War and serious gaming: MPS students play blackout scenarios

At the beginning of February, the first block course took place as part of the IFSH Master's programme in cooperation with the Bundeswehr Command and Staff College (BwCSC). This pilot event met with great demand: Over 100 students from the MPS and other degree programmes at the University of Hamburg were interested in the "Practical Introduction to War and Serious Gaming" event. The selected participants were given a concrete impression of the concepts of "resilience" and "networked security". The focus was on playing the blackout simulation "Neustart", in which the participants were confronted with the consequences of a widespread power outage and played the part of a crisis team as urban actors. The participants took part in the "Neustart" blackout simulation, in which they were confronted with the consequences of a widespread power outage and played the part of a crisis team as municipal actors. It quickly became clear how important interdisciplinary thinking in networks is in such crisis situations. Only those who know and understand each other can focus their own expertise on a joint solution.

In particular, the reflection phase, in which the knowledge gained in the game was transferred to the personal and professional environment, provided added value for the participants. "Neustart" was a successful example of how the deeper purpose of gaming is not to provide answers, but to ask the right questions first. In this context, the participants also learnt about agile project management methods. By incorporating digital collaboration and planning tools, it was possible to plan and coordinate the joint approach. The event was framed by an introduction to the BwCSC innovation lab. Modern architectural approaches and the integration of high-end technology such as data glasses promote individualised learning and problem-solving, creative thinking. In the "War Rooms", participants were able to familiarise themselves with operational and strategic wargames and their special features.

A successful kick-off event that will be continued next year.