning innovative capabilities to warfighters.

The Mission Engineering component emphasizes the development of robust modeling, simulation, and analysis products. This involves quantitatively identifying and assessing candidate technologies that can disrupt adversary kill chains or enhance Blue Force kill chains. Through collaboration with Joint Staff, Combatant Commanders, and other defense agencies, the program develops digital Joint Mission Engineering Threads to evaluate dependencies and risks in mission execution. The focus is on exploring trade-space opportunities for capability development, informing prototype selection, and supporting joint experimentation design.

Advanced Analysis and Capability Development (A2CD) under ME&I continues work initiated by a previous program aimed at creating a continuous innovation environment that accelerates the development and transition of joint capabilities. A2CD focuses on advanced concept development, modeling and simulation technology advancement, and implementing new processes for defense analysis. This includes developing a secure environment for creating advanced modeling tools that support rapid prototyping activities and capability investment decisions.

The Advanced Modeling and Simulation (M&S) Technology effort within A2CD enhances existing frameworks to support multi-level security environments necessary for defense analysis. It aims to deliver new capabilities through user feedback integration while transitioning these tools to the broader defense analytic community. Additionally, a project establishes an MLS-enabled ecosystem for collaborative analysis across government, academia, industry stakeholders, and partner nations. This initiative supports advanced concept development efforts by providing a repository for models and data crucial for defense analysis as strategic conditions evolve.