Naval Battle Group Supply (NBGS) - Using Flexsim

Greenwood, A., Hill. T. W., & MacLeod, K. (2009). Naval Battle Group Supply (NBGS) - Using Flexsim. Adelaide, Australia: SimTect 2009.

The Naval Battle Group Supply (NBGS) model is a dynamic and stochastic representation of the supply of U.S. Navy battle groups (BGs) worldwide by its combat logistics forces. The model measures the Navy’s capability to provide logistics support for critical consumables (ship fuel, aviation fuel, dry goods, and ammunition). Execution of the model provides key system performance measures such as total distances traveled and various service levels, e.g. time combat forces operate below a critical supply level. Information from the model is used to more effectively design supply ships, in terms of sizing and capabilities, and to test and evaluate alternative operating policies. The model considers the supply and resupply of consumables as BGs and supply ships (SSs) carry out operations worldwide. Consumption by BGs, which depends on distances traveled and type of activity, is considered both within theaters of operation and in transit between theater and homeport. Once a BG indicates a need for a consumable, an SS is dispatched to rendezvous with the BG and transfers the material at a model-determined location. Force needs and demand for materials within theaters change based on stochastic actions, e.g. combat, show of force, humanitarian assistance. In order to meet changing force needs, BGs may be pulled from other theaters or from homeport. The model also considers the resupply of supply ships at friendly ports. All combat group and supply ship operational parameter values are populated in the model through a linked database. The NBGS model is developed in Flexsim, a discrete-event and continuous simulation model development and analysis environment.