Developing Command and Control

Overview

Command and Control (C2) is one of the seven joint functions that enable the conduct of joint, interagency, intergovernmental and multinational tasks across the range of military operations. Joint Publication 3-0 states that C2 “encompasses the exercise of authority and direction by a commander over assigned and attached forces to accomplish the mission.” For more than two decades the United States has been increasingly relied upon to command and control joint, interagency, intergovernmental and multinational forces during offensive, defensive and stability operations in locations around the world. Analysts have been involved in not only helping plan and support these operations but are responsible for identifying and providing solutions to C2 issues occurring anytime from planning to troops-in-contact situations.

The size, diversity and age of the processes, networks and systems comprising C2 represent a critical concern for national security, making it crucial for our National Security Analysts to have the skills and data necessary to understand, monitor and influence our C2 procedures, systems and systems-of-systems. Current and future operations will require the development and implementation of changes to C2 capabilities allowing forces to respond dynamically to asymmetric threats; operations in urban environments; collaboration with joint, interagency, intergovernmental and multinational entities; and planning, employing, organizing, directing, coordinating, controlling, and protecting military forces. In order to achieve the capabilities envisioned necessary to expand the ability of the military commander to plan operations, assess their progress and quickly effect changes that appropriately respond to developments on the battlefield analysts at every level will be vital in developing and evaluating the necessary and sufficient C2 solutions.