Mapping the Future: Optimizing Joint Geospatial Engineering Support
Abstract
A detailed knowledge of the terrain is an essential element of victory at all levels of war from the tactical to the strategic, and for success across the entire spectrum of conflict. Terrain expertise and products are especially important at the operational level of war, as terrain will have a direct impact on the operational factors of space, time, and force. The operational commander must have a thorough and complete understanding of the geography within his area of operations in order to understand its effects on the operational factors, and the interactions between them. Unfortunately joint force geospatial doctrine, primarily addressed through Joint Publication 2-03: Joint Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Geospatial Information and Services Support to Joint Operations, is vague and has many shortcomings. In particular it does not adequately address shortfalls in database management and in the dissemination of terrain products. Additionally, there are several force structure problems within the services that contribute to the inefficiencies in geospatial information management. Finally, there is a tgd glaring need to integrate geospatial assets from all services across the joint force in order to better capitalize on available geospatial technology. This paper offers solutions to these problems, and suggests ways to maximize the potential of geospatial engineering and intelligence as a force multiplier for the Joint Commander.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 16, 2006
- Accession Number
- ADA463495
Entities
People
- Jon L. Christensen
Organizations
- Naval War College