Simulation of the attack helicopter Mil Mi-24 conducting anti-surface air operations in support of a battalion task group

Abstract

The paper presents an experiment of air support of ground units at the level of battalion task force in an offensive operation. Statistical techniques were used in this approach to estimate the outcomes of the operation from the data generated by a simulation model. The experiment was conducted with the support of the Masa SWORD simulation technology for different scenarios involving the pilot characteristics, firing distances, range of air defense, and the use of different unit sensor capacities. As part of the different scenarios, we present sensor results for use in different attack scenarios with different enemy capabilities at the tactical level and the impact of air support of the battalion’s task force in destroying a company-sized enemy. The experiment allows evaluation of different pilot training levels, stress levels, and other climatic influences. These factors provide information on when and how (with what desired effect) a strike can be executed, by what means (systems) it is to be executed, and what the constraints are in executing it. The constraints are imposed by electronic warfare (EW), level of camouflage, and air defense. We have determined using the Masa SWORD simulation program that the use of helicopters to support the battalion task group will significantly reduce the loss of life and reduce the time to destroy the enemy.