Representing the command and control process in simulation models of conflict

Command and Control is the process by which military personnel in war comma nd their forces to take account of military aims and objectives. Across NAT O, there is a growing realisation that the proper representation of Command and Control (C2) in models of conflict is very important. Since it essenti ally concerns itself with the representation of human decision-making, this is recognised as one of the most difficult areas for defence analysis. One approach to this problem is through the use of large rule-based expert sys tems. The work reported here lays out an alternative approach founded on th e use of Bayesian inference and transitions between different mission 'stat es', leading to what we call the the mission based approach to Command and Control. These ideas are already being incorporated into the next generatio n of simulation models currently under development which range across the l and/air, maritime and peacekeeping areas of application.