Validating M&S With T&E Data Abstract

When we think of validating models and simulations (M&S), we all think of comparing M&S outputs with test data. But how many of us have ever actually been successful in accomplishing that comparison in any repeatable and statistically significant way? How do you validate models and simulations of complex systems using equally complex testing with many fiscal and technical constraints on data collection? Validating M&S of these complex systems is difficult for a number of reasons, not least of which is obtaining relevant data for all of the functionalities of the system at the level of detail required to compare to M&S inputs and outputs.