The National Telecommunications Infrastructure: A 21st Century Organizational Paradox
Abstract
The telecommunications infrastructure of the United States is large, organizationally bureaucratic, and vulnerable. Yet, it is the means by which the U.S. facilitates its dominant forms of strategic power, specifically a thriving economy and an unparalleled military. It is literally the backbone of the Information Age. Is this critical infrastructure capable of meeting the demand being placed upon it? What organizations are responsible for it? What are the vulnerabilities? And do the answers to these questions have national security implications? This paper examines the national telecommunications infrastructure of the United States and argues that the size and bureaucratic nature of this infrastructure exposes the United States to vulnerabilities and inefficiencies that may impact national security. It evaluates efforts to establish an infrastructure capable of meeting the intent of Presidential Directives and legislation regarding a secure, robust, and interoperable national communications infrastructure. It looks specifically at Department of Defense organizations involved with this effort and examines recent shifts in oversight of the National Communications System (NCS) from the Department of Defense (DOD) to the newly established Office of Homeland Security.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 07, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA414949
Entities
People
- Mark D. Baines
Organizations
- United States Army War College