Effect of Modern C2 Assets on Risk Management of Joint Operational Warfare
Abstract
Technology has influenced the way Operational commanders approach Command and Control (C2) of fielded forces within a battlespace. Advances in technology particularly information related technologies offer military organizations unprecedented opportunities to significantly reduce the fog and friction additionally associated with conflict. This Clausewitzian reference to "fog" refers to the uncertainties of the battlespace and most directly translates into risk to success of an operation. How a commander might leverage the benefits of C2 technology to control risk can have a profound effect on how effectively the operation is executed. The warfare concept of Network Centric Warfare (NCW) emphasizes a leveraging of advances in Information Technology (IT) to herald in "a new era in warfare". But at the core of this new era, the human dimension should remain central since it largely distinguishes C2. Judicious use of ever-advancing C2 assets (technologically) will contribute to the effective use of the devastating power of modern military force in support of a Joint (Coalition) operation to the fullest extent. The human element is key to success and needs to be preserved at all levels. Strategic and Operational commanders must focus on setting the conditions for success at their level and trust their component commanders and subordinate commanders whose role it is to be in contact with the adversary to utilize their situational awareness and professional experience in the most effective manner.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 09, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA422731
Entities
People
- Carlos A. Sardiello
Organizations
- Naval War College