Modeling Terrain Effects on Non-Strategic Nuclear Weapons
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Abstract
Building upon previous work, this project improved an existing simulation program for the tactical employment of non-strategic nuclear weapons by improving its predictive damage equations and incorporating shielding effects of terrain. Using data from the United States Geological Survey, this research created a sub-routine within the model to determine if there is a line of sight between detonation location and a potential target, adjusting the predicted damage accordingly. We found that this addition could have a significant impact on casualty estimates. However, the increased runtime had a detrimental effect on the usability of the estimate. The improved model will provide battlefield commanders with more accurate casualty estimates during wargames and will increase mission readiness for a nuclear battlefield. Further research should focus on increasing the efficiency of the simulation.