PLEXSYS Releases StrataSim 1.5, Introduces New Board Member

PLEXSYS Interface Products, Inc. has introduced its StrataSim 1.5 software release and also welcomed recently retired Rear Admiral Dave Welch to its Board of Directors in March 2022.

StrataSim brings a centralized synthetic environmental data model that can respond to several environmental data dimensions, including terrain, weather, bathymetry, water awareness, and road routing. These capabilities are instrumental for several PLEXSYS products, including ASCOT and sonomarc, elevating entity, sensor, and radio models’ fidelity and interactions.

Some of the key product features include a complete synthetic environmental data package, allowing customers to manage multiple aspects of environmental data in a centralized solution; the ability to model dynamic weather, where weather conditions change over time; and the ability to load DTED and SRTM terrain data, allowing access to high-quality data in any setting.

This software release focused on several models and interfaces to expand StrataSim functionality. Some of the changes included added support for Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) Web Coverage Service (WCS), allowing terrain and bathymetry data to be obtained via WCS endpoints from compliant repositories; and added support for CAE weather server API, introducing a new channel for obtaining weather data.

In addition to the new release, the company also celebrates the addition of its new board member. Welch has joined PLEXSYS’ Board of Directors to deliver extensive leadership and operational experience in maritime and professional training.

“From the moment I met Dave, I knew he would bring value to our PLEXSYS Next journey. First, he spoke Navy, was fluent in all things training readiness, walked with humble credibility, and had a passion for innovation in technology and process,” said Ron Wiegand, PLEXSYS President, and CEO. “As we expand into supporting the maritime domain across the globe, Dave’s experience and thought leadership will be invaluable in navigating to greater success.”

Before he retired from the US Navy, Welch commanded the Navy’s Pacific Fleet training carrier strike group, charged with preparing operating forces for deployed operations. This training included expanded use of simulators and Live Virtual and Constructive (LVC) training systems. Welch also led the elite Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center and improved tactical excellence in live-fire drills, again expanding the role of LVC training to build proficiency.

Welch is a gifted leader with extensive experience training individuals, tactical teams, and large operational organizations to high certification standards. He is a United States Naval Academy graduate and holds a Master of Arts degree from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California.