Abstract:
Air Defense Systems contain high-value assets that are expected to fulfill their mission for
several years - in many cases, even decades - while operating in a fast-changing, technology driven
environment.
Thus, it is paramount that decision-makers can assess how effective an Air Defense
System is in face of new developing threats, as well as to identify the bottlenecks that could
jeopardize the security of the airspace of a country. Given the broad extent of activities and
the great variety of assets necessary to achieve the strategic objectives, a systems approach
was taken in order to delineate the core requirements and the physical architecture of an
Air Defense System.
Then, value-focused thinking helped in the definition of the measures of effectiveness.
Furthermore, analytical methods were applied to create a formal structure that preliminarily
assesses such measures.
To validate the proposed methodology, a powerful simulation was also used to determine
the measures of effectiveness, now in more complex environments that incorporate both
uncertainty and multiple interactions of the entities. The results regarding the validity of
this methodology suggest that the chosen approach can support decisions aimed at enhancing
the capabilities of Air Defense Systems.
In conclusion, this paper sheds some light on how consolidated approaches of Systems
Engineering and Operations Research can be used as valid techniques for solving problems
regarding a complex and yet vital matter.
