Command and Control (C2) In Future Warfare.

Abstract

Abstract : Will the implementation of the 'C4I for the Warrior concept justify the elimination of the operational commander from the military C2 process? No, technology enhancements that the 'C41 for the Warrior' concept is designed to provide do not justify the elimination of the operational level commander from the military C2 process structure. Although the 'C41 for the Warrior' technologies appear to effectively bridge the strategic and tactical levels of the military C2 process structure, the operational commander (in reality) performs vital operational level functions in the C2 process. Three C2 process structures are presented and used as a means of comparing how the implementation of new technologies may allow and/or require a change in the C2 process structure as we have known it. New technologies will likely enhance the operational commanders ability to perform the operational functions. However, the potential for strategic level overcentralization/micromanagement of the operational/tactical levels and a reliance on technology without due regard for the Information Warfare (IW) threat will pose significant challenges for the operational commander as the military C2 process structure evolves.