Next Generation Security Simulation

Next Generation Security Simulation (Next Gen) is a prototype PC-based software tool that can be used by individual security analysts to model terrorist attacks at nuclear facilities. The simulation prototype is able to simulate all three aspects of security (detection, delay, and response). Its algorithms take into account geographical information, and the output from the simulation runs can be displayed using 3-D visualization to help communicate and explain results. There are model resolution gaps between the two sets of models currently used to analyze security systems. On the one hand, one set of current tools (e.g., ASSESS [1-4]) uses simple timeline models to find “worst-case” scenarios, while on the other hand, manpower-intensive combat simulations are used to look at response effectiveness. Next Gen is designed to provide capabilities that fall between the simple timeline models and the human-in-the-loop response simulations. It can take path element detection and delay data from ASSESS and connect that data to a map of the facility. It also has a response model that can be set up and run by an analyst without requiring control by human operators.