Mission-Oriented Heterogeneous UAV Swarm Capability Configuration Optimization Method

With the development of artificial intelligence and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology, the application of UAV swarms in a variety of missions has become increasingly widespread. Focusing on how to fully leverage the potential of heterogeneous UAV swarms and achieve optimal resource allocation, an optimization method for the capability configuration of mission-oriented heterogeneous UAV swarms is proposed in this paper. The method is based on the “ENDSMEANS-WAYS” analysis framework, which comprehensively considers the mission requirements, system of system resources, and organizational strategies of the swarm. Capability requirements and alternative configuration elements for the UAV swarm are established, and an association matrix between capabilities and missions, as well as between payloads and capabilities, is constructed. Considering costeffectiveness, an optimization model targeting high capability, low cost, and high cost-effectiveness is established. The Particle Swarm Optimization algorithm is used to solve the model. Finally, The formulation process and results of the swarm configuration optimization plan are demonstrated using a fire rescue mission as an example. It shown that the proposed method provides scientific guidance for the configuration of UAV swarms under different mission requirements. It holds significant scientific and strategic value in promoting the development of UAV swarm systems. It enhances their execution efficiency and adaptability in complex mission environments.