Evaluating New Weapon Systems Technology: The Javelin versus the Dragon

To achieve its missions, the US Army needs to take advantage of improvements in weapons technology. To replace the medium antiarmor Dragon weapon system, the army is testing a new system called Javelin. We used simulation to explore Javelin's potential to enhance the effectiveness of the mechanized infantry. We developed scenarios employing the Janus(A) high-resolution combat model. These scenarios represent force-on-force trials of mechanized versus fully modernized armor heavy threats in deliberate defense and movement-to-contact missions. Our results indicate that the Javelin performs better than the Dragon in mechanized force. These findings and related study results led to the US Army's decision to replace the Dragon with the Javelin in its mechanized infantry units.