Network Centric Warfare and Joint Force 2020
Abstract
Admiral Arthur Cebrowski and his adherents developed Network Centric Warfare (NCW) in the late nineties. The concept, though ill-defined and nebulous at the time, gained popularity and seemed prophetic of a revolution in military affairs. However, several detractors, and an inability of industry to provide technology that fulfilled the nascent theory, caused the revolutionary spirit and excitement over NCW to dissipate over the past decade. In 2012, General Martin Dempsey, the current Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, published the Capstone Concept for Joint Operations: Joint Force 2020. Many of the operational requirements and capabilities the Joint Force 2020 describes assume and rely on concepts that are akin to NCW. Revitalizing concepts of NCW will be necessary to best manifest the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff's vision of the Joint Force 2020. The question is, if Joint Force 2020 is the future, then why is NCW not referenced in the Joint Force 2020? Though initially NCW s core concepts were seen as implausible, technology has evolved, and the application of technology in all domains suggests that technology will continue to evolve. Building on the evolution of technology, the Joint Force 2020 is advocating transformational concepts, such as a reinvigoration and codifying of mission command to increase both effectiveness and efficiency of forces. The coupling of technology with an indoctrination of mission command philosophy will make evident that the principles of NCW are the theoretical base for emerging doctrine that can define the Joint Force 2020.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 15, 2014
- Accession Number
- ADA609272
Entities
People
- Randall A. Linnemann
Organizations
- Naval War College