Constrained minimax optimization of continuous search efforts for the detection of a stationary target

Analytical resolution of search theory problems, as formalized by B.O. Koopman, may be applied with some model extension to various resource management issues. However, a fundamental prerequisite is the knowledge of the prior target density. Though this assumption has the definite advantage of simplicity, its drawback is clearly that target reactivity is not taken into account. As a preliminary step towards reactive target study stands the problem of resource planning under a min–max game context. This paper is related to Nakai's work about the game planning of resources for the detection of a stationary target. However, this initial problem is extended by adding new and more general constraints, allowing a more realistic modeling of the target and searcher behaviors. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2007     

Violence and the state: Lessons from Colombia

Whether or not Colombia has improved is a controversial topic. If improvement has occurred, what, if any, lessons from the Colombian model can be learned? The first lesson is that Colombia's problems were caused more by a weak state than by drugs. The second lesson is that improving state capacity requires more than just increased security. The state must also provide the basic social services that citizens require to gain and maintain their support. Additionally, government institutions need to improve their professionalism, protect human rights, and root out impunity and corruption. The alternative is to suffer from new cycles of violence as old foes are vanquished, but new ones emerge.     

Limiting survival functions of self‐similar structures

We show the existence of a unique analytic single parameter limiting survival function arising from the repeated composition of a coherent structure as the number of components tends to infinity. Examples include the repeated composition process of the bridge structure. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2004.     

基于解析算法的声纳浮标搜潜系统定位精度分析

针对基于位置时间参数解析算法的声纳浮标阵搜潜系统的定位精度问题,采用定性和定量分析相结合的方法展开了研究。从解析定位模型出发,首先定性分析浮标自身的定位误差与传感器测时误差对航速及航向角计算的影响;然后选取评价指标,采用蒙特卡洛方法进行了仿真分析,得到了不同仿真条件下各个因素对定位精度具体的影响关系,这些结论为根据精度参数合理选择浮标阵的数量及布放阵型提供了依据。     

小口径速射舰炮武器系统反导射击方法研究

小口径速射舰炮受弹鼓容量及舰炮发射系统限制,一般不能在舰炮武器系统有效射击范围内全航路持续射击,这就要求对射击方法进行研究。应用蒙特卡洛法,在MATLAB软件平台上计算了小口径速射舰炮武器系统对匀速直线运动导弹的命中概率与弹丸相遇点距离间的关系,提出了以全航路最大概率命中导弹有效部位为基础制定射击终止点,反推射击起始点的射击方法,提高了舰炮武器系统在全航路射弹数限定条件下的命中概率;以舰炮武器系统跟踪器最大跟踪角速度限制因素为例,分析了导弹运动速度、航路捷径与射击区域的对应关系,并应用本方法对导弹典型航路的射击方案进行了仿真。仿真结果表明该方法在一定条件下能有效提高舰炮武器系统对导弹的全航路命中概率。     

THE F‐35 JOINT STRIKE FIGHTER AS A SOURCE OF INNOVATIon AND EMPLOYMENT: SOME INTERIM RESULTS

The F‐35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) programme is important for innovation in the Dutch economy and also contributes to other programmes in the aerospace industry (spin‐off) and other industries (spillover). On top of the expected value of US$9.2 billion in development and production, based on interviews with 10 companies and research institutes, an expected spin‐off of US$1.1 billion and an expected spillover of US$120 million will result. In addition, over 23,000 man‐years are associated with the activities in the development and production of the JSF. This study excludes the large and labour‐intensive Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) activities. Further validation of data and an update of current results is planned for 2006.     

ISS Recent publications

The popular adage has it that ‘prevention is better than cure’. Given the heavy and enduring costs of armed conflicts, there is no disputing the fact that making efforts to prevent them from breaking out in the first place is better than waiting until it is too late. This entails two things: conflict prevention measures and early warning systems. Anything that could be done to effectively address the root causes of a conflict before it turns violent may fit into the former, while the latter aims to identify threats to these elements so that effective conflict prevention measures can be taken. In other words, ensuring ‘human security’ is the thrust of the former, while the latter serves as a surveillance camera for any deficit in providing the different components of this ‘human security’. It is with these two important issues that this essay deals, with particular reference to West Africa.