The Evolving Defense Communications System

Abstract

Command, control, and communications (C3) systems 'help lift the fog of war that adds uncertainty to any military operation.' (1:20) They multiply the effectiveness of weapon systems and are critical components of our nation's warfighting capability. One of these critical systems is the Defense Communications System (DCS) which evolved over the past 30 years. Several factors drove this evolution, including constrained budgets, the need to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the service provided, compatibility and interoperability, and technological advances. Based on lessons learned from Desert Shield/Desert Storm and the changing environment, force structure and strategy, it is time to advance the DCS to its next stage. The future DCS must be flexible enough to adapt to any situation anywhere in the world. Mobile, modular building block packages of communications equipment must be available to provide effective communications capability to deployed units immediately upon arrival. Total integration and interoperability among military, commercial and other government agencies' communication systems is a must if survivable, robust connectivity is going to be available when needed. Integration planning must begin now.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 01, 1992
Accession Number
ADA258335

Entities

People

  • Ann M. Testa
  • Walter I. Jones

Organizations

  • Air War College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Air Force Facilities
  • Command And Control
  • Communication Systems
  • Governments
  • Information Systems
  • Lessons Learned
  • Military Communications
  • Military Strategy
  • National Security
  • Political Systems
  • Satellite Communications
  • Security
  • Tactical Communications
  • United States
  • War Colleges
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Computer Networking
  • Military History / Militaries and War Studies
  • Software Engineering.

Technology Areas

  • Fully Networked C3
  • Fully Networked C3 - Command and Control