The Energy Academic Group worked with interns on an ongoing Naval Research Program study. Interns included one Air Force cadet, three college students, and six high school students.

Summer Interns Advance Ship-to-Shore Fuel Studies

The Energy Academic Group brought on ten interns to assist in an ongoing Naval Research Program study on the challenges associated with ship-to-shore transfer of bulk fuels. These interns consisted of one Air Force cadet, three college students, and six high school students. They were divided into three teams to tackle different aspects of the problem.

The first team focused on issues related to fuel demand of a distributed expeditionary base model for Marines in the Pacific area of responsibility. Their work established estimates for bulk fuel demand at these bases and a system for estimating degradation of operational capabilities if those fuel needs are not fully met. Their biggest accomplishment was the creation of a simple excel tool that could be used to compare different bases’ resiliency towards disruptions in fuel supplies.

The second team created a wargame to explore how limited ability to transport fuel can hinder ground operations. This wargame is played on Android tablets and is adapted from an earlier EAG table-top excercise intended to improve understanding of logistical constraints when planning combat operations. The new Android-based wargame is designed with the flexibility to be used in both research modeling and educational roles with minor adjustments.

The last team created a computer model to help understand how different mechanisms of ship-to-shore bulk fuel transfer impact naval operations and logistics. Their program includes combat ships, logistics ships, and various shore bases with scheduled fuel demands. The model determines if the ships are able to meet the fuel demands for their missions while supporting the ground forces with different ship-to-shore transfer mechanisms.

Learn more
Email Brandon Naylor at bnaylor@nps.edu or call 831.656.1986