One of the more interesting dynamics of change in concepts of operations in the years ahead will be the relationship between robotic systems and ground, air and sea operations. An excellent illustration of the thinking about operational scenarios within which ground robotic vehicles might be used in the years ahead…
[caption id="attachment_505" align="alignleft" width="186" caption="Delta II Launch. Photo credits: Boeing Co."][/caption] The more than 40 year history of US military space has entered a new phase. The US military space system was built as a unique overlay for the US intelligence community and the US military to provide for strategic…
[caption id="attachment_481" align="alignleft" width="214" caption="Aegis Missile Launch"][/caption] Missile defense is a global effort. It requires the global deployment of U.S. forces and the capability to connect those forces with those of its allies. Joint and coalition concepts of operations are being shaped to ensure decision makers with the options of…
9/17/09: The United States and its allies are in the midst of a significant financial downturn with serious consequences for defense acquisition. The “contingency operation” in Afghanistan and the “withdrawal” from Iraq both generate severe budgetary pressures and emphasize force acquisition priorities most appropriate to those operations. And the “withdrawal”…
9/17/09 A key argument for buying newer platforms compared to older ones is the savings built into a new platform over the operational and logistics costs of the older platform. In the commercial airplane business, both Boeing and Airbus design and build their newest platforms with significant enhancements in sustainability…
[caption id="attachment_1187" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="C-5M in Flight"][/caption] As the Obama Administration shapes the acquisition approach of the Department of Defense for the years to come, hard choices will be taken. And these choices will have significant impact both in implementing strategy and in shaping strategy for years to come. Among…
[caption id="attachment_1185" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="LCS"][/caption] Littoral operations for US and allied navies have largely focused on warfighting as the defining element. For a "blue water" fleet like the US Navy, the littorals are the areas passed through in shaping the battle on the air and land in confronting adversaries. The…
The U.S. Navy can position itself as a key element for the Obama Administration as it seeks new opportunities for global cooperation. The Administration has underscored their desire "to build partnership capacity" and to "enhance enduring relationships" among core allies. The USN has a unique global presence and works every…
