Organizing National Level Imagery and Mapping
Abstract
One category of battlespace information particularly relevant to operational commanders is the physical environment. Imagery, imagery intelligence, and geospatial information (mapping, charting, and geodesy) portray that environment and are thus important bands along the battlespace information spectrum. They enable commanders to place myriad battlespace data into a framework based on time and location. Fusing all data sources in this manner allows for the development of an awareness of the battlespace so that decisions can be made faster than an enemy can act -- the core concept of knowledge-based warfare. Accordingly, intelligence and information are the basis of dominant battlespace awareness. The National Imagery and Mapping Agency (NIMA) was established by Congress in 1996 to furnish imagery, imagery intelligence, and geospatial information in support of national security objectives. It is the combat support/intelligence community agency charged with merging imagery and mapping from separate intelligence and defense organizations. NIMA has broad authority over the U.S. imagery and geospatial information system (USIGS) and the production/dissemination of imagery, intelligence, and geospatial information that permit commanders on all levels to acquire access to common references and information. One challenge facing NIMA is to construct imagery and geospatial data bases with a global framework on which to build a common view of the battlespace. Within the information domain, NIMA is one step toward achieving the information superiority envisioned in Joint Vision 2010. This article examines the impact of NIMA on military operations with emphasis on the synergy of merging imagery and geospatial databases. (4 figures, 4 photographs)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA426730
Entities
People
- John Strebeck
Organizations
- National Defense University