Multisensor Hybrid Dynamic Alliance Formation Problem Using Sensitive Particle-Based Dynamic Discrete PSO

In recent years, with the wide application and popularization of artificial intelligence algorithm in the field of multisensor information processing, it has been a research hotspot to solve the problem of sensor alliance formation in the battlefield environment by using multisensor cross-cueing technology. Based on the establishment of the multisensor hybrid dynamic alliance model and objective function, a multisensor cross-cueing algorithm based on dynamic discrete particle swarm optimization (DDPSO) with sensitive particles is proposed and a mechanism of “predict re-predict” is proposed in the process of sensor handover. Simulations have verified the good convergence effect and small detection error of multisensor cross-cueing technology in solving alliance formation problems. Meanwhile, compared with “measurement and then update” and “predict and update” mechanisms, the proposed mechanism is more suitable to the changing combat environment. At the same time, to some extent, it also shows that the artificial intelligence algorithm is more suitable for multisensor information processing.

Slovenian Territorial Defense in the Ten-Day War

In 1991, the process of disintegration of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia began. The former Socialist Republics of Croatia and Slovenia were the first to announce their secession from the Federation in the last days of June. To restore the constitutional order, units of the Armed Forces of the SFR of Yugoslavia were sent to Slovenia, which faced the armed resistance of the Slovenian Territorial Defense (TO RS or TOS). In the Ten-Day War, the Federal troops, despite their numerical and technical advantage, suffered a defeat in the confrontation with the TOS subunits. Decisive for the success of Slovenian actions turned out to be the right choice of method of operation, knowledge of the combat environment, as well as high morale and support provided by the civilian population. The example of the Ten-Day War, an analysis of its course, shows that with the appropriate use of the TOS forces, they can conduct an effective fight against operational troops and be a fully-fledged component of the Armed Forces.

Dynamic Air Target Threat Assessment Based on Interval-Valued Intuitionistic Fuzzy Sets, Game Theory, and Evidential Reasoning Methodology

In order to reduce the uncertainty of target threat assessment results and improve exact target assessment in the complicated and changeable air combat environment, a novel method based on the combination of interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets (IVIFSs), game theory, and evidential reasoning methodology is proposed in this paper. First, the imprecise and fuzzy information of battlefield air target is expressed by IVIFS. Second, the optimal index weight is determined by the interval intuitionistic fuzzy entropy and game theory. And the time series weight is calculated by the inverse Poisson distribution method. Then, the target evaluation information at different times is dynamically fused through an evidential reasoning algorithm. Finally, the accuracy function is applied to obtain the threat ranking of all the targets. A case of the threat assessment of air targets is provided to demonstrate the implementation process of the method proposed in this paper. Simulation experiments show that in a rapidly evolving combat environment, this algorithm can effectively reduce the uncertainty of target threat assessment results. It provides us with a useful way for target threat assessment based on interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets, game theory, and evidential reasoning methodology.

Adaptive Multi-Agent Control Strategy in Heterogeneous Countermeasure Environments

In the rapidly changing air combat environment, it is quite difficult for pilots to make speedy and reasonable decisions in a very short period due to lack of experience and the uncertainty of perception situation. Hence, the authors propose an intelligent cognitive tactical strategy framework of air combat on multi-source information in uncertain air combat situations for decision support. A fuzzy inferring tree method is proposed to simulate human intellection. Then, to further improve the accuracy of the reasoning results, a genetic algorithm is introduced to optimize the structure and parameters of fuzzy rules. The simulation results show that the proposed model is reasonable, fast, accurate, repeatable, and fatigue-free, which lays a good foundation for future high-end unmanned combat explorations.

