Enhancing Command and Control for Future Battlefields
How the Army is Adapting Networks and Technology for Modern Combat Readiness
In the latest episode of The Crucible: The JRTC Experience, Major General Patrick Ellis, Director of the Network Cross-Functional Team (NETCFT), and Mark Kitz, Program Executive Officer for Command, Control, and Communications Tactical (PEO C3T), discuss the evolving landscape of Command and Control (C2) networks in modern warfare. They emphasize the need for adaptable and modular network systems to support the Army’s operational needs.
Adapting Networks for the Battlefield
The Army is focused on making tactical networks more responsive, incorporating real-time feedback from Combat Training Centers (CTCs) like JRTC to enhance their performance in combat scenarios.
Importance of Flexibility in Command Posts
Ellis and Kitz highlight the need for flexible, modular communication tools that allow commanders to quickly receive and analyze critical battlefield data.
Training Centers as Testing Grounds:
CTCs, such as JRTC, provide realistic environments to test and refine networks, allowing soldiers to experience the fluid nature of combat while improving their operational readiness.
Leveraging Technology for C2 Evolution:
Emerging technologies, including AI and 5G, are crucial for developing the next generation of C2 systems, ensuring commanders have the right tools for decision-making in high-pressure situations.
Future Vision for C2 Systems
The Army is shifting towards a more dynamic, on-demand network model. This approach will allow units to quickly adapt and evolve their communication systems based on specific operational needs.
Conclusion:
As technology and warfare evolve, the Army’s approach to Command and Control must become more adaptable and responsive. By integrating real-time feedback, leveraging cutting-edge technologies, and focusing on flexible modular tools, the Army aims to build networks capable of supporting the complex demands of future battlefields.