Emergent behaviour: Theory and experimentation using the MANA model

MANA (Map Aware Nonuniform Automata) is a cellular automata-based simulation model of conflict which has been developed by the New Zealand Defence Technology Agency. It is based on the foundation ideas of complexity and emergence (Lauren and Stephen [12]). It has been developed using as a start point the ISAAC model developed for the US Marine Corps by Illachinski [5]. ISAAC was developed in order to explicitly explore in an experimental fashion the relation between local unit interactions and the resultant emergent properties and behaviour of the overall force. In the MANA simulation model, a scenario is defined by the battlespace and the characteristics of the two sides (Blue and Red). Each of the two forces is composed of a number of units. These units have the ability to locally sense their environment, and then decide, on the basis of a number of simple algorithms (based on attraction or repulsion to/from neighbouring units of each side and their attraction to their final goal), how to move around the battlespace. Waypoints can also be defined which help to steer the flow of forces in broad general directions. Over several years we have been working with its main author, Dr. Michael Lauren, through The Technical Cooperation Program (TTCP) on a number of theoretical developments related to MANA. These developments allow an analytical approach to the