Parameter identification for generalized Lanchester's equations

The validation of analytic combat models is hindered by the almost complete lack of a priori knowledge about the aggregated attrition coefficients serving as inputs in such models. To overcome this difficulty we discuss the applicability of two methods that use empirical data (combat outcomes) to identify the unknown attrition coefficients. Both methods are based on the minimization of an optimization criterion (equation error criterion or output error criterion). 14 refs., 12 tabs.