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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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Contents
Preface HTML
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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