AN Alternative to "Suppression": Modeling Methodology for Assessing Indirect Effects of Weapons and Human Performance Degradation
Abstract
Performance of weapon systems and failure of well planned military operations can frequently be attributed to either a malfunction or limitation of the human element. Hence, an accurate quantification of weapons effects should include not only direct effects of weapons (physical destruction/degradation of targets and production of casualties) but also indirect effects. Most algorithms and equations used in military analysis today however do not consider indirect effects of weapons. Traditionally, the notion of suppression has been cited in such a context. The subject of this report is the direct and psychological efforts of weapons. A proposal for modeling them is presented. The difficulties in human performance degradation modeling in the context of modern warfare are discussed. An argument challenging the validity of continued usage of the traditional term suppression is presented. A definition of indirect effects of weapons is offered; a taxonomy of the relevant combat phenomenon is established. A modeling proposal on the quantification of indirect effects is described involving the establishment of five submodels representing several distinct elements of combat system: Individual/Personnel, Visual Detection, Immediate Physical Threat (Firing), Communication and Decision Making.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA226518
Entities
People
- Ada W. Gilman
Organizations
- Ballistic Research Laboratory