Methodology for Evaluating Intra-theater Airlift Options and the Bed-Down Decision

摘要

This thesis develops a method to assist decisionmakers in basing intra-theater airlift job requirements. The strengths of optimization models and simulation models are used in the bed-down decision (location of the airlift forces in the network). An integer linear programming model is developed to generate alternate candidate basing decisions for analysis and testing. A network simulation model, FLEETLIFT, is developed to further evaluate candidate basing decisions. This model captures the dynamic effects of the availability of material handling equipment (MHE) limited airfield ramp space, variable distance between network airfield locations, and variable combat attrition and planning factors such as limited aircrew and limited aircraft loading capacity. It uses a generic airfield (can be used as an airfield or drop zone), with input parameters for MHE capability, airfield ramp space limitations, and aircraf servicing capabilities to represent a specific airfield. Additionally, 19 user functions are developed to simulate scheduling available airlift jobs based on their priority, airfield loading and and unloading of 10 different aircraft cargo categories, airfield saturation, and airfield servicing.