Aggregation, Disaggregation, and the 3:1 Rules in Ground Combat
This report illustrates a number of basic principles about aggregation and disaggregation in combat modeling by working through the mathematics and phenomenology of a concrete example. In the example, simplified ground combat takes place in a number of sectors and subsectors within a theater. The author assumes that combat at some level of detail is dictated by the Lanchester square law then discusses whether an aggregate law, Lanchester or otherwise, applies at the next level up (that is, one with more aggregation and less detail). The answer depends on the ratios of several time scales related to information, decisions, maneuver, and the duration of a breakthrough battle. The author also discusses how the 3:1 rule does and does not apply at different levels of combat.
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Document Details
- Copyright: RAND Corporation
- Availability: Available
- Print Format: Paperback
- Paperback Pages: 46
- List Price: $23.00
- Paperback Price: $18.40
- Document Number: MR-638-AF/A/OSD
- Year: 1995
- Series: Monograph Reports
Contents
Preface HTML
Figures
Figures and Tables HTML
Summary HTML
Chapter One
Introduction HTML
Chapter Two
The Microscopic Model: The Lanchester Square Law on Combat Sectors HTML
Chapter Three
Deriving Aggregate Models for Cases Without Reinforcement or Redeployment of Forces HTML
Chapter Four
Generalizing: Effects on Aggregation of Reinforcement and Maneuver HTML
Chapter Five
Implications for Temporary Disaggregation in Simulations, Including Distributed Interactive Simulation HTML
Chapter Six
Conclusions and Summary HTML
Appendix
Lanchester Equations and Scoring Systems HTML
Bibliography HTML
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