Article ID: | iaor1998267 |
Country: | United Kingdom |
Volume: | 48 |
Issue: | 2 |
Start Page Number: | 132 |
End Page Number: | 141 |
Publication Date: | Feb 1997 |
Journal: | Journal of the Operational Research Society |
Authors: | Gass N. |
Keywords: | conflict |
A coherent dynamic combat model is developed from basic principles. The governing set of equations has a striking resemblance to the continuity equation in fluid dynamics with an additional term for the losses of combat units. The salient features of the model are a moving battle front, the replenishment of losses, and the withdrawal of combat units while others are still engaged. A basic example shows that the often used force ratio of three can produce a frontline movement up to 90% of the speed of the attacker. Another example simulates a well documented battle from the American Civil War. It is shown that terrain influences and the absence of reconnaissance had a large adverse effect on the outcome of the battle for the Confederate forces.