Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness evaluation of an advanced artillery weapon system

Abstract

This thesis examines the role of modern artillery as a defensive as well as offensive weapon- one which is capable of destroying targets and achieving an advantage on the battlefield rather than merely performing traditional tasks of attrition. The thesis demonstrates that the new capabilities can be attained. A new concept of artillery weapon system- the Trajectory Corrected Artillery Rocket system (TCAR)- is analyzed. Results show that this new artillery system, when it contains a cluster bomblet warhead, is very effective against infantry in an open area, with destruction levels of 50 to 90 percent. but it is not sufficiently effective against fortified and armored targets. However, when this system accommodates SFM (smart) submunitions, It proves effective against armored vehicles, with destruction levels of up to 70 percent. Simulation programs were developed which assessed damage levels on a variety of targets. A set of these targets was chosen for which a comparison analysis was made between the TCAR and two other well-known artillery systems: 155 mm gun and a free-flight artillery rocket system. Two parameters were tested: rate of kill and marginal cost. Results demonstrate the clear advantages of using TCAR over the other systems when accompanied by a cluster warhead. Furthermore, it was found that the TCAR is the currently preferred system suitable for SFM.