Interoperability

DOD's Efforts To Achieve Interoperability Among C3 Systems Gao ID: NSIAD-87-124 April 27, 1987

GAO reported on command, control, and communications (C3) interoperability among the military services and Department of Defense (DOD) efforts to attain a greater degree of interoperability.

GAO found that, although DOD implemented initiatives to achieve interoperability, it did not achieve its objective because it: (1) failed to develop an overall C3 architecture; (2) took too long to revise its interoperability directive; and (3) had limited success in using common and compatible C3 equipment. GAO noted that the services: (1) experienced interoperability problems in Vietnam and Grenada and in joint exercises; and (2) still do not have compatible encryption equipment, antijam radios, and satellite terminals. GAO also found that interoperability problems result from the: (1) DOD decentralized management structure; (2) lack of clearly defined joint requirements; and (3) absence of an effective central enforcement authority to make the necessary interoperability decisions. GAO concluded that, although the Joint Tactical C3 Agency will need many years to complete the development of C3 architecture, it should help DOD achieve interoperability.

Recommendations

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