Effects of Intermediate-Tinted Lenses on Pistol Marksmanship and Visual Performance

ABSTRACT Introduction The standard issue clear or sun Military Combat Eye Protection (MCEP) is often inadequate in visually challenging training or combat environment. Intermediate-tinted lenses may offer a viable option for warfighters operating in dynamic visual conditions such as moving rapidly from bright sunny areas to darker building interiors in combat. Because the use of intermediate-tinted lenses has been delayed as a result of a potential negative impact on vision performance such as color perception, this investigation evaluated several commercially available intermediate-tinted lenses for operation performance during a U.S. military field training. Test lenses complied with all the requirements of the current MCEP except for the visible light transmittance (VLT) values that ranged between 32 and 62%. Materials and Methods Study subjects consisted of 22 service members who attended a military Close Combat and Marksmanship training course in May 2019. Visual and pistol marksmanship performance of three intermediate-tinted lenses (Eye Safety Systems [ESS] Copper [32% VLT], Oakley Prizm TR45 [44% VLT], and ESS Bronze [62% VLT]) was compared to that of a standard issue MCEP, ESS Clear (90% VLT). Quick contrast sensitivity function test was used to assess quality vision (AULCSF, area under a log contrast sensitivity function) and visual acuity (CSF Acuity). Color vision was assessed by Cone Contrast Test. Pistol marksmanship (Bill Drill) was used for performance testing. A pre-survey inquired about MCEP use, and a MCEP survey during the pistol marksmanship testing inquired about lens performance and ranking. Results AULCSF and CSF Acuity were significantly affected by the lenses (general linear model, repeated measures, P < .05). Bonferroni post hoc test showed a significant reduction of binocular AULCSF from ESS Clear to Oakley Prizm TR45 (P = .003) and ESS Copper (P < .001) and a significant reduction in binocular CSF Acuity from ESS Clear to ESS Copper (P = .001). Color vision and pistol marksmanship performance were not significantly affected by wearing different lenses (P > .05). Subjectively, there were no statistically significant differences among study lenses in perceived “clarity of vision,” “ability to clearly identify the target,” or “overall performance” (Friedman test and Wilcoxon signed-rank post hoc test with Bonferroni adjustment, P > .017). Participants ranked Prizm TR45 (44% VLT) and ESS Bronze (62% VLT) lenses significantly more favorably than EES Clear (P = .001 and P = .009). Conclusions Quality of vision and visual acuity decreased with darker lenses; however, the study lenses had insignificant impacts on pistol marksmanship and subjective acceptance. Our surveys indicated that Intermediate-tinted lenses were operationally acceptable and preferred over a standard issue MCEP. While more evaluations for color vision deficient subjects are needed, overall results suggest that commercially available intermediate-tinted lenses may be a viable option to enhance protection and performance in a visually dynamic combat environment.

473. Using Serosurveillance for SARS-CoV-2 to Conserve PCR Tests in a Resource Constrained Combat Environment

Background In March 2020, COVID-19 threatened combat operations in Afghanistan. At that time, the NATO Resolute Support mission involved nearly 17,000 troops from 38 partner nations, plus civilians who support the mission, scattered throughout Afghanistan. While Afghanistan did not initially report many confirmed cases, large numbers of cases were reported from neighboring countries with known migration across the borders (sometimes thousands/day). Military medical leaders advised commanders regarding the potential health risks to the force, balancing with risks to the mission. Quarantine and isolation protocols were established. Public health interventions of social distancing, cloth mask wear, enhanced environmental cleaning, active case finding, and emphasis on hand hygiene and cough etiquette were enforced. However, many base locations were unable to alleviate close living quarters. Testing was identified as a means to assess risk to the population. Testing capabilities were limited, particularly PCR. When this testing strategy was established, the utilization and interpretation of antibody tests was quite controversial. With rapid antibody kits, the time to detection of both IgM and IgG are similar; detection of either cannot identify the time since exposure. Methods A novel surveillance plan was established whereby subpopulations at highest risk for exposure to the virus were screened with antibody tests from 17 Apr-1 Jun, 2020. High risk populations included: those leaving quarantine, base defense guards, isolation unit guards, medical personnel, dining facility workers, and those who interact with local populations. Individuals with detectable antibody (either IgM or IgG) were further evaluated with PCR tests. Results In the first six weeks of this testing strategy, 1957 antibody tests were utilized. A total of 37 specimens were identified antibody positives with seroprevalence of 2% (Figure 1). Thirteen were identified to have positive IgG, 22 with IgM, and 2 with both. PCR was performed on those with detectable antibody, 13 (35%) had positive PCR. Conclusion Serosurveillance of populations at high risk for exposure to the virus is a logical way to conserve testing resources in a constrained combat environment. Disclosures Alex M. Case, n/a, United States Air Force (Employee)

