SIMULATION MODELS AND ARTIFICIAL NEURAL NETWORKS FOR VESSELS BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS

The proposed paper describes Artificial Neural Network (ANN) application developed for the Model of Advanced pLanner for Interoperable Computer Interactive Simulation (MALICIA) project. It deals with stochastic discrete event simulator customization as a tool for supporting decision-making process in Maritime Interdiction operations. The Italian Navy (i.e. MMI - Marina Militare Italiana) is expected to perform such activities. The authors have been requested to focus on behavior identification that could be generalized to support decision-making in multiple scenarios. The software, originally intended for addressing anti-piracy operations, has been converted to address other kinds of maritime interdictions (e.g. illegal immigration) and behavior analysis. This study confirmed the potential of ANN for Maritime Interdiction, especially when intended to face illegal immigration.