Distributed Operations: Communications, Logistics, Education & Training
Abstract
In the Marine Corps' "distributed operations" (DO) concept, distributed squads and platoons control large areas by coordinated tactical actions, acquiring ISR (intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance) sensor data directly or from external sensors while calling on external firepower and reliable long-range resupply. With small units (vs. battalions) given tactical initiative, their leaders' situation-awareness burdens become major issues, also squads' radio connectivity and casualty care. DO battalions need more radios, as radio links now extend below company level up to 200 km range. DO units must move more equipment greater distances, worsening current soldier overloads. Their resupply and maintenance needs increase sharply over those of non-DO units, yet current air/surface resupply is inadequate for real-time precision delivery at longer range. These issues mandate a unified "DO Marine as system" S&T push by USMC, ONR and DARPA (e.g., robotic ground/air resupply, airborne radio relay, medical sensors, artificial blood), major ONR additions to USMC S&T funding, and maximal leveraging of DO-relevant Army and DARPA S&T.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 2006
- Accession Number
- ADA528786
Entities
People
- A. M. Andrews J. T. /tozzi
- C. B. Wallace
- E. R.v Kohn
- F. L. Fernandez
- J. C. Sommerer
- J. M. Feigley
- N. Polmar
- P. Fratarangelo
- V. J. Gawron
- W. A. Neal