Developing a command and control system in war

The Army Central Forces (ARCENT) Command and Control Information System (AC2IS) that provided Army level staff officers with a secure means to pass electronic messages quickly and transfer data files long distances is discussed. AC2IS allowed users to generate memos, charts, and spreadsheets on a personal computer or workstation and then transmit them to a remote destination error-free. The system combined special computer networking equipment with existing automation and communications equipment to connect users. AC2IS users in Saudi Arabia regularly communicated with other users in Saudi Arabia, the United States, and Germany. The equipment and architecture of AC2IS, the secure channels provided by AC2IS, the initial fielding and subsequent expansion of the system are discussed.<
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