Network Centric Warfare and the Changing Role of the Signal Corps
Abstract
This research paper will explore the missions and construct for Army future force information and knowledge management organizations as part of a network centric information infrastructure. The Network Centric Information infrastructure will herald in a new paradigm for the Army Signal Corps-it no longer will be just a communications provider. Through the implementation of enhanced technologies and the adoption of a network centric approach we can obviate the need for communications installers and maintainers on the future battlefield. This requires a vision predicated on dramatically changing the Signal Corps as we know it. We must begin with the end in mind and recognize that technology and new doctrine will allow us to move to this new paradigm. We can field a future force with embedded communications capabilities thereby allowing the Signal Corps to move into the arena of joint information and knowledge management. This will require specialized training but not a unique force to implement. We can mold Military Intelligence (MI) Information Operations (IO) and automation officers into a cohesive team of knowledge management professionals that will be the core of the new Signal Corps. Professional Army communicators must embrace new missions and define a new paradigm or find themselves in forced obsolescence. This paper will propose a feasible course of action that will facilitate the development of a network centric information infrastructure in support of the future force. Furthermore the paper will present the benefits of transforming the core mission of the Signal Corps to one of knowledge management in keeping with the overall implementation of a network centric system in an era of joint interdependence.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 19, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA424057
Entities
People
- Mike Thorne
Organizations
- United States Army War College