Coastal hazards preparedness through wargaming, modeling, and simulation: application of a military installation resilience review to inform stakeholder-engaged planning for a maritime community

This paper describes the application of wargaming-based approach (scenario-based planning via a tabletop training exercise) to address the complex issue of local climate impacts germane to Naval base operations within the context of its neighboring communities. Using a novel interdisciplinary approach, our team conducted a Military Installation Resilience Review to inform Naval Station Newport (Rhode Island, U.S.A.) and the three surrounding municipalities on fostering, protecting, and enhancing a resilient future against natural hazards. This approach – and its outcomes – provide a strong foundation for continued collaborative efforts of federal and local entities to build present-day resilience and response to natural hazards that may impact future operations and readiness. It addresses future environmental conditions, supporting long-term planning and mitigation for natural hazard risks. The project identifies numerous interdependencies between Naval Station Newport and the municipalities concerning critical infrastructure resilience. It sets the groundwork for a coastal hazard-resilient future that emphasizes collaboration and complements the socioeconomic and environmental components of its coastal community. Lastly, this pilot project serves as a model that may be applied to assessing infrastructure resilience at ports and other maritime bases.