Resource Optimization for Battle Management

Resource optimization for battle management in ballistic missile defense requires the determination of both the optimal allocation and optimal employment of sensors and weapons against threat launches. This becomes especially difficult for threats in ascent phase, where the class of potential algorithms is restricted by severe time and information constraints. In this proposal, we focus on the allocation problem, also known as weapon-target assignment (WTA). The objective of WTA is to maximize the surviving value of targeted assets, while maintaining a sufficient weapon inventory to conduct operations against expected future threats. We propose to solve this problem with a fast optimization-based approach that uses decision theory to provide an optimal assignment of weapons systems to threats given a particular set of interceptor constraints, threat properties, and dynamic engagement geometry. This algorithm is intended to operate in either a centralized environment or a distributed environment and will augment the information available to the C2BMC operator for making engagement decisions. The value of our optimization-based approach to battle management will be demonstrated during Phase I using Monte Carlo simulation of representative missile defense scenarios.