Chapter III. Technology Transition Army Science and Technology Master Plan (ASTMP 1997)
Chapter III. Technology Transition 2. Relationship to Operational Capabilities
It may be necessary for light forces to conduct military operations under a variety of conditions generated by a wide range of threats. We must, therefore, continue to leverage technology in the following key areas to ensure our capabilities exceed those of our current and potential threats:
- Integrate digitization
- Provide smaller, lighter, precision fire power
- Facilitate mobility and maneuver
- Maximize leadership and training
- Increase protection
A major Army initiative, designed and geared towards achieving U.S. Light Forces superiority is the Rapid Force Projection Initiative (RFPI) Advanced Concept Technology Demonstration (ACTD). This ACTD explores new tactics and technologies via a "System of Systems" approach providing a path to an air deployable, early entry light force that is significantly more capable of destroying a heavy armored threat beyond traditional direct fire weapons. The RFPI concept includes a variety of advanced sensors (air and ground, manned and unmanned), several precision guided, non-line-of-sight weapons, responsive command and control mechanisms, and automated targeting. Target handover will be facilitated by tactical digital data transfer systems now being developed as part of the U.S. Army Battle Command System (ABCS) program. Specifically, this ACTD will provide the opportunity to explore the integration of new technologies with modified tactics, technologies and procedures to improve the survivability of our early entry forces.
The Light Forces are key elements of the U.S. forward deployed, crisis response, and reinforcing forces. Light Forces provide versatility in two ways: they are rapidly deployable and they are most suited for fighting in close terrain. These characteristics enable light forces to be used in all of the Army's roles and missions. Some examples of these are:
- Initial forward deployment and the timely reinforcement of forces. This has deterrent value and sends a message of resolve in a crisis situation, yet is not perceived as escalatory.
- Contingency crisis situations, where a rapid and decisive deployment can forestall or limit hostilities. In an area where no infrastructure exists, a forced entry and subsequent rapid build-up of force may be required.
- Nation building/military operations other than war. Nations involved in low-intensity conflicts may require economic and social-political solutions. Light forces are ideally suited in the role of providing security and promoting the political and social development of nations. Their inherent characteristic of low equipment density does not create an impact on a developing country, yet it provides a widespread sense of security.
- Counter Terrorism can be used both domestically and internationally. It may require special non-traditional methods.
Table III-H-1 represents Close Combat Light Systems/System Upgrades/Advanced Concepts (S/SU/ACs) capabilities that provide either significant or some capability to Battlefield Dynamics. This table also provides highlights of capabilities provided by other Army modernization programs discussed in detail throughout this chapter.
Table III-H-1. Close Combat Light System Capabilities
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Table III-H-1. Close Combat Light System Capabilities (Continued)
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Table III-H-1. Close Combat Light System Capabilities (Continued)
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