| Abstract |
Army commanders on the battlefields in Iraq and Afghanistan lead their forces using a computer-enhanced communications network allowing them to stay connected with dispersed elements and maintain a high level of situation awareness (SA) of their subordinate's operations. However, does the Army have a sufficiently capable computer system for logistics. Is the Army ensuring the system selected provides value added to commanders. The Battle Command Sustainment Support System (BCS3) is the battle command system for logistics that helps commanders filter critical logistics information. A CASCOM assessment in 2005 ensured the BCS3 would be the replacement for the Combat Service Support Control System as the core element within the Army Battle Command System (ABCS). The BCS3 provides commanders the core competencies of a logistics common operating picture, logistics reporting, convoy operations, Reception, Staging, Onward Movement, and Integration, and commodity tracking. Although the BCS3 is a highly capable system, there are significant costs in procuring and fielding the system as well as in training. As good stewards of resources, Army leaders must assess if these costs are followed by an adequate return on investment. The initial assessment by CASCOM did not identify all the potential pitfalls of the system and there is evidence that the end users are not accepting and using the system as designed. A new assessment is required and a review of successful implementation of battle command systems may provide insight of how to move forward. The argument concludes with some recommendations for the BCS3 program through describing changes to Doctrine, Organization, Training, Management, Leadership and Education, Personnel, and Facilities (DOTMLPF). |
