Abstract

Simulation and optimization are two powerful methodologies that are both widely used across the Department of Defense (DoD) (see Boginski, Pasiliao & Shen, 2015; Dirik, Hall & Moore, 2015; Kannon et al., 2015; and Hill, Miller & McIntyre, 2001 for specific military use cases of simulation and optimization). Simulations are used to understand complex system behavior at multiple levels of fidelity. For example, simulation can be used to perform detailed engineering, design, and testing of individual weapon system components; examine the interaction of components in a single advanced weapon system such as a fighter aircraft or nuclear submarine; analyze a tactical engagement between a few weapons systems such as two American F-22 fighters versus two Russian Su-57 fighters; evaluate and refine air operation plans by simulating multiple fighter engagements over a five-day mission to achieve air superiority; and, finally, estimate military risk for a full land, air, sea, and space theater-level military campaign against an adversary.