Finding min-degree constrained spanning trees faster with a Branch-and-cut algorithm

In this paper, two formulations for the Min-degree Constrained Minimum Spanning Tree Problem, one based on undirected Subtour Elimination Constraints and the other on Directed Cutset inequalities, are discussed. The quality of the Linear Programming bounds provided by them is addressed and a Branch-and-cut algorithm based on the strongest is investigated. Our computational experiments indicate that the method compares favorably with other exact and heuristic approaches in the literature, in terms of solution quality and execution times. Several new optimality certificates and new best upper bounds are provided here.