The AFPS offers Members of Parliament a unique insight into military operations, bridging the gap between governance and defence.
This year’s visit to the now fully operational DEWH highlighted the progress made in wargaming and experimentation, essential for informed decision-making in a complex global security environment.
Highlights from the Visit
DEWH’s Operational Evolution
In just one year, the DEWH has transitioned from a proof of concept to a fully operational hub, hosting military and cross-governmental decision-support activities. Key capabilities include:
- Strategic Defence Planning: Enabling faster, evidence-based decisions.
- Rapid Experimentation: Testing and adapting capabilities to modern challenges.
Wargaming Demonstrations
The visiting MPs engaged with two impactful wargames:
- Ripple Effect:
- Focus: Decision-making on climate change and security.
- Approach: A manual game exposing participants to real-world case study scenarios.
- Command PE:
- Focus: Tactical to operational simulations.
- Features: Utilizes a vast open-source military hardware database to simulate engagements from post-WWII to present-day operations.
Both wargames underscored the value of scenario visualization, strategic thinking, and multidisciplinary decision-making.
AFPS’s Role in Defence Awareness
The AFPS serves as a critical program for educating MPs about military operations, fostering informed contributions to defence debates.
Program Goals
- Provide MPs—most with no prior military experience—with hands-on exposure to defence strategies.
- Promote cross-party collaboration to ensure diverse perspectives on defence and security matters.
2024 Cohort and Outcomes
This year’s AFPS included MPs from all major political parties, reflecting a shared commitment to understanding defence priorities. By the visit’s conclusion, participants gained:
- Insights into military life and challenges.
- Understanding of modern wargaming’s role in shaping defence strategies.
A Legacy of Wargaming
The day ended with a visit to Southwick Park’s D-Day map, a powerful reminder of wargaming’s historical significance in British military strategy. This visit tied past achievements to present innovations, reinforcing the importance of continued adaptation in defence planning.
The Broader Impact of AFPS
| Aspect | Effects |
|---|---|
| Informed Decision-Making | Strengthens MPs’ contributions to defence policies. |
| Enhanced Oversight | Builds democratic accountability in defence matters. |
| Cross-Domain Knowledge | Fosters understanding of modern defence challenges. |
| Interdepartmental Collaboration | Highlights the interconnected roles of government sectors. |
A Stronger Future for UK Defence
The Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme continues to play a pivotal role in bridging the civilian-military divide. By fostering a deeper understanding of military operations and strategic planning, it empowers parliamentary leaders to shape more effective defence policies.
As global security challenges grow increasingly complex, initiatives like the AFPS and facilities like the DEWH provide invaluable tools for ensuring that UK defence remains adaptable, informed, and prepared for the future.
Sources: THX News & Strategic Command.
