A monthly sortie scheduling model for improved EA-6B Prowler combat readiness

Abstract

EA-6B Prowler crews conduct a variety of missions and are required to fly and train with sufficient regularity to maintain combat proficiency. These crews maintain this proficiency by completing regularly scheduled training qualifications. Squadrons determine their readiness level based on the percentage completion of these qualifications. Squadrons currently use an ad hoc method for scheduling training. This thesis develops a mixed integer program to plan monthly sorties, as a decision aid for squadron operations officers. The goal is to maximize squadron combat readiness by minimizing the number of aviators not fully combat-ready, subject to the number of flights available. The model is programmed in the GAMS language and uses a spreadsheet interface for both input and output. It is typically solved in 10 minutes on a Pentium 120 MHz PC with the OSL solver. The output is a matrix of pilots to flight assignments and aircrew to flight and seat assignments. This approach immediately yields a 10% improvement in average monthly readiness as compared to the ad hoc method and should be implemented as a methodology for scheduling monthly sorties.