Modelling Human Performance in Maritime Interdiction Operations

Maritime Interdiction (MI) operations are an increasing important element of the littoral environment. This is demonstrated by the International anti-piracy operations around the Horn of Africa and the establishment of the NATO Maritime Interdiction Operational Training Centre (Crete, Greece). The type of MI operation described is the insertion of a ship boarding team, via high speed craft, from where the team are required to board the ship using a ‘caving’ ladder. Once aboard, the team undertakes a hightempo offensive operation where accurate target recognition and prosecution is essential for operational success. The maritime environment is arguably one of the harshest work environment in which humans must contend. In addition to either extremes of temperature, the repeated shock and vibration exposure of the high speed craft has been shown to result in high levels of post-transit fatigue which potentially reduces operational effectiveness during subsequent operational phases. On reaching the target ship, the climb up and onto the deck using a free-swinging ladder, whilst potentially carrying in excess of 50kg of equipment, is a physically arduous task particularly in poor environmental conditions. When the boarding team is on deck, the on-target phase of the operation can begin. This is a high-tempo task, made more difficult by the requirement for protective clothing and equipment, and carrying the heavy operational equipment load. This requires high levels of fitness and the ability to make accurate target identification decisions, and subsequently accurate shooting performance, whilst working at increased physical workrates. To model the human performance aspects of the MI operation the factors influencing the insertion and on-target phases need to be quantified, initially via formal Task Analysis, so as to assess the potential degradation to performance and operational effectiveness. The ability to model these inter-related human, environment and equipment factors provides the ability to develop effective solutions to reduce performance degradation and enhance operational effectiveness. This paper describes an example MI operation, the development of a methodology to assess performance degradation via an operationally specific test battery, the qualification of high speed craft motion and shock mitigation, the results of assessing post-transit fatigue and issues of objectively assessing target prosecution. It is proposed that continued development of the MI human performance model will help enhance operational effectiveness by providing a greater understanding of how the environmental stressors, engineering systems interact with human operators to influence performance. An integrated approach, based on a formal TA, will enhance MI operational effectiveness and readiness for both NATO and its Partners. Report Documentation Page Form Approved OMB No. 0704-0188 Public reporting burden for the collection of information is estimated to average 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to Washington Headquarters Services, Directorate for Information Operations and Reports, 1215 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 1204, Arlington VA 22202-4302. Respondents should be aware that notwithstanding any other provision of law, no person shall be subject to a penalty for failing to comply with a collection of information if it does not display a currently valid OMB control number. 1. REPORT DATE OCT 2010 2. REPORT TYPE N/A 3. DATES COVERED 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Modelling Human Performance in Maritime Interdiction Operations 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER