Web-Based Fire Support Information System

Abstract

A challenge facing division and lower staffs is the efficient and effective use of information-age technologies while performing the six basic functions of an operations center. The importance of performing these functions has not changed over time; however, rapid advances in the conduct of modern warfare require change in the methods and systems used. This paper discusses a problem the 1st Infantry Division Fire Support Element faced during train up for deployment to Operation Iraqi Freedom II, and the solution. The solution is the 1st Infantry Division Artillery Portal - a Web-based fire support information system. The Portal provides battlefield operating system staffs and units the ability to submit and access near real-time fire support information and perform dynamic analysis. The Artillery Portal is neither theoretical nor short-lived. The Web- based system has been used since February 2004. The 1st Infantry Division, 42nd Infantry Division, and 101st Airborne Fire Supporters used and still use the Artillery Portal on a daily basis. The 1st Infantry Division Artillery Portal received a 2004 Army Knowledge Award for Transformation Initiative in Battlefield Applications. The new mission to deploy the division in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom II and to conduct full spectrum operations required an upgrade of most command and control systems. The division did not possess the more sophisticated digital systems needed for operations in Iraq. From August to December 2003, the Road to War outlined gunnery, command post exercises (CPX), and digital systems fielding and training. Before deploying in February 2004, 1 ID successfully transformed from a legacy division to a division with digital systems. Fielding digital systems greatly enhanced the division's warfighting resources. Enhancements were most noticeable in increased situational awareness capabilities and the ability to perform C2. However, new challenges arose and some former challenges persisted.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 15, 2005
Accession Number
ADA444949

Entities

People

  • Garrett D. Heath

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • C4I
  • Human Systems
  • Materials and Manufacturing Processes
  • Sensors
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Army
  • Artillery
  • Battlefields
  • Command And Control
  • Commerce
  • Computer Programming
  • Computers
  • Electronic Mail
  • Fire Support
  • Html
  • Indirect Fire
  • Information Systems
  • Iraqi-War
  • Tactical Data Systems
  • Transient Response Analysis
  • Warfare
  • Web Applications

Readers

  • Enterprise Information Systems Architecture and Joint Command Capability Interoperability Support.
  • Military Training and Readiness Simulation
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

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