Information Systems and the Heavy Force: Blessing or Curse?
Abstract
This monograph investigates the results of task force level maneuver exercises conducted with equipment projected for Force XXI fielding. Specifically, the monograph seeks to answer the question of whether digital equipment improves the ability of the heavy task force to generate combat power. The monograph first surveys the professional literature to determine the improvements which senior Army leaders expect will result from fielding digital equipment in heavy units. The author then develops an analytic construct which defines combat power as a combination of firepower, maneuver, force protection and leadership. The major emphasis of the monograph goes toward an empirical inquiry into firepower improvements brought by the presence of digital systems through a three stage inquiry. First, the author investigates vehicle kills by source to gain an understanding of the digital unit's ability integrate fires. The author then investigates the direct fire function through the use of a production model to determine the significance of various factors which influence the task force's ability to produce direct fire vehicle kills. Finally, the author investigates the effectiveness of indirect fires in the digital task force compared to conventional units. The author establishes evidence that indicates digital units have a superior ability to integrate fires among the combat arms. In addition, the author establishes that digital units are more productive direct fire killers.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 20, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA324420
Entities
People
- Mark D. Troutman
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College