This study investigates the problem of real time low-level mission planning against highly transient targets within the Battlefield Air Interdiction (BAI) environment. The dual objective was to test the feasibility of a computerized mission planning aid and reducing computer memory requirements to a level that would allow implementation of the mission planning aid on a modern mini-computer system. The model is based on concept of using Multi-Attribute Decision Analysis (MADA) to capture the decision making process of experienced mission planners and Selective Terrain Mapping (STM) to reduce the computer data storage requirements. The model uses a dynamic programming algorithm to produce an 'optimal' flight path through a given environment. Optimality is based entirely on the ability to capture the mission planners decision making process. From the results of this study, it was concluded that the approach is feasible, the model will produce acceptable flight paths, the mission planners' decision making process can be captured using MADA, and STM will adequately reduce the computer storage requirements. (Author)
