Book Description

Currently the United States Army does not have a standardized, realistic methodology for determining the correlation of forces (COF). This study investigates this issue by examining different methods currently being used to determine the COF. The key to this study is the examination of how to measure combat power. The different methods to measure combat power range from a numerical count (bean count), to subjective and objective analysis of individual weapon systems and/or units. The critical base to any COF model is the values associated with the weapon systems or units. Four different COF models are examined using specific criteria. The models studied are the National Training Center Model, the Command and General Staff College (CGSC) Model, the Theater Analysis Model (TAM), and the Historical Evaluation and Research Organization Model (HERO). The criteria applied to each of these models are flexibility, simplicity, definable values, and the ability to provide at least a 90% solution. The conclusion of this study is that a standardized model is needed, that the model should be based on individual weapon system values (using Operational Lethality Index (OLI) factors), and that TRADOC, specifically Fort Leavenworth, should be the lead agency to establish this standardization.