Getting Tactical Communications for Land Forces Right

Abstract

Tactical ground combat formations need good tactical communications systems to be effective. New battlespace management technology occurs in the context of an increasingly contested electromagnetic spectrum, with serious implications for digital communications systems and networks architecture. Nick Reynolds argues that simplicity, resilience and repairability should be combined with better education about communications systems and networks and the electromagnetic spectrum, to ensure that these systems remain operational under adversarial conditions while still tactically assisting users. Furthermore, militaries should move away from aiming for assured communications and connectivity at all times, for even modernised systems will either be vulnerable to degradation and denial or will create a signature that may be exploited for enemy targeting and fires.◼