Modeling the positioning of support forces in future battles using data envelopment analysis and the principles of natural and managerial accessibility

Objective: In this paper, a mathematical modeling is presented to determine efficient locations for deployment of support forces using data envelopment analysis. Methodology: The proposed model has the possibility to first change the manageable inputs in order to improve the outputs according to the principle of managerial accessibility and also if it is not possible to reduce the unmanageable inputs according to the principle of natural accessibility, it keeps them at least at the existing level. Therefore, the most important innovation and contribution of the present research is the modeling of the positioning of the support forces to support the ground forces in future battles, which is created by using data envelopment analysis and the simultaneous use of natural and managerial accessibility principles. Findings: The intended model has been used to evaluate 25 potential locations that are ready to provide ground support services to help local forces in the disputed area so that the fire of war ends in favor of local forces. Finally, by providing a sensitivity analysis on the manageable input values, the maximum possible changes on the value of this type of input for each of the locations are specified. Originality: The results of this research are of great importance considering the conditions raised in making and the effectiveness of commanders' decisions in order to locate support forces in future battles.