Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited / This thesis presents a Markov model, which, given an indirect fire weapon system's parameters, yields measures of the weapon's effectiveness in providing fire support to a maneuver element. These parameters may be determined for a variety of different scenarios. Any indirect fire weapon system may be a candidate for evaluation. This model may be used in comparing alternative weapon systems for the role of direct support of a Marine Corps infantry battalion. The issue of light gun vs. heavy gun was the impetus for the study. The thesis also provides insight into the tactic of frequently moving an indirect fire weapon to avoid enemy detection, and possible subsequent attack. / http://archive.org/details/markovmodelforme00guzi / Captain, United States Marine Corps