Airlift operations modeling using Discrete Event Simulation (DES)

Abstract

The recently completed integrated project by the Systems Engineering and Analysis Cohort 15 at NPS has devised a regional Maritime Theater Security Force to conduct Phase Zero operations based on a tasking from OPNAV N8F. The force's airlift capability was identified as a critical component in the accomplishment of the missions and the required force structure was determined using a mix of mathematical and linear optimization modeling. The goal for this thesis is to develop a stochastic model using Discrete Event Simulation (DES) that can be employed to analyze the devised force structure's airlift operation performance at the operational/tactical level to augment the analysis work performed under that project. The intent is to provide a more complete solution for any stakeholders who want to take the project further to the next level. The resulting model demonstrates the ability to measure the airlift operation performance and provide insights into the operation workflow efficiency. The experiments conducted support the earlier findings on the devised Phase Zero force's ability to meet the most stringent mission requirements but suggested a different maximum airlift capability.