Geospatial Intelligence School Enhances Iraqi Army Effectiveness
Abstract
In the summer of 2007, the Multinational Corps Iraq (MNC-I) Engineer Directorate (C-7) facilitated an initiative to develop a geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) school for the Iraqi Ground Forces Command. Although a mapping and survey branch previously existed in the former Iraqi Army, it had conducted little formal mapping, and its surveying and map production ceased altogether after the Iraqi Army was disbanded. The new school established by MNC-I C-7, known as the Iraqi Mapping and Survey School (IMSS), provided training to enhance Iraqi Army and Iraqi Ground Forces Command understanding of the operational environment using GEOINT. GEOINT consists of imagery, imagery intelligence, and geospatial information. It is the exploitation and analysis used to describe, assess, and visually depict physical features and geographically referenced activities on the earth. During mission planning, GEOINT products provide an understanding of complex route intersections, interchanges, bridges and buildings, which in turn improves situational awareness for commanders and allows staffs to develop courses of action and plans based on accurate data. GEOINT, merged with other intelligence sources, eliminates the need for repeated and unnecessary reconnaissance. This added capability for the Iraqi Ground Forces Command and Iraqi Army staffs resulted in a better-trained, informed force that was properly equipped to defeat insurgents in Iraq and improve stability, thereby setting conditions for sustainable security. This in turn helped coalition forces transfer more responsibilities to Iraqi security forces.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA612466
Entities
People
- Michele H. Miller
Organizations
- United States Army Engineer School