Weapons Mix Problem: A Math Model to Quantify the Effects of Internetting of Fires to the Future Force

摘要

The goal of this report is to describe a method for answering the question, How might internetted weapons be best employed. Additionally, this study provided a better understanding of the IOF process and a means to quantify its relationship to combat outcome. An important aspect of implementing the IOF concept will be to discover how best to allocate fire missions from a collection of shooters on a network. This report describes the design and use of an analytical tool to assist in determining the allocation of weapons to targets. Proof-of-principle examples that demonstrate the model's utility are given, along with observations and a discussion on the way ahead for this methodology. The tool was designed to be simple, unencumbered, and transparent, enabling the customer to use it quickly to develop insights into weapon allocation and other aspects of future battle command systems. This work should be of interest to those involved in C4ISR design, development, and system acquisition planning for the Army's Future Force.