Research for Ordnance

This research contribution analyzes the problem of ordnance acquisition when the targets to be attacked are uncertain. It introduces the use of a utility function to evaluate the outcome of the attack process. Two models of the attack process are considered: The first assumes that the random target vector is attacked simultaneously with the available weapons. The second is a Sequential-Attack Model (SEAM) in which targets appear one at a time and the attack process continues as long as the current target can be attacked. The expected utility for a mix of weapons for the Simultaneous-Attack Model (SIAM) is computed as the weighted average of the expected utility of the mix of weapons against each target vector. The expected value for the SEAM is estimated by using a simulation of the attack process. It is argued that older methods of selecting weapons are biased towards special-purpose weapons and that the SIAM and SEAM models are not subjected to this deficiency. Furthermore, in spite of being the more complicated model, the SEAM approach appears more realistic in the way that it models that attack process. An operational example is used to illustrate the problem and the SEAM approach.

This paper examines the current force procurement plans of each of the Western European and NATO navies as of the end of 1981 and estimates their impact on future force structure.

This paper deals with the stocking on board ship of the parts needed to repair ships' equipment--especially on cruisers, frigates, and attack submarines. It discusses the purpose and cost of the Coordinated Shipboard Allowance List (COSAL). It describes and evaluates the procedure being used to construct COSALs--the Fleet Logistics Support Improvement Program (FLSIP). It briefly assesses other procedures--particularly the Maintenance Criticality Oriented (MCO) COSAL. Lastly, the report recommends two changes in FLSIP and discusses their effects on readiness and on investment cost.

The purpose of this research contribution is to determine whether there are potential cost savings available to the military through increased purchase of commercial, as opposed to designed-to-specification, equipment and material. This research contribution differs from previous work in that it tries to develop low-cost, survey information on potential savings, and it is designed to be preliminary to a field test of candidate equipment. The equipment studied is that assigned to and used by a Marine 105mm howitzer battery. The method used to gather the commercial cost estimates was to survey commercial manufacturers to obtain cost data on possible substitutes. This method uncovered several items with significant cost-saving potential.