A combined approach for fuzzy multi-objective multiple knapsack problems for defence project selection

In this study, a model representing military requirements as scenarios and capabilities is offered. Pair‐wise comparisons of scenarios are made according to occurrence probabilities by using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). The weights calculated from AHP are used as the starting weights in a Quality Function Deployment (QFD) matrix. QFD is used to transfer war fighter requirements into the benefit values of projects. Two levels of QFD matrices are used to evaluate new capability areas versus capabilities and capabilities versus projects. The benefit values of the projects are used in a multi‐objective problem (multi‐objective multiple knapsack problem) that considers the project benefit, implementation risks and environmental impact as multiple objectives. Implementation risk and environmental impact values are also calculated using the same combined AHP and QFD methodology. Finally, the results of the fuzzy multi‐objective goal programming suggest a list of projects that offers optimal benefit when carried out within multiple budgets.