Should We Create an "Information Operations Command"?
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to propose the creation of an Information Operations Command. The future success of Joint Vision 2010 is based on the ability of the United States to obtain Information Superiority. Forces with enhanced situational awareness, increased speed of command and control, and a thorough understanding of the information available will result in a higher degree of performance with fewer military personnel. The National Information Infrastructure (NII) and the Defense Information Infrastructure (DII) are essential for the future security of the United States, and systems and procedures must be developed for their protection. A single point of contact within the Department of Defense (DoD) is needed to lead the Department's efforts in this new arena. Chapter 1 is a fictional account of an operation in the future and how an Information Operations Command might play a critical role in its resolution. The intent of this scenario is to portray the significant impact that could be made by an Information Operations Command during a crisis. Of note here is the attempt to portray the responsiveness and rapidity with which crucial decisions could be made. While the overall capabilities represented do not currently exist in any coordinated fashion, bits and pieces are certainly possible today. The year is 2005. Chapter 2 addresses the requirement for Information Superiority. Chapter 3 examines ongoing initiatives within DoD by the Joint Staff and the Services to attain Information Superiority. Chapter 4 looks at current operational relationships for crisis response. Chapter 5 focuses on the role of the Information Operations Command. Chapter 6 examines options for designating a Commander-in-Chief for the Information Operations Command. Chapter 7 summarizes the paper. The appendix contains the following: "A Crisis Contingency Support -- UHF/SHIF Satellite and Direct Support Capabilities for a Joint Task Force."
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA525743
Entities
People
- Arlow A. Julian
Organizations
- Marine Corps War College