Accession Number:

ADA008491

Title:

Missiles, MIRVS, or Information - A Model for Comparative Assessment

Descriptive Note:

Corporate Author:

ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS DIV HANSCOM AFB MA

Personal Author(s):

• Wech, Otto A.
• Kenny, Kathleen

Report Date:

1972-12-01

Pagination or Media Count:

24.0

Abstract:

To maintain a strategy of realistic deterrence with a missile force which is by agreement limited and inferior in numbers, one must look for improvements elsewhere. Improved CEP, MIRVs, or the use of battle information are possible options. This paper presents a model and some of the results obtained in the evaluation of such dissimilar alternatives. In contrast to most strategic war models, a method of abstraction rather than simulation is used. Analytic expressions relating the key parameters are presented. Their solution leads to new insights into the nature of counterforce war and the role information can fulfill. A numerical quantity, called Counter Force Potential CFP, is defined. It describes and governs the ability of a missile force to wage an effective counterforce war.

Descriptors:

• *COUNTERMEASURES
• *NUCLEAR WARFARE
• *NUCLEAR WEAPONS
• CIRCULAR ERROR PROBABLE
• DAMAGE ASSESSMENT
• GUIDED MISSILE SILOS
• HARDENED STRUCTURES
• MILITARY INTELLIGENCE
• MULTIPLE OPERATION
• NUCLEAR WARHEADS
• WAR GAMES

Subject Categories:

• Nuclear Warfare

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE