Communication interrupt effects on tactical decisions

A series of man-in-the-loop simulation experiments was conducted to investigate the impact of degraded communications on tactical decision making. These simulations were large-scale, event-driven battle simulations. Experienced naval officers were required to integrate and disseminate tactical information from different sources and control the engagement of enemy aircraft. Several performance measures were collected during each simulation run, including the officers' verbal descriptions of their evolving decision process. Findings indicated that periodic interruptions in data and tactical voice communications degrade battle effectiveness, largely as the result of delays in the decision to launch additional interceptor aircraft as needed. The delays were attributed to the commander's uncertainty about the tactical situation caused by interruption in the situation display.<>