An Engineer Perspective of the JCF��AWE

Scott F. Donahue

The Joint Contingency Force-Advanced Warfighting Experiment (JCF-AWE) is the Army's latest experimentation process for the light forces, and the culmination of the experiment occurred at Fort Polk, Louisiana, from 1-20 September2000. During this time, the 1st Brigade Task Force, 10th Mountain Division (Light), Fort Drum, New York, was taking part in Rotation 00-10 at the Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC) at Fort Polk. The Army's 4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas, spearheaded the digitization process and created the environment for the subsequent transformation to the Interim Brigade Combat Team (IBCT). The tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTP), lessons learned, and equipment from the light experiment were forwarded to the LB CT, which is currently being fielded at Fort Lewis, Washington.

This article presents the engineer perspective of the JCF-AWE and focuses on the digitization of light engineer forces, specifically the concepts tested, the results, and the lessons learned from the 41st Engineer Battalion's support to the 10th Mountain Division during the experiment. The purpose of the article is threefold:

* To highlight the JCF-AWE training objectives and the employment of engineer-modernization initiatives.

* To provide a summary trend analysis for each of the engineer initiatives.

* To discuss the road ahead for "harvesting these insights" and continued experimentation and modernization of light engineer forces.

Background

The 10th Mountain Division deployed a division assault command post to the JCF-AWE to provide digital command and control (C2). The command post included the assistant division engineer cell and a section of topographic engineers from the 30th Engineer Battalion (Topographic), Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

The engineer elements in the 1st Brigade Task Force were a task-organized sapper company (A/4lst Engineer Battalion) composed of two light sapper platoons and a mechanized engineer platoon, 2/C/299th Engineer Battalion, Fort Hood; an assault-and-obstacle-platoon section consisting of eight small emplacement excavators (SEEs) and six deployable universal combat earthmovers (DEUCEs) from headquarters and headquarters company; a task-force engineer planning cell in the 3-17th Cavalry Squadron, 10th Mountain Division; a taskforce engineer planning cell in the command-post exercise battalion Task Force 1-32 Infantry, 10th Mountain Division; a T3 dozer section from the 326th Engineer Battalion, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Kentucky; and a section of topographic engineers from the 30th Engineer Battalion.

The 41st Engineer Battalion approached the experiment as a training event driven by the mission-essential task list that incorporated emerging technologies and TTP. The JCF-AWE was a tough, complex, and challenging exercise that enriched and engaged our philosophy to build on new and emerging technologies and war-fighting capabilities. The battalion's objectives were to--

* Become a more lethal, versatile, survivable, and sustainable light engineer force, capable of providing premier combat-engineer support to the combined-arms team.

* Conduct tough, realistic, and innovative training to standard, supplemented with experimental TTP.

* Develop bold and adaptive leaders for the joint experimental process.

Before the JCF-AWE, the 10th Mountain Division conducted new-equipment training, field-training exercises, command-post exercises, computer-training sessions, and contractor meetings/ refinements. Since many of the challenges and processes leading up to the deployment could not be predicted, leaders were required to be flexible and willing to take calculated risks in the experimentation process.

JCF-AWE Objectives

The overarching objectives of the JCF-AWE were to-

* Improve the effectiveness and efficiency of joint command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence (C4I) through digitization, enhanced communications, and joint interoperability of systems, processes, and procedures.

* Enhance the capability and conduct of JCF operations within urban and complex terrain.

* Enhance the capability, conduct, and planning of early-entry operations for the JCF.

The experiment attempted to use knowledge-based digital systems to increase the lethality, survivability, and tempo of operations to assist our Army in winning the nation's wars. The Army is continuously analyzing and rethinking how and why it operates and whether it is using current and future technologies to their greatest potential. The analog processes used 10 years ago (and still today) must be questioned as to their applicability and efficiency in the digital environment.

The JCF-AWE also developed tactical and experimental objectives that were nested within the overarching objectives.

Tactical Objectives

The tactical objectives, which supported four primary missions (entry operations, search and attack, deliberate defense, and military operations in urban terrain [MOUT]), were to--

* Execute tactical deployment and redeployment activities.

* Execute movement to contact/search and attack.

* Execute an attack on a built-up area.

* Perform combat-service support and sustainment.

* Provide force protection.

Experimental Objectives

The experimental objectives, which supported the initiatives in the division assault command post as well as the brigade C2 nodes, were to--

* Test core systems and initiatives under field conditions that replicate the JRTC rotation.

* Assess the impact of lessons learned on tactical-operations center operations and architecture.

