The US Army's networked battlefield is taking shape. Spotty connections show the work ahead.
The US Army is testing its new Next Generation Command and Control (NGC2) system to modernize battlefield communications and decision-making. While the technology has improved unit coordination, recent exercises revealed significant challenges with connectivity and electronic warfare interference.
Why it matters
Successful implementation of networked battlefield technology is critical for the US military's ability to maintain a competitive edge in high-speed, modern warfare.
NGC2 was developed iteratively over a series of tests before Project Capstone Convergence at Fort Irwin, California. US Army photo by Sgt. Sar Paw The Army is testing a prototype version of its new command-and-control technology. Soldiers say it has sped up planning and helped dispersed units communicate. But drone issues and lost signals highlight challenges. The US Army is developing new warfighting software to change the way it fights a large-scale, high-speed, high-tech war. A major exercise recently held in the California desert showed both why the service is moving so quickly and what challenges will need to be overcome to have it work as planned in combat. Out at Fort Irwin in California, the service tested its Next Generation Command and Control , or NGC2, as part of its Project Capstone Convergence exercise.
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