Rethinking Command & Control
Abstract
Established characteristics bounding the conduct of Command and Control going back to the days of Sun Tzu specifically describe the intended implementation of C2 operations. These can still be seen aboard a variety of warfighting assets and in training facilities both at home and deployed. Military posturing has changed with the advent of information systems and Moore's Law. This has naturally led to the need for "information superiority" which in turn highlights the necessity for new policies, processes, procedures, strategies and tactics. At issue is that the term "Command & Control" may need to be redefined, or that it is no longer applicable in this new age of agile organizations. The consequences of recent warfighting actions have led some to believe that the role of C2 is being eroded by the advent of huge databases and ubiquitous services. In short, traditional Command & Control works well in a military that is trained in a limited communications environment, experienced and semi-autonomous. Moving as we are, to a military that is becoming dependent upon automation will require it to replace training, experience, and autonomy with a more centralized control, and dependence upon automation. Otherwise, the authors suggest that "Command and Control" is a relic in today's modern warfare environment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 20, 2006
- Accession Number
- ADA461640
Entities
People
- Douglas E. Campbell
- Raymond J. Curts