Real-time rule based resource allocation in naval command and control

It is argued that automation can be provided in the area of reactive resource allocation on a worship and is a more straightforward problem than initially conceived. The output of such a system, be it fully automated or performed by men with decision support, is capable of being evaluated and compared with human performance alone, both in terms of effectiveness in countering the threat, and for speed of response. A spin-off from the implementation of a resource allocation prototype may be its value as a training aid, enabling experiential learning and student-paced development of expertise at the same time as the development of trust and confidence in the system. In this form it could also provide a `what if´ test bed on which principal warfare officers could explore variations of tactics prior to a mission