Military Operations. Recent Campaigns Benefited from Improved Communications and Technology, but Barriers to Continued Progress Remain
Abstract
Improvements in force networking and in the use of precision weapons are clearly primary reasons for the overwhelming combat power demonstrated in recent operations. However, the full extent to which operations have been speeded up or otherwise affected is unclear because DOD does not have detailed measures of these effects. The emerging concept of networked operations, referred to by DOD as network-centric operations, involves developing communications and other linkages among all elements of the force to create a shared awareness of operations. Technological enhancements to these network-centric systems include improved sensors and other intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance mechanisms for observing targets on the battlefield; more integrated command and control centers for analyzing targeting data and approving attacks; and improvements in precision weapons. The improved ability to share a broad view of the battlefield and communicate quickly with all elements of the force has compressed the time required for analysis and decision making in bombing operations, thus increasing lethality. However, DOD recognizes that the full extent to which operations have been speeded up or otherwise affected is unclear because of the absence of detailed measures of these effects. As a result, DOD's Office of Force Transformation is conducting a series of case studies of training exercises and combat operations in Afghanistan and Iraq to better understand the effects of networked operations. Advances in force networking have been enhanced by improvements in the use of precision guided weapons and associated technologies, providing military commanders with greatly increased flexibility and accuracy in bombing operations. For example, the introduction of laser-guided and Global created by poor weather and visibility and allowed bombing operations to be conducted from higher and safer altitudes.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA476420
Entities
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office