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Command and Control On The Move (C2OTM) applications
enable commanders to receive data-intensive information via
satellite-downlinked feeds, on the move. Utilizing new generation
satellite antennae, designed for mobile platforms,
 C2OTM
introduces tactical commanders with new capabilities to deploy their
command elements to the most critical points, without loosing
contact with their tactical operations center (TOC). Initial C2OTM
elements were already deployed in Iraq at the beginning of Operation
Iraqi Freedom, and more systems and variants are expected to be
fielded by 2005.
Mounted Battle Command On The Move (MBCOTM) is another new concept
enabling the commander to perform all command and control tasks
while on the move. Although Command Vehicles which can operate
independent of CPs are well established in many armies, until
recently these elements were not equipped with mobile data
communications and therefore, could not fully support modern C4I
services. These systems are currently designed as "commander
centric", rather than "post centric" systems, and enable the
presentation of situational awareness of maneuver, effects,
intelligence, mobility, counter-mobility and survivability, NBC and
air defense. Other tasks include monitoring and execution of fire
support plans, tasking and re-tasking organization etc.
 While the
commander is deployed with his forward elements, the main CP is
responsible to maintain the entire information system, with the
processing of tactical information, intelligence, effects, support
and logistical data, creation and analysis of detailed plans, issue
and dispatch warning orders, execute liaisons etc. MBCOTM are
currently designed for Humvee, Stryker and Bradley Fighting Vehicle
families, which are used as standardized platforms, contributing to
operational security for the commander. Earlier command vehicles
were designed on special purpose vehicles (C2V) designated M-4
(based on the MLRS chasis). Only 25 M4s were produced before the
program was terminated. In October 2002, these vehicles were fielded
with the Fifth Corps command, Third Infantry Division, First Cavalry
Division, Third Armored Cavalry Regiment and the First Armored
Division. Some of the C2Vs were deployed to Iraq and participated in
the combat operations there, demonstrating the importance of
delivering critical C4I information on the move.
Dismounted C2 Systems
Dedicated C2 equipment currently available, or under development is
also supporting infantry commanders on dismounted operations. These
systems are currently under development at DARPA, as technology
demonstrators. Designed for battalion, company commanders, and
below, these systems will interface with current brigade and higher
C2 systems, enabling efficient joint forces operations and
integration into the Future Combat Systems Unit of Action
operations. Systems considered for these applications include mobile
advanced hands-free human-computer interfaces, knowledge based
situational awareness analysis and displays, distributed, collective
battle planning, integral mission rehearsal and distance based
training, as well as briefing and post action debriefing aids.
Systems will utilize mobile computing and personal wireless
networking, and advanced power generation and conservation
techniques to optimizing dismounted portable operation. Various
elements of the Land Warrior and
JTRS programs will be integrated
into the system. Dismounted C2 applications are expected to be
integrated with Agile Commander systems, and Global-Mobile
networking, focusing on the mobile command post applications.
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