A Network-Centric Operations Case Study: US/UK Coalition Combat Operations During Operation Iraqi Freedom

Abstract

Abstract : The purpose of the Network-Centric Operations Case Study Series is to provide a coherent body of knowledge that both describes how networked organizations operate and identifies the critical factors for organizations to transform to enable network-centric operations. Network-Centric Operations are a central element of the Department of Defense's ongoing transformation and an emerging American way of war. Broadly speaking, network-centric operations are characterized by the ability of a networked organization to develop and exploit an information advantage to improve organizational performance. The concept of network-centric operations and the emerging network-enabled capabilities of U.S. and coalition forces were evident during Operations Iraqi Freedom. This case study, US/UK Coalition Combat Operations during Operation Iraqi Freedom, describes how Coalition Forces were able to exploit the power of network-enabled capabilities to improve their operational effectiveness. Specifically, this study examines how U.S. and U.K. ground forces employed and exploited Force XXI Battle Command Brigade and Below (FBCB2)/Blue Force Tracker (BFT) in concert with existing C4 capabilities to conduct major combat operations. While the study demonstrates that FBCB2/BFT made a significant contribution to combat effectiveness, it also highlights disparities that existed between coalition forces in their ability to exploit the technology. It also underscores that it is not enough to field a new technology; units also must have time to train and develop tactics, techniques, and procedures to realize the full benefits of network-enabled capabilities. The Office of Force Transformation conducted this case study in collaboration with the United Kingdom's Ministry of Defense.