METHODOLOGY FOR THE DISTRIBUTION OF SEARCH TOOLS IN THE AREA OF INTEREST FOR INFORMATION AND ANALYTICAL SUPPORT OF SEARCH \OPERATIONS AT SEA

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to develop a methodology for distributing search assets into search squares based on the calculation of the probability of finding the search object by a given search asset in the square with the highest probability of finding the object for information and analytical support of a decision maker. This goal is achieved by analysing the sources of information on possible approaches to the distribution of search means for a missing object to provide the decision-maker with appropriate information and analytical support and developing a methodology for allocating a limited resource of search means to possible locations of the object of interest. It is proved that the basis of modern methods of conducting search operations is the subjective judgement of the decision-maker, based on which the possible location of the object of search is assessed and the appropriate distribution of search means is carried out. It has been established that the deployment of available search means is influenced by the distribution of points of possible location of the search object within the area of interest. For the most efficient deployment of search assets, it is proposed to divide the area of interest into search areas; estimate the probability of finding the search object for each area; develop a plan that ensures the fulfilment of the objectives of the search operation; implement the search plan; based on the results of the previous stages, adjust the coordinate values of the points of possible location of the search object; use the adjusted values of the probability of finding the search object for further search. It is shown that the basis for obtaining all the necessary information to determine the area of interest can be obtained from the e-Navigation system. The proposed approach allows adjusting the plan of the search operation in the process of its execution. The implementation of this methodology provides decision-making support for the distribution of search assets in the intended search area, which reduces the risk of incorrectly determining the search priority. The most significant result is the development of a methodology for the distribution of search means for the required objects, which is distinguished by dividing the search area into appropriate squares with the calculation of the probability of finding the search object in the square with the highest probability of the object being located for information and analytical support of the decision maker. Further work is to expand the list of factors affecting the quality of the search task, formalise the relevant features that affect the search result and are not included in the above model; analyse the completeness and reliability of the input information to determine the advantage of the proposed solution options with the formation of a vector of "trust" in the solution options.