* Test and refine the data collectors' plan.

* Test and refine the contractors' support plan.

* Gain initial feedback on the performance of core systems and initiatives.

* Provide after-action reviews that enhance future JCF-AWE collective training.

Engineer Initiatives

The 41st Engineer Battalion tested 11 engineer initiatives and a general C2 initiative--the Maneuver Control System (MCS)-Light computer system in the command posts and its connectivity with the Force XXI Battle Command Brigade and Below (FBCB2) platforms in the vehicles. The experimentation and evaluation strategy for each of the engineer initiatives was coordinated with subject-matter experts and contractors from numerous agencies. Each organization had strict guidelines and Battle Lab directives to ensure that the systems were tested and evaluated against three criteria: effectiveness, survivability, and suitability.

The initiatives were evaluated throughout the experiment according to their frequency of use. Initiatives like the M-Gator, skid steer, and high-mobility engineer excavator (HMEE) were evaluated daily, while some initiatives like the urban robot (URBOT), T3 dozer, and lightweight mobile obstacle breacher (LMOB) were evaluated only during the MOUT phase, which occurred during the last 2 days of the experiment. A summary trend analysis of each of the initiatives follows:

The M-Gator (Figure 1) provided the entire brigade combat team with a significant mobility asset that was used extensively in casualty evacuation during an attack in the MOUT phase of the rotation. It was a great combat multiplier that significantly enhanced our ability to move short distances over rough or swampy terrain. The following minor design improvements were recommended:

* Increase the vehicle's top speed (currently 17 miles per hour).

* Field with a tilt trailer for transport and support.

* Replace Fiberglass(R)/plastic with reinforced aluminum.

* Develop an adapter kit for litters.

Note: The U.S. Army Infantry School is working the Operational Requirements Document (ORD) for this vehicle, which will be known as the Lightweight Utility Mobility Enhancement System (LUMES).

The skid steer was also a success story. We augmented our formations with two competing models: the Melroe Bobcat(R) Model 763 (Figure 2), a rubber-tired vehicle with steel tracks that could be manually installed over the tires if necessary, and the Caterpillar(R) ASV Model MD-2810, which had full-time rubber tracks for propulsion. The system has seven attachments: a picket pounder, clamshell bucket, auger, backhoe, pavement breaker, closed bucket, and forklift. The skid steer allowed units to start priority-position construction before the SEEs and DEUCEs arrived. Recommendations to improve the skid steer's performance include the following:

* Remove the rear bucket.

* Field a track-over-tire system for best results.

* Field with a tilt trailer for easier transport and support.

* Increase ground clearance for the Bobcat model.

The mini-mine detector (MIMID) (Figure 3) was one of the best pieces of equipment tested during the JCF-AWE. The MIMID is based on the AN/PSS-12 handheld mine detector but is collapsible and more compact and has an improved package carrier. The MIMID is only an interim test system since the Maneuver Support Center's Directorate of Combat Developments has now decided to field the Handheld Standoff Mine-Detection System that detects nonmetallic and low-metal-content mines. The benefits identified for the MIMID are that it--

* Can be put into operation quickly.

* Is very effective in finding the center of mass of the object.

* Has a smaller search head, which saves time by decreasing the need to probe wide areas.

* Is easily transported and lightweight.

* Uses less of a battery's life than the AN/PSS-12.

The HMEE (Figure 4) is comparable to the SEE, but it digs faster because of its larger bucket and increased power. The HMEE was very reliable during the entire JCF-AWE. It always stayed mission-capable and was an integral part of the brigade's defensive effort. However, the HMEE's stature limited its mobility in restrictive terrain. Recommendations to improve the HMEE are to--

* Add rollover protection.

* Add HEMMT-type outriggers for stability.

The URBOT (Figure 5) is a good concept but needs refinement as an engineer initiative. It was very effective on its tether or within 100 meters. URBOT missions were limited to the MOUT reconnaissance phase and thus were relatively narrow in scope. It was also useful for finding trip wires. The following improvements will increase the URBOT's applicability for more missions:

* Increase its speed.

* Increase its durability.

* Mount a digitized photo capability and an infrared camera/ zoom on the chassis.

* Increase the battery life so that it can operate longer between chargings.

The T3 dozer (Figure 6), like the URBOT, is a concept that the engineer community should continue to refine and improve. During the MOUT phase of the JCF-AWE, the T3 showed potential for unmanned breaching and clearing operations in built-up terrain. The system is too slow (its top speed is about 10 mph), and the camera should be upgraded since the digital images sent back to the operator were of poor quality. There were also problems when operating the T3 at distances more than 20 meters away. It is billed to be capable of remote operation at 1,000 feet, but we had difficulty anytime line-of-sight was lost.

