Mathematical analysis of algorithms within MANA

Abstract

MANA (Map Aware, Non-uniform, Automata) is an agent-based, time-stepped, stochastic mission-level modeling environment developed by the New Zealand Defense Technology Agency (DTA). While the MANA user manual goes into detail about setting up a scenario and navigating the user interface, it does not discuss some of the underlying mathematical procedures and algorithms resulting in many individuals utilizing MANA to analyze military operations without necessarily understanding how the results are achieved. The purpose of this thesis is to explore the mathematical formulas that MANA utilizes in an effort to aid in creating a more informed understanding of results reached by MANA. This work is intended as a supplement to the current MANA user manual. We will investigate how manipulating the parameters of the squads’ influence behavior on the battlefield. The format will follow a militarily oriented thought process of shoot, move and communicate, investigating mathematically how results are reached within the model. At the conclusion, there will be recommendations as to follow-up work.