Will Precision Airdrop Capability Provide the Joint Force Commander with the Rapid Response Required for Tomorrow's Humanitarian Relief Operations?
Abstract
Advances in airdrop accuracy and employment strategy using the new Joint Precision Airdrop System (JPADS) now gives the Joint Force Commander (JFC) new precision engagement options, and will be especially useful during tomorrow's humanitarian relief operations. Internally steered Global Positioning System (GPS) guided parachutes now allow for airdrops with greater accuracy. JPADS has numerous applications across the Range Of Military Operations (ROMO), however this paper will focus on time-critical applications during humanitarian relief operations. Precision direct delivery promises to slash in-transit time, minimize hub and spoke shuttle operations, reduce handling costs and save lives early in a relief operation before larger forces can arrive on scene. This paper will describe JPADS and look at key attributes of its speed, precision and economy of force. Next, it will review the 2004 Pacific Tsunami as a limited case study, focusing on the DOD's response and if JPADS was available then, how it could have helped the JFC respond more rapidly and conclude the operation sooner. Additionally, it will draw conclusions from the author's research and finally make recommendations for the JFC.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 06, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA476791
Entities
People
- Randy L. Witham
Organizations
- Naval War College