An integrated approach based on game theory and geographical information systems to solve decision problems

In this study, a military decision problem is handled by an integrated approach based on game theory and geographical information systems (GIS). The problem can be defined as: finding layout plan for troops who want to maximize probability of identifying enemies using particular routes to penetrate border line. The problem has been transformed to two-person zero-sum game by some assumptions and solved in four interconnected stages. First, suitable spots in the terrain for monitoring the enemies were identified. Then, visibility percentages of each of the spots were calculated by using GIS for the routes used by enemies to pass the border line. Next, by assuming the calculated visibility ratios as the probability of identifying the enemy, a two-person zero-sum payoffmatrix was formed. Finally, linear mathematical model established to obtain optimal strategies with their probabilities. There are many techniques in literature to solve military decision problems but we believe that this study, by holding the peculiarity of the first study in which game theory and GIS are used together, will make a significant contribution to literature and future studies. (C) 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.