Complex Adaptive Information Networks for Defence: Networks for Self-Synchronization

Synchronization of the Force

A key aspect of the Network Centric value-chain consists of a force’s ability to Self-Synchronize, that is, the ability of a well-informed force to organize and synchronize complex warfare activities from the bottom up (Cebrowski & Garstka, 1998). This definition comprises two aspects;

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  Synchronization, as an output characteristic of the C2 processes that arrange and continually adapt the relationships of actions (including moving and tasking forces) in time and space in order to achieve the established objective(s). […] Synchronization takes place in the physical domain (Alberts, Garstka et. al., 2001).

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  Self, as being a result generated by the system itself without the need for guidance from outside (Atkinson & Moffat, 2005).

Synchronization has been a fundamental concept in warfare throughout history, of course, but achieving it is becoming more challenging due to increased complexity, growing heterogeneity, and a faster pace of events (Alberts, Garstka et. al., 2001). Thus, we consider the dynamic aspect of Self-Synchronization a key one in the context of modern operations. We also consider that its application is beyond the physical domain of the battlespace and covers the cognitive and social domains of awareness, shared awareness, decision making and task sharing. The experience of a number of case studies (NATO, 2006; NATO, 2010) indicates that it can only be sustained where there is high trust and the group involved is ‘hardened’ – i.e. it has most likely trained together and each member understands the group as well as the task. Typical examples might be special force units or teams of medical experts.

Aim of this Chapter

This Chapter focuses on understanding the nature of the information networks which can create and sustain Self-Synchronization of the force.

Our analysis takes place at a number of levels which for simplicity we call Levels 1, 2 and 3. At Level 1 we consider the basic node and link ‘topology’ of the information network. At Level 2 we consider the local interaction between ‘intelligent’ nodes, sharing the awareness required for decision making in the cognitive and social domains. At Level 3 we consider how these feed through into emergent effects in the physical domain.

Chapter Structure

As a result, the Chapter structure follows the classification of networks at these three levels. At Levels 1 and 2 we begin by discussing the standard networks (Random, Small World and Scale Free) and then go into more detail on the node and link structure (the ‘infostructure’) of information networks which are required to underpin the possible range of approaches to military Command and Control (C2).