Distributed Networked Operations: The Foundations of Network Centric Warfare - Softcover

Cares, Jeffrey

 
9780595378005: Distributed Networked Operations: The Foundations of Network Centric Warfare

Synopsis

Distributed Networked Operations describes a refinement of what popularly has been called "network centric operations."Distributed networked operations envision combat conducted by large numbers of diverse, small units-rather than by small numbers of generally homogenous, large units. In theory and to a significant extent in practice in Afghanistan and Iraq, distributed networked operations involve a mixed bag of naval, ground and air units, none of which is individually as powerful as a fleet, air wing or armored division.Author Jeff Cares discusses distributed networked operations from the perspective of adaptive control theory and details implications for force structure, hardware employment, and networked competition. Jeff presents a formal model of Information Age combat and explores the civilian business applications of the theory.

"synopsis" may belong to another edition of this title.

Synopsis

This book is intended to describe with analytical rigor the concept of distributed networked operations, which is a refinement of what have popularly been called 'network centric operations." Distributed networked operations envision combat being conducted by large numbers of diverse and small units-rather than by small numbers of generally homogenous, large units. Examples of the latter are sea battles between blue water fleets and strategic bombing campaigns. In theory and to a significant extent in practice in Afghanistan and Iraq, distributed networked operations involve a mixed bag of naval, ground and air units, none of which is individually as powerful as a fleet, air wing or armored division. Operations of this sort do have advantages that more traditional approaches lack. For example, properly executed distributed networked operations are less dependent on the survival of individual units and thus should be harder for an adversary to disrupt. The key is how the activities of geographically dispersed and functionally diverse units are orchestrated, or controlled.

This is obviously a complex matter that requires a thorough understanding of the concepts upon which distributed networked operations are based.

About the Author

Jeff Cares is one of the top thought-leaders in Information Age innovation and has been featured in such Information Age bellwethers as Wired and Fast Company. He has published pioneering work in the application of New Science techniques to military problems and lectures internationally on the future of military forces.

"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.