An MBSE Methodology to Support Australian Naval Vessel Acquisition Projects

Abstract

This paper covers research to construct a Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) methodology to support above-the-line, or left-of-contract stakeholders during the early stages of Australian naval vessel acquisition projects. These projects now adopt off-the-shelf (OTS) acquisition strategies as the default approach. OTS acquisition strategies change the nature of defence acquisition projects from the traditional top-down, requirements-driven approach to a middle-out approach. In the middle-out approach, the required functions are decomposed from the capability needs, whilst existing OTS offerings are scrutinised to find those that best satisfy the capability needs with minimal design changes. This scrutiny of the OTS solution space is generally undertaken without extensive design data being available to the acquirer. The MBSE methodology that has been constructed comprises two main parts. The first part of the MBSE methodology is a concept and requirements exploration approach, which is the focus of this paper. Of significance, this stage of the methodology incorporates set-based design principles, model-based conceptual design, and design patterns. MBSE is used as the backbone of the methodology to manage and guide the early stage acquisition and analysis activities, whilst maintaining traceability to strategic needs. The paper includes an example implementation of the methodology for an indicative Hydrographic and Oceanographic Survey vessel capability.