Modeling and simulation has long played a crucial role in the design and development of High Energy Laser (HEL) systems. Historically, two distinct types of optical performance models for HEL system models have been very important: wave optics models and scaling law models. Wave optics models are both more accurate and more robust, yielding reliable performance predictions even for systems incorporating new design innovations, and even when operating in stressing regimes. Scaling law models are less accurate but faster running models designed to approximate the results that would be obtained with a wave optics model. Using scaling law model it is possible to perform large trade studies and long duration simulation runs much more quickly and/or using less computer resources. We believe it may be possible to develop a new and better kind of fast-running model for HEL systems, one that offers all the same advantages of scaling law models, but with none of their disadvantages. Each such fast-running model, called a surrogate model, would be automatically generated directly from simulation results produced by a high fidelity wave optics model for the same HEL system using robust mathematical methods, implemented by software tool suites such as Dakota or Optizelle. Approved for Public Release 16-MDA-8620 (1 April 16)
