Delivering Joint Information Superiority

Abstract

Joint tactical C4ISR architecture -- or the integration of command, control, communications, computers, intelligence surveillance, and reconnaissance assets -- has long been a focus of defense visionaries. They picture systems linking assets, enabling the Armed Forces to detect and strike targets with blinding speed. Such architecture has broader implications. It can enable Joint Vision 2010 and ultimately a revolution in military affairs. An advanced concept technology demonstration (ACTD) by U.S. Pacific Command (PACOM) represents progress in realizing such visionary concepts. The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology testified before Congress that, "We must achieve an interoperable and integrated, secure, and smart C4ISR infrastructure that encompasses both strategic and tactical needs. Enhanced situation awareness and information assurance are. . .the backbone of the revolution in military affairs." That potential was realized in part during the Persian Gulf War. U.S. forces could see targets faster with airborne warning and control and joint surveillance target attack systems. And they could hit them with greater precision. But operations are often far from perfect. The old problem remained: getting the right information to the right place at the right time. A fully integrated C4ISR architecture is the solution. It can bind the services together with defense, intelligence, and other governmental agencies. It will synchronize the unique strengths of organizations and enable the more seamless integration of service capabilities sought by JV 2010. This system of systems can link all sensors -- strategic, theater, and tactical -- within an enhanced command and control framework. Information will be fused with other friendly information and distributed as a common operational picture to users. Just as the computer and Internet have empowered individuals, shared information from an integrated C4ISR architecture may do the same for small units.7

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 01, 2000
Accession Number
ADA426733

Entities

People

  • Charles N. Cardinal

Organizations

  • National Defense University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Autonomy
  • C4I
  • Cyber
  • Space
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Airborne Warning And Control System
  • Aircrafts
  • Command And Control
  • Command And Control Systems
  • Control Systems
  • Fire Support
  • Human-Computer Interfaces
  • Information Assurance
  • Information Systems
  • Infrastructure
  • Local Area Networks
  • Nervous System
  • Networks
  • Radio Equipment
  • Task Forces
  • United States Pacific Command
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Cybersecurity.
  • Enterprise Information Systems Architecture and Joint Command Capability Interoperability Support.
  • Joint Military Operations and Doctrine.

Technology Areas

  • Fully Networked C3
  • Fully Networked C3 - Command and Control