Modeling a nuclear detonation in a conventional campaign simulation

Abstract

Military analysts use large simulation models to evaluate potential conventional wars. The proliferation of nuclear weapons has increased the potential for one or a few of them to be employed in a conventional conflict. While complex nuclear effects models exist, their damage levels and measures are not commensurate with what is found in conventional campaign simulations. In this article, we use simple range-to-effects approximations that can be scaled for detonation yield and height of burst (HOB) for the impact of nuclear effects on various combat unit types. We incorporate these relationships in the synthetic theater operations research model (STORM), a widely used conventional campaign simulation. We demonstrate that nuclear detonations can be integrated into campaign simulations and show the impact that a single nuclear weapon may have on conventional force operations.