This study assesses the adequacy of the Army Command and Control Systems with respect to the significant increases in mobility, lethality, and capabilities of advanced weapons systems. Command and control becomes increasingly important in synchronization, operational tempo, and increased situational awareness on the modern battlefield. These capabilities ensure commanders will be able to operate within the decision cycles of any potential adversary. The Army is wrestling with the problems of independent development of major weapons systems and the inability of those systems to communicate with each other. Command and control of these systems are of paramount importance to fighting forces because more frequently commanders will make decisions based on automated information databases. This study has shown that the influences of rapidly advancing technology and increasing need for information on the modern battlefield will place untenable demands on any automated command and control system. This analysis has shown that current technology offers limited opportunities for eliminating information overload, therefore a tactical command and control system can become bogged down during periods of peak loading.

ADA 284689 Approved for public release; Distribution is unlimited. The opinions and conclusions expressed herein are those of the student-authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College or any other governmental agency. (References to these studies should include the foregoing statement.)