An Optimization Model for Determining the Number of Military Cargo-plane

군용 수송기 소요 산정 최적화 모형

In contemporary global warfare, the significance and imperative of air transportation have been steadily growing. The Republic of Korea Air Force currently operates only light and medium-sized military cargo planes, but does not have a heavy one. The current air transportation capability is limited to meet various present and future air transport needs due to lack of performance such as payload, range, cruise speed and altitude. The problem of population cliffs and lack of airplane parking space must also be addressed. These problems can be solved through the introduction of heavy cargo planes. Until now, most studies on the need of heavy cargo plane and increasing air transport capability have focused on the necessity. Some of them suggested specific quantity and model but have not provided scientific evidence. In this study, the appropriate ratio of heavy cargo plane suitable for the Korea's national power was calculated using principal component analysis and cluster analysis. In addition, an optimization model was established to maximize air transport capability considering realistic constraints. Finally we analyze the results of optimization model and compare two alternatives for force structure.