The revolution of constructive simulation in the Global South: a comparison of the use of SWORD software
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5902/2357797596435Keywords:
Constructive simulation, Global South, Strategic autonomy, Defense governance, Operations researchAbstract
This paper investigates the strategic importance of constructive simulation for defense sovereignty and governance, conducting a comparative analysis of the use of MASA SWORD software in Brazil (COMBATER System), Czechia (SWORD), and France (SOULT System). The study examines how countries with different geopolitical contexts converge toward the use of simulation as a tool for the scientific validation of military capabilities. Through a multiple case study, the article demonstrates that the transition from traditional "wargaming" to science-based simulators enables resource optimization in restricted defense budgets, which are typical of emerging and middle powers. The analysis shows that technological standardization facilitates military cooperation and defense diplomacy, while the robustness of the generated data strengthens transparency and effectiveness in strategic decision-making. The conclusion highlights that constructive simulation is an essential component for technological autonomy within modern military production chains.
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