This is done by looking at what strategic effects are, how they can be achieved, and why they are so difficult to simulate. A basis for strategic effects is established in the classical military theories of Clausewitz. Then, using modern military theories of Warden and Boyd, several approaches to simulating strategic effects, with an emphasis on Complex Adaptive Systems techniques, are investigated. HITM output depicts a cascading deterioration in force effectiveness and eventual total collapse resulting from destruction of vital targets. This outcome is consistent with the expected results of strikes against centers of gravity defined in Air Force doctrine.
Loops are an effective way to simulate strategic effects at the operational level of war.