ABSTRACT
Despite the fact that the primary design criteria for U.S. warships are based on supporting a major conflict on the high seas, littoral (i.e., near land) scenarios are expected to represent a major portion of future Naval operations. Such situations are characterized by unique problems and system stresses. Such operations must be conducted in spite of: uncertain motivations of various forces in an area; complex rules of engagement; and the presence of friendly, neutral, and hostile shipping and aircraft. Moreover, the risk of damage to friendly and neutral ships and aircraft must be held very low, despite possible ongoing hostile activities. The confined and congested water and air space occupied by friends, adversaries, and neutrals can make identification profoundly difficult. Often, the decision maker has to make a high-risk decision based on ambiguous information in a volatile, uncertain environment under tight time constraints.
