Analytical Evaluation of UNREP (Underway Replenishment) Methods Using the Model BFORM (Battle Force Operation Replenishment Model)

摘要

This thesis measures the operational cost to the battle group due to refueling, using an Average on Station Time (AST) as the measure of effectiveness. Present day ship characteristics and capabilities are used. Three generic battle group formations are examined, each of which looks at both an extended and a close-in formation. The commodity considered is fuel (DFM and JP-5). Variable evaluated include Speed of Advance (SOA), UNREP speed, and method of UNREP. Using the results from a model called BFORM, the thesis gives an analytical evaluation of the trade offs between two methods of UNREP (delivery boy and service station). Results show quantitatively the extent of the advantage of the delivery boy method over the service station method. The advantages held for all circumstances investigated. Another major study focus was on AOE idle time. Whenever idle time is greater than 15% over a ten day period the formation can be serviced, no matter how many ships are involved, how wide their separation, or how great the SOA.(KR)