Battlefield Automation: Army Land Warrior Program Acquisition Strategy May Be Too Ambitious.
Abstract
In November 1995, the General Accounting Office (GAO) reported to the Congress on the Army's efforts to automate a number of battlefield functions through creation of a vast network of computers, sensors, and communications systems that would provide a common, simultaneous picture of the battlefield from soldier to commander. More recently, GAO examined the Army's Land Warrior soldier system, estimated to cost in excess of $1.4 billion, and its role in the 'digital' battlefield. The objectives for this report were to: (1) determine the status of various technology and human factor problems associated with system development; (2) evaluate the acquisition strategy for the Land Warrior system; and (3) assess plans to integrate the system with the digital battlefield. The Army developed the Land Warrior program to improve the lethality, mobility, survivability, command and control, and sustainability of infantry soldiers on the battlefield through the integration of a variety of components and technologies. Under the Land Warrior program, the Army is developing a computer/radio, software, integrated headgear (including an imaging display), weapon subsystem, and protective clothing and equipment to be integrated on the individual soldier. When developed, this equipment is expected to allow soldiers to interface electronically with other battlefield systems. The Army also plans to include a number of additional technologies later that are intended to further enhance the soldier's battlefield performance.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA314334
Entities
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office