monitoring

UNCLASSIFIED
DEFENSE SCIENCE BOARD | DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
resolution to the analysis. A system of decomposition layers is then constructed beneath the
scenario nodes. Those layers, with increasing levels of specificity, are:
1. Strategic Capability Areas – This layer centers on core elements of the mission space
associated with reducing risk.
2. Functional Objectives – Within each Strategic Capability Area, several functional
objectives are articulated to capture high‐level operational objectives that must be
achieved.
3. Tasks – Each functional objective is further decomposed into a set of tasks. The tasks
themselves are part of prospective solution architecture – i.e., tasks, just like objectives,
are not universally defined, but proposed as part of a solution option.
4. Assets – Each task is accomplished through the employment of assets. Assets can
include hardware, platforms, people, training, concepts of operations, and programs –
essentially any capability that can be specifically invested in.
Each node in the scenario framework proposed in Section 4.3 will have at least one unique
decomposition map associated with it in a fully formed analytical effort. There are only a
limited number of unique investible assets that may be incorporated in prospective solution
architectures, and many assets are likely applicable to several different functional objectives
and tasks. These observations imply that most assets will aggregate requirements from multiple
scenario nodes, strategic capability areas, functional objectives, and tasks. Assets must be
assessed against each set, and synergies may be identified and leveraged when designing
solution architectures. Optimistically, the same asset may have sufficient performance
and applicability across multiple tasks, functional objectives, strategic capability areas, and
scenario nodes.
4.4.2. Decomposition Map Example
The overall decomposition approach described in Section 4.4.1 may be best described through
the example illustrated in Figure 4‐3. The example decomposition map begins with a focus on
the scenario node “Non‐State Attempt to Move Weapon.” The scenario node is decomposed
into more specific scenario sub‐nodes; in this case the analyst is concerned with “In Country
Movement” of a nuclear weapon or asset.
DSB TASK FORCE REPORT Chapter 4: Address the Problem | 44
Nuclear Treaty Monitoring Verification Technologies
UNCLASSIFIED