INNOVATIONS FOR EXTERNAL SUPPORT FOR MAINTENANCE OF NAVAL COMMAND AND CONTROL SYSTEMS

ABSTRACT On a world‐wide basis, the Navy is in the process of developing and installing shore‐based command and control (C2) systems at twenty‐three (23) operational sites, extending from the Western Mediterranean to the Far East. The C2 systems are being developed and deployed on a functional basis under three (3) major programs representing Ocean Surveillance, Antisubmarine Warfare, and a Command Information Display system which will be installed at major sites. Specifically, the programs are: 1) Antisubmarine Warfare Center Command and Control System, 2) Ocean Surveillance Information System, and 3) Fleet Command Support Center. Following development it is planned that these functional systems will be brought together under a single integrated system characterized as the Integrated Command System. The World‐Wide Military Command and Control System, under the auspices of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, will furnish large computer facilities at central sites which, with the proper communications links and interfaces, will provide access to large data bases. Shore‐based command and control systems are comprised primarily of computer hardware and software, communication networks, information display equipment, and various supporting links and interfaces. A composite of each of the larger sites will represent a wide variety of hardware procured from many different manufacturers, and software developed by Navy “in‐house” agencies, as well as contractors. Multiple sources of hardware and software, combined with a wide geographical disposition of C2 systems, imposes a requirement for centralized planning and control of support activities. This paper addresses the concept of total system support through the elements of Configuration Management, Data Management and Support encompassing hardware and software maintenance, plus the other aspects of Integrated Logistics Support (ILS). A methodology for accomplishment of total system support is the primary thrust of this presentation.