HPS Simulations has completed a project funded by the US Air Force models the effects of a wide range of advanced weapons systems.  The simulation focuses on action at a tactical level, and painstakingly models the capabilities and effects of conventional weapons, along with developing technologies such as lethal/non-lethal Energy Weapons and Point Missile Defense systems.   The software has also been developed as a commercial product, and is the most realistic and detailed combat simulation available on the civilian market. 

The Windows-based simulation, titled Point of Attack 2, is designed by Scott Hamilton and is based on his previous work with Point of Attack, Tigers on the Prowl, and Panthers in the Shadows.  However, in order to incorporate a host of improvements and new concepts, the code has been re-written from scratch.  Examples of these improvements include more accurate penetration and damage calculations, improved morale, leadership and other intangible factors, the ability to model every weapons system currently fielded or envisioned in the next several decades, and the inclusion of a complete range of environmental impacts.  

In addition to predicting the outcomes of  “force on force” engagements, the software is able to provide additional features for the professional military community, i.e.:

The simulation allows quick and easy experimentation for military users.  Data for the various weapons systems can be adjusted at will, using the secure editor to take into account a new design idea, intelligence on threat forces, or an emerging technology.  This also provides the ability to perform a sensitivity analysis.  For example, the designer can look at numerous “what if” scenarios under the best and worst cases to arrive at expected performance range.  By being able to run the same basic scenario multiple times under slightly different assumptions or conditions, the basic employment doctrine for the weapons system can be evaluated and modified as appropriate, based on evaluation of the results.

Similarly, several years ago the Air Force Research Laboratory at Kirtland AFB, NM, released a Broad Agency Announcement seeking bidders to compete for an R&D effort to explore HPM systems for use in “Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD).”  Such systems may someday provide a stand-off capability to disable enemy radar and air defense systems in advance of friendly air missions.  This capability is also explicitly included in PoA2.

This project was funded by AFOSR under a Phase II USDoD “Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR)” Contract, F49620-99-C-0061, covering the period 1 September 1999 to 31 August 2001.