Diminishing the Critical Vulnerability of Space.
Abstract
Network-centric warfare (NCW) relies heavily on the exploitation of space and technology to create a more efficient, effective end responsive form of combat power than is presently available to United States forces. The backbone of NCW is the advanced communication and sensor systems that reside in space. These data paths produce a flow of information that promises a greater military reach, irrespective of force size, and supports an increasing trend toward power projection in an ERA of diminishing forward bases. Unfortunately, our propensity to levy an increasing number of systems upon the skeleton of space has increased its importance as a target to any potential future adversary. Furthermore, a shift to NCW would mark a potentially dangerous commitment to electronic connectivity in order to assure combat power. This increased risk results from the fragility of space assets because components of our space architecture are assailable with relatively low cost, low technology weapons and tactics. Therefore, if we recognize these assets as a critical vulnerability, bow do we reconcile a trend toward increasing our dependence on space? The solution requires an environment of innovation that strives to balance hardware, techniques and skills in such a way that realizes the advantages of network-centric warfare without compromising the combat power of individual platforms. Preserving the capability of platform-centric warfare reduces the vulnerability of space assets and safeguards our ability to mass effects regardless of connectivity.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 13, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA349256
Entities
People
- E. C. Helme Iii
Organizations
- Naval War College