The Volcano (Light) (Figure 7) was another success story. It is extremely mobile and lethal, and the high-mobility, multipurpose wheeled vehicle (HMMWV) chassis reduces the system's signature while increasing its survivability. This scatterable-mine system uses the same canister as the regular Volcano but with only 20 canisters (half rack) instead of 40. Suggested modifications for the Volcano (Light) are to --

* Reinforce the HMMWV frame since it is hauling a heavy load of mines.

* Incorporate some type of rapid-reload capability into future versions.

The LMOB (Figure 8)is a work in progress. The concept is good, but the current technology needs refinement. The LMOB's design allows it to breach antipersonnel mines only, and it will not cut wire. These facts alone limit the applications for the LMOB in its current configuration. The breach lane width, advertised as 0.6 meters, is inadequate for a combat breach. Additionally, the breaching system weighs 55 pounds, and the mock trainer does nothing to simulate the breach. Therefore, it doesn't lend itself to dynamic training in the combined-arms breach.

The LMOB is currently fielded with a case, and we recommended a pouch or bag to facilitate dismounted transportation over long distances. The Maneuver Support Center decided not to continue investing in this initiative and will focus on the Antipersonnel Obstacle-Breaching System (APOBS) that will clear an adequate lane for light forces.

The Digital Topographic Support System-Light (DTSS-L) (Figure 9) is an example of the recent ability to move technology closer to the soldier. Current automation technology is mobile and deployed closer to tactical planners and decision makers. The DTSS-L can be deployed with brigade combat teams to provide dedicated and real-time topographic support. Some benefits of the system are that it allows the creation of improved map products for brigades and allows teams to stay on-site and engaged in current operations and planning. Additionally, the improved hardware and software in the DTSS-L is similar to the current garrison equipment and does not require new training.

Rapid hardcopy reproduction (RHR) and rapid terrain data generation (RTDG) (Figure 10) significantly improve the terrain team's ability to provide support in the field. These capabilities allow large numbers of high-quality products to be printed very rapidly. The brigade requested 100 copies of high-resolution overhead imagery of the town for future MOUT, and the terrain team was able to meet that requirement and send the maps out on the next logistical package. The recommendation for the RHR trailer was to reconfigure the printer layout to maximize the limited space available.

MCS-Light

The MCS-Light, a software program that allows engineers to effectively increase C2, is the baseline maneuver tool in the digital architecture for the 10th Mountain Division JCF-AWE. The system's unique features include the ability to post overlays and orders electronically, display real-time situational awareness of blue and near real-time of red unit icons, "chat" with other elements through the use of Microsoft(r) NetMeeting, and share common desktop folders and white boards. Information is shared with other MCS-Light users and-- to a more limited extent--FBCB2 computers typically mounted in vehicles.

The old adage "a picture is worth a thousand words" holds true and should be the future course for reporting and sharing information. The inefficient analog method of sending pages and lists of raw data and grids requires the receiver to replot the grids on his map. The method of maintaining overlays and maps can now be manipulated electronically via MCS-Light. The engineer obstacle overlay can now be created on a digital map and passed to a common database or sent to another computer for display. Enemy obstacles and the status of main supply routes can be displayed on a digital map and sent to all units. Electronically sending digital maps and overlays eliminates the need to physically transfer acetate products.

It is imperative that the engineer community adopt a system that incorporates both planning and operational tools into a complete software package. Essentially, we recommend incorporating planning tools into the MCS-Light platform. The planning program should be menu-oriented and assist the user through the military decision-making process. The menu orientation would prompt and assist the user in remembering many of the considerations for the planning mission. Recommendations include the following:

* Improve the digital link between the MCS-Light and the FBCB2. (Minefields displayed on the MCS-Light need to constantly update and reliably post on the FBCB2.) This is critical information with lifesaving implications. Soldiers died on the JRTC battlefield because they didn't have situational awareness of mines.

* Improve the fidelity of the engineer graphics and symbols in the MCS-Light software.

* Add engineer spreadsheet planning tools (for example, the user enters units and receives equipment numbers and unit capabilities in terms of mobility/countermobility/survivability/sustainment engineering planning factors).

* Add engineer-specific tools for developing mission analysis, courses of action, commander's critical information requirements, etc., to facilitate the military decision-making process.

