Applications of Joint Tactical Simulation modeling

Abstract

Advances in technology allow Computer Simulation Models (CSM) to be used as a powerful tool to aid military decision makers. This thesis explores the usefulness of one of these models, the Joint Tactical Simulation (JTS). First, this thesis outlines the information and tasks required to run JTS, which will give the reader a basic understanding of the program and how much effort it requires. Next, it describes the scenario presented in this thesis by detailing the methodology of terrain development, listing the assets required and the mission concept employed. It concludes by discussing some of the advantages and disadvantages of JTS followed by a reevaluation of the simulation and its possible uses. The concluding appendix is a tutorial that guides the reader through an amphibious assault modeled on the UNIX-based computer systems at the Naval Postgraduate School's (NPS) Secure Systems Technology Laboratory. It was designed to be accomplished in less than four hours and give the user an opportunity to run a simulation while conducting minimal interaction