Near-Real-Time Intelligence on the Tactical Battlefield: The Requirement for a Combat Information System.
Abstract
Timely intelligence has always been a requirement for the effective use of air power. Air Force doctrine and the Army's AirLand Operations doctrine recognize the need for faster and more accurate intelligence to support the unprecedented pace of modern warfare. In the future, there may be a need for support operations throughout the spectrum of conflict against a foe, using a combination of equipment, doctrine, and tactics acquired throughout the world. The author's research has come at an opportune time, with the reorganization of the United States Air Force and the creation of the Air Force Intelligence Command as a focal point for intelligence support to air combat operations. Past service rivalries and independent development of systems have led to a hodgepodge of collection, analysis, and dissemination systems. The intelligence challenge for the future is to present the tremendous volume of information that is collected to the right person, in the right format, at the right time. The author provides outstanding insights into the historical causes of today's intelligence shortfalls and the technical and procedural problems that must be overcome. He also proposes a combat information system that encompasses operations and intelligence information. The greatest value of this study is the combination of current and nearterm programs into a synergistic system that does not require major new acquisitions in a time of fiscal downsizing. These initial steps will help ensure that intelligence systems and organizations in the future are not stovepiped, but enjoy greater joint service commonality, cooperation and compatibility than ever before.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA290065
Entities
People
- James P. Marshall
Organizations
- Air University