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An optimization-based framework for modelling counter-terrorism strategies

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Abstract

This article introduces the subject of terrorism and counter-terrorism by means of a two-person bimatrix game that provides some insight into the behaviour of the two players. We then examine three important areas in counter-terrorism tasks: the detection of terrorist cells and how to render them inoperable, the fortification of assets in order to protect them from terrorist attacks and the optimal evacuation of people from an area affected by terrorism. Basic mathematical models are formulated and demonstrated. This article concludes with some thoughts on potential extensions of the models presented here.

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Acknowledgements

This research was in part supported by a grant from the Natural Sciences & Engineering Research Council of Canada under grant number 0009160. This support is gratefully acknowledged. The insightful comments of an anonymous referee are much appreciated. They helped streamline the exposition.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Faculty of Business Administration, University of New Brunswick, PO Box 4400, Fredericton, E3B 5A3, NB, Canada

    H A Eiselt

  2. Bryan School of Business and Economics, University of North Carolina, Greensboro, 27402-6170, NC, USA

    Joy Bhadury

  3. School of Business and Economics, North Carolina A&T State University, Greensboro, 27411, NC, USA

    Mark L Burkey

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  1. H A Eiselt
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  2. Joy Bhadury
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  3. Mark L Burkey
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Eiselt, H., Bhadury, J. & Burkey, M. An optimization-based framework for modelling counter-terrorism strategies. OR Insight 26, 7–31 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1057/ori.2011.24

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