Automatic task assignment for mixed aircraft formations

This paper discusses the problem of assigning tasks to a variety of differently-configured aircraft - aircraft of different types and carrying very different weapon loads. A multi-objective optimization algorithm is proposed which takes into account all of the relevant properties of the aircraft and the available weapons. Specifically, it includes limitations due to the aircraft's speed, time on station and the number of weapons available. The algorithm also allows for the need to define different priorities for different targets and requirements for co-operative laser designation for certain targets. The paper also discusses the need for supplementary algorithms to validate the optimal solution proposed by the assignment algorithm.