The Command and Control of Communications in Joint and Combined Operations

This thesis analyzes joint doctrine for command and control of communications at the operational level of war. The Joint Task Force structure is used as the model for command and control relationships. The first part of the thesis assesses the current doctrine and discusses the principles of a joint communications system. Doctrinal communications networks to support a Joint Task Force are presented and the command and control of these networks analyzed. The second part of the thesis contains a case study examination of Operation Desert Storm communications. Issues and solutions in joint communications experienced during the operation are analyzed. The structure for the command and control of the networks is assessed and conclusions drawn. The paper concludes with a model for determining communications requirements for future operations based on the mission, theater and communications factors. A discussion of the functional areas for management of joint communications closes the thesis. Communications, Joint/Combined Operations.