The Planning and Structuring of Weapon Systems.
Abstract
This report presents the theory and application of a fundamental approach to weapon system studies. Called Battle Dynamics, this approach involves the dynamical interactions between the basic parameters or first order terms of the offensive and defensive weapon systems in the battle. The primary principal used in Battle Dynamics is structuring the battle process by possibility or state diagrams which result in probabilistic math models (referred to as Markov chains in the literature) that are readily and rapidly solved by digital computers. The objective of this report, and Battle Dynamics in general, is to provide concepts and data useful in the following areas of weapon system decision making: functional design (specifying a balanced set of performance requirements for the fundamental parameters which truly influence the battle outcome), planning (allocating research or resources for advancing technology in key areas for maximum payoff), evaluation (examining existing or proposed systems in regard to their impact on battle outcome), and operational use (optimizing strategies, tactics, and deployment of weapon systems). The specific defense situations addressed in this report are self-defense of a single ship, escort-defense for a companion ship, and combined self-escort-defense. The Battle Dynamics presented for these defense situations includes describing the battle scene, defining the first order terms, math modeling, computer programming, and numerical evaluations. Although the concepts and data in this report are presented in the terminology of naval anti-air-warfare, Battle Dynamics methodology is applicable to all types of warfare systems. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1968
- Accession Number
- AD0844771
Entities
People
- Donald E. Cole
- Leonard F. Buchanan
Organizations
- General Dynamics