ECONOMIC ASSESSMENT OF PRODUCT LINE ARCHITECTURE IN AIRSHIP DESIGN USING MODEL-BASED SYSTEMS ENGINEERING

Abstract

As anti-submarine warfare (ASW) operations become increasingly complex and expensive, new platforms are required to enhance detection, tracking, and engagement capabilities while maintaining cost efficiency. This proposal presents a modular and scalable ASW airship combat system, leveraging model-based product line engineering (MBPLE) to optimize design, integration, and sustainment. The proposed airship will incorporate sonar systems, sensor suites, and weapons payloads, utilizing product line engineering (PLE) principles to enable component reuse and mission-specific customization. To assess the feasibility and economic benefits of the ASW airship, a detailed reused model based on the Constructive Product Line Investment Model (COPLIMO) was applied to evaluate cost savings, development efficiency, and return on investment (ROI). This approach quantifies the financial impact of component reuse across multiple airship variants, demonstrating how the product line strategy reduces lifecycle costs. Sensitivity analysis was conducted to assess how modifications in relative cost of development for reuse (RCDR) impact ROI, ensuring that cost-effectiveness is maintained across varying operational requirements. This research offers a methodology and adapts COPLIMO aimed at the design of airship ASW systems, while also setting a new foundation for further exploration in ASW system product line engineering.Distribution Statement A. Approved for public release: Distribution is unlimited.Lieutenant, United States Nav