Comparison of fixed wing aircraft algorithms for JANUS

Abstract

This research compares the fixed wing altitude algorithms utilized in the United States and the Australian versions of the combat modeling tool, JANUS(A). The Australian Army Battle Simulatian Group has recently developed a new algorithm that more realistically models aircraft flight profiles within JANUS(A). A Low-High-Low strike profile was simulated, using both algorithms, against low level, littoral anti-aircraft weaponry The simulated aircraft were flown in a weapons hold environment and number of detections were recorded over the entire strike route as the principal MOE. The simulated aircraft were then subjected to a weapons free environment where engagement data was compiled. The Australian algorithm enabled the operator to alter aircraft altitude and speed during the simulation on command. The ability to alter altitude and speed are essential to accurately modelling tactical evasive manuevers. These alterations are not features incorporated in the present U.S. version of JANUS(A). Analysis indicates this controllability not only reduced the number of detections significantly, but also increased aircraft survivabihty within the strike environment. Both of these phenomenon are expected outcomes of such evasive actions This work also provided the basis for future work that could incorporate virtual simulation with JANUS(A).