A computer simulation of logistics networks for wargame umpires

Abstract

The Logistics Wargaming Simulation (LogWarS) is a computer program designed to facilitate the incorporation of logistics considerations and constraints into wargames played at the Wargaming department of the Naval War College. LogWarS helps a wargame umpire create a scenario of units and bases, their supply requirements, and the transportation assets available to move supplies. Once the scenario is created, LogWarS steps it forward in time, allowing the umpire to examine the supply status of the units and bases at various points in the future. The umpire uses the supply status to inform the wargame players of their ability to conduct operations. The umpire may also modify elements of the scenario, at any time step, in order to reflect events in the wargame-events such as the destruction of supply depots or the addition of transportation assets. LogWarS adds a graphical interface and new ways to follow the supply status of units and bases to the original version of the Surge and Sustainment Simulation program created by two other Naval Postgraduate School students.