Supplemental training on the system at the Engineer Officer Basic Course is also required. We must develop an engineer system now that can meet our current and projected requirements; only then will we have a base from which to build or shift to be compatible with the maneuver architecture.

Future Experimentation and Evaluation

The JCF-AWE engineer initiatives have the potential to significantly improve the engineer's ability to support decisive, full-spectrum operations. Product refinements and subsequent experimentation must be continued to ensure that we get the best equipment in the hands of our light engineer forces. With an established, powerful, and proven experimental process like the JCF--AWE, we--as a multiservice/multicomponent engineer community--must continue our cooperative efforts to shape our future modemization strategy. This will require a systems-analysis process with other battlefield functional areas. The field artillery, air defense, and intelligence communities broke ground with their digital C2 initiatives--the Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System, the Air and Missile Defense Workstations, and the All-Source Analysis System--and are continuously working on building compatibility with the maneuver architecture as they evolve. Only through this type of cooperative modemization strategy can we sustain o ur relevance as a lethal, versatile, survivable, and sustainable combat multiplier on the modem battlefield.

Lieutenant Colonel Donahue commands the 41st Engineer Battalion, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, New York. Previously, he served as chief of the Studies and Analysis Branch, Combined Forces Command, Seoul, Korea; and Engineer Brigade S3 and 11th Engineer Battalion S3, 3d Infantry Division (Mechanized), Fort Stewart, Georgia. A distinguished graduate of the Virginia Military Institute, LTC Donahue holds a master's in operations research from the Naval Postgraduate School and is a registered professional engineer in Virginia.

Major Griffith is the assistant division engineer, 41st Engineer Battalion, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, New York. Previous assignments include engineer advisor for the U.S. Military Training Mission in Saudi Arabia; operations officer with the Corps of Engineers, assistant division engineer, 6th Infantry Division (Light), Fort Wainwright, Alaska; and commander of the 47th Engineer Company, 6th Engineer Battalion, Fort Wainwright, Alaska. He is a distinguished graduate of the Washington State University Reserve Officer Training Corps program and holds a master in administration from the University of South Dakota.

Characteristics

Figure 1. M-Gator

* Is a 6x4, two-seat, small tactical/utility vehicle.

* Has a 1.87-cubic-foot hood equipment tray and 14.4-cubic-foot rear cargo box.

* Hauls or tows a 1,400-pound payload.

* Has an 18-horsepower engine. Figure 1. M-Gator

Characteristics

Figure 2. Skid Steer

* Drives pickets and posts, pounds nails and spikes, excavates positions and shelters.

* Has easily changed attachments for many tasks.

* Lifts palletized materials and creates/ reduces obstacles.

Characteristics

Figure 3. MIMID

* Is one-piece, manpackable, and lightweight.

* Is collapsible.

* Can be carried on load-bearing equipment or in trouser pocket.

Characteristics

Figure 4. HMEE

* Used for ditching, trenching, loading, and other related engineer missions.

* Is safe at up to 65 miles per hour on unimproved roads.

* Provides better cross-country mobility and digging capability than the SEE.

Characteristics

Figure 5. URBOT

* Is manpackable (weighs less than 40 pounds).

* Operates for more than 2 hours on one charging.

* Has a line-of-sight range of more than 100 meters.

Characteristics

Figure 6. T3 Dozer

* Clears obstacles without risk to soldiers.

* Is video teleoperated.

* Removes rubble and other large obstacles.

* Is CH-47 transportable.

Figure 7. Volcano-Light

Characteristics

* Is a derivative of the Volcano that has been adapted to the HMMWV.

* Has a single half rack with a capacity for 20 canisters (120 antitank mines or 300 antipersonnel mines).

* Can lay 277 by 35 meters of disrupt or fix minefield.

Figure 8. LMOB

Characteristics

* Creates an 80-meter-long by 0.6-meter-wide footpath.

* Detonates surface-laid and buried antipersonnel mines, pressure-plate mines, and trip wires.

* Is manpackable (weighs 55 pounds).

Figure 9. DTSS-L

Characteristics

* Provides a division terrain detachment with garrison-level capability while deployed.

* Has a HMMWV-mounted shelter.

Figure 10. RHR and RTDG

Characteristics

* Provides hardcopy, nonstandard map-production capability directly from digital cartographic, terrain, and operational information.

* Produces at least 5,000 full-color, water-resistant standard products per day.

* Makes tactical decision aids and high-resolution image maps.

* Makes large-scale image maps.

COPYRIGHT 2001 U.S. Army Maneuver Support Center
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