By The Louisiana Tech Research Institute (LTRI) in Bossier City welcomed nearly 140 scientific and defense specialists in October for a 10-day wargame exploring future concepts. These concepts could potentially be fielded within the next decade to provide the United States and its allies with the capabilities to deter and defeat adversaries in an increasingly unstable geopolitical environment.
Collaborative Effort Bringing Experts Together
The Air Force Material Command’s (AFMC) Science and Technology Wargame 2024 brought together weapons systems operators, planners, and logisticians with scientists and engineers from multiple Air Force Research Laboratory divisions. The collaborative teams explored a variety of innovative concepts and shared feedback on which technologies should be further developed and deployed to ensure strong and effective capabilities across all areas of defense.
LTRI’s Inaugural Major Event
This was LTRI’s first opportunity to host a major multi-day event and welcome participants from around the world. Team LTRI, supported by Louisiana Tech President Jim Henderson and the Cyber Innovation Center (CIC), were applauded for their “can-do” approach to meeting gamers’ needs, Southern hospitality, and the state-of-the-art facility within the National Cyber Research Park.
“Hosting this group of wargamers aligns with LTRI’s dedication to addressing complex challenges through innovation and collaboration,” said Warren Ward, LTRI Chief of Staff. “This event not only showcased our advanced facilities and expertise but also reinforced our role in fostering partnerships that drive economic and technological progress.”
Advancing Defense and Intelligence
LTRI supports defense and intelligence communities by advancing applied research in three core areas:
- Project Management: Streamlining and enhancing the management of defense projects to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.
- Program Development: Innovating and developing new defense programs that meet emerging threats and challenges.
- Cyber Surety and Resiliency: Strengthening cybersecurity measures to protect against digital threats and ensure resilient defense systems.
Impact and Future Prospects
The successful hosting of the AFMC Science and Technology Wargame 2024 marks a significant milestone for LTRI, positioning the institute as a key player in defense research and strategic innovation. The insights gained from the wargame will inform future technological developments and strategic initiatives, ensuring that the United States maintains a competitive edge in defense capabilities.
Table: Key Highlights of the Wargame
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Louisiana Tech Research Institute, Bossier City |
| Duration | 10 Days |
| Participants | ~140 scientific and defense specialists |
| Focus Areas | Future defense concepts, technological advancements |
| Supporting Entities | Louisiana Tech President Jim Henderson, Cyber Innovation Center (CIC) |
| Facility | National Cyber Research Park |
The 2024 Air Force Science and Technology Wargame hosted by LTRI has set a precedent for future collaborative defense initiatives. By bringing together a diverse group of experts and fostering an environment of innovation and strategic planning, LTRI has demonstrated its capacity to contribute significantly to national and allied defense capabilities. As geopolitical tensions continue to evolve, such initiatives will be crucial in maintaining preparedness and technological superiority.