Practical Considerations for a Military Whole Blood Program

Introduction Prehospital care in the combat environment has always been of great importance to the U.S. military, and trauma resuscitation has remained a cornerstone. More evidence continues to demonstrate the advantages of intervention with early transfusion of blood products at the point of injury. The military has recognized these benefits; as such, the Department of Defense Joint Trauma System and the Committee on Tactical Combat Casualty Care have developed new advanced resuscitation guidelines, which now encourage the use of whole blood (WB) in the prehospital setting. Materials and Methods This general review of peer-reviewed journal articles was performed through an extensive electronic search from the databases of PubMed Central (MEDLINE) and the Cochrane Library. Results Based on this literature search, the current evidence suggests that transfusion with WB is safe and efficacious. Additionally, soldier function is preserved after donating fresh WB in the field. Currently, the collection and implementation of WB is accomplished through several different protocol-driven techniques. Conclusion WB has become the favored transfusion product as it provides all of the components of blood in a convenient package that is easy to store and transport. Specifically, group O WB containing low titers of anti-A and -B antibodies has become the transfusion product of choice, offering the ability to universally fluid resuscitate patients despite not knowing their blood group. This new ability to obtain low titer group O WB has transformed the approach to the management of hemorrhagic shock in the prehospital combat environment.

Fracture union rates across a century of war: a systematic review of the literature

IntroductionFractures have been a common denominator of the injury patterns observed over the past century of warfare. The fractures typified by the blast and ballistic injuries of war lead to high rates of bone loss, soft tissue injury and infection, greatly increasing the likelihood of non-union. Despite this, no reliable treatment strategy for non-union exists. This literature review aims to explore the rates of non-union across a century of conflict, in order to determine whether our ability to heal the fractures of war has improved.MethodsA systematic review of the literature was conducted, evaluating the rates of union in fractures sustained in a combat environment over a 100-year period. Only those fractures sustained through a ballistic or blast mechanism were included. The review was in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Quality and bias assessment was also undertaken.ResultsThirty studies met the inclusion criteria, with a total of 3232 fractures described across 15 different conflicts from the period 1919–2019. Male subjects made up 96% of cases, and tibial fractures predominated (39%). The lowest fracture union rate observed in a series was 50%. Linear regression analysis demonstrated that increasing years had no statistically significant impact on union rate.ConclusionsFailure to improve fracture union rates is likely a result of numerous factors, including greater use of blast weaponry and better survivability of casualties. Finding novel strategies to promote fracture healing is a key defence research priority in order to improve the rates of fractures sustained in a combat environment.

Mental Health Service Utilization and Perceived Barriers to Receiving Care in Deployed Soldiers

Introduction Scant research has examined mental health treatment utilization and barriers to care in deployed U.S. soldiers. This study aims to assess mental health treatment utilization in deployed soldiers, including providers used and barriers to care. Materials and Methods U.S. Army soldiers (n = 2,412) in a combat environment were surveyed on psychiatric symptoms, mental health help received, sources of care, and perceived barriers to care by Mental Health Advisory teams from 2009 to 2013. Results Of the 25% of soldiers at mental health risk, 37% received mental health help, with 18% receiving help from a provider. Nonprovider sources of care were utilized significantly more frequently than providers. Soldiers at mental health risk reported significantly greater anticipated career-related stigma, organizational barriers to care, self-reliance views, and negative attitudes toward care, yet these constructs did not differ between who did or did not receive help. Soldiers who received help from providers exclusively reported significantly more anticipated career-related stigma and fewer organizational barriers to care than those that received no help. Soldiers who spent no time living outside the forward operating base and soldiers with six or more types of combat exposures were more likely to receive help. Conclusions Prevalence of common psychopathology and receipt of care in a combat environment was similar to previous reports from postdeployment settings. Nonprovider sources of care were more frequently utilized as compared to an in-Garrison report. Findings suggest important differences exist in sources of help and barriers to care in deployed vs. postdeployment environments. The hypothesized barriers to care did not preclude receiving any help, however, less than one-half of soldiers at mental health risk received help. Thus, future research should identify factors that have the greatest influence on help seeking behavior in both deployed and Garrison settings.