A two-sided optimization of border patrol interdiction

Abstract

The United States Border Patrol (USBP) is responsible for interdicting unauthorized entry into the U.S. The USBP must decide how to allocate its detection and interdiction assets to maximize the probability of catching illegal aliens along the border. We study the case where an infiltrator can observe USBP preparations, and then choose a path into the U.S. We define the infiltrator's courses of actions to maximize the probability of escape, and then express the USPB's courses of actions to minimize that maximum achievable probability of escape. This case applies especially well to a signal entry, e.g. a well-planned, one-time smuggling of a weapon of mass destruction. We solve a sample problem for the U.S. Mexican border near Yuma, Arizona.