Showing papers on "Concept of operations published in 2004"

Modeling and verification of an air traffic concept of operations

Abstract: A high level model of the concept of operations of NASA's Small Aircraft Transportation System for Higher Volume Operations (SATS-HVO) is presented. The model is a non-deterministic, asynchronous transition system. It provides a robust notion of safety that relies on the logic of the concept rather than on physical constraints such as aircraft performances. Several safety properties were established on this model. The modeling and verification effort resulted in the identification of 9 issues, including one major flaw, in the original concept. Ten recommendations were made to the SATS-HVO concept development working group. All the recommendations were accepted and incorporated into the current concept of operations. The model was written in PVS. The verification is performed using an explicit state exploration algorithm written and proven correct in PVS.

Strategic Traffic Flow Management Concept of Operations

Abstract: *† ‡ § With increases in weather-related delays, the Air Traffic Management (ATM) community is calling for enhanced functionality for integrating strategic weather information with Traffic Flow Management (TFM) decisions. This TFM Concept of Operations describes the language, process, and technologies required to increase the effectiveness of uncertain weather information when making strategic TFM decisions constrained by convective weather. TFM needs a mechanism to reason about probabilistic weather forecasts in a way that balances the safety and efficiency of traffic flows and ensures that uncertainty is logically taken into account. Building on the Collaborative Decision Making (CDM) paradigm, we enable the Collaborative Convective Forecast Product (CCFP) to capture multiple potential weather scenarios and provide a mechanism for air traffic managers and airline dispatchers to use probabilistic forecasts in their severe weather avoidance planning. A Probabilistic Decision Tree models the problem state space and maps to current weather avoidance practices, TFM decision points, and uncertain weather forecasts. Our concept also calls for new forecast products that include estimation of the uncertainty in weather predictions in a format that is relevant to the ATM decision making process. Finally, we need a decision support tool with algorithms to help make decisions using probabilistic forecast products.

Algorithms for airborne conflict detection, prevention, and resolution

Abstract: Airborne conflict management (ACM) is part of an air traffic safety and separation management concept wherein a degree of responsibility - sometimes total responsibility - for determining and executing maneuvers necessary to avoid conflicts with other traffic is assigned to the flight crew. The concept offers the promise of user-selected routing, improved safety, shorter flights, lowered flight costs, more efficient airspace utilization, and increased airspace capacity. The central and most crucial elements of ACM are the aircraft-based systems that provide pilots with the information needed to autonomously and safely maneuver within the airspace. The necessary information is awareness of a) existing conflicts, b) maneuvers that would create conflicts and c) maneuvers that can resolve conflicts. The ACM application is enabled by the automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast (ADS-B) reports of position, velocity, and other information. In Europe and in the U.S., government and private organizations have worked to advance the understanding, acceptance, and utilization of ACM technologies and practices. RTCA has published an ACM concept of operations document (RTCA Special Committee 186, 2003) and application description (RTCA Special Committee 186, 2000), Rockwell Collins has developed and tested the algorithms necessary to implement an ACM system. The three major components of the system are: conflict detection (CD) - algorithm that uses measures of a projected conflict's "severity", "stability", and "temporal proximity" in determining when to issue a CD alert; conflict prevention (CP) - mechanism that utilizes mathematical and numerical "conflict probes" to determine ground speeds, headings, altitudes, rates of climb, and bank angles that would conflict with the trajectories of other aircraft and conflict resolution (CR) - algorithms that use "repulsive force field"-like mechanisms to calculate conflict resolution guidance. This paper discusses each of these components, as developed and implemented by Rockwell Collins, in substantial detail.

Swarming Reconnaissance Using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in a Parallel Discrete Event Simulation

Abstract: : Current military affairs indicate that future military warfare requires safer, more accurate, and more fault-tolerant weapons systems. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) are one answer to this military requirement. Technology in the UAV arena is moving toward smaller and more capable systems and is becoming available at a fraction of the cost. Exploiting the advances in these miniaturized flying vehicles is the aim of this research. How are the UAVs employed for the future military? The concept of operations for a micro-UAV system is adopted from nature from the appearance of flocking birds, movement of a school of fish, and swarming bees among others. All of these natural phenomena have a common thread: a global action resulting from many small individual actions. This "emergent behavior" is the aggregate result of many simple interactions occurring within the flock, school, or swarm. In a similar manner, a more robust weapon system uses emergent behavior resulting in no "weakest link" because the system itself is made up of simple interactions by hundreds or thousands of homogeneous UAVs. The global system in this research is referred to as a swarm. Losing one or a few individual unmanned vehicles would not dramatically impact the "swarms" ability to complete the mission or cause harm to any human operator. Swarming reconnaissance is the emergent behavior of swarms to perform a reconnaissance operation. An in-depth look at the design of a reconnaissance swarming mission is studied. A taxonomy of passive reconnaissance applications is developed to address feasibility. Evaluation of algorithms for swarm movement, communication, sensor input/analysis, targeting, and network topology result in priorities of each model's desired features. After a thorough selection process of available implementations, a subset of those models are integrated and built upon resulting in a simulation that explores the innovations of swarming UAVs.

Evaluation and decision

Abstract: Author: V. V. BARVINENKO, V. R. LYAPIN ... Lt. Gen. V. V. BARVINENKO ... Doctor of Military Sciences, Merited Scientist of the Russian Federation ... Col. V. R. LYAPIN ... Candidate of Military Sciences ... Modern warfare is unprecedented in complexity, dynamism and scale, a circumstance making the appropriate methods for modeling armed confrontation processes an indispensable tool in justified operations (combat operations) plans and rational operations schedules. This prompted command and control elements of force groupings of the Armed Forces (AF) to adopt new generation modeling complexes. For example, modeling was crucial to U. S. and NATO successes in recent local wars, being part and parcel of efforts to devise effective assault methods for use by the air attack forces (AAF). ... Modern modeling complexes afford totally new opportunities for upgrading the methods whereby commanders and staffs take decisions on and plan operations (combat operations). We shall use as an example the multifunctional modeling complex (MMC), which was put through its paces at universities and during operational training in the RF Armed Forces and proven capable of being the material foundation of staffs making efficient use of the method for evaluating the situation by elements of an operation (battle) plan. ... The method for evaluating the situation by elements of an operation (battle) plan first appears under its name in a well-known book, The Fundamentals of Command and Control Theory, Colonel General P. K. Altukhov published close on 20 years ago. The method implies "a successive analysis of influences the concrete data characterizing the situation bring to bear on the definition and formulation of each element of the plan (concept of operation, field missions, organization of coordination, support, and C & C). For example, an estimate of the adversary reveals the importance of some or other force grouping and its assumed actions. Simultaneously the evaluators determine possible sequence and ways of routing the enemy force grouping, engagement method, and missions to be addressed by forces. After that the main elements of the plan are specified as an evaluation is made of the friendly forces, the terrain and other situational data. A comparison of the capabilities of the adversary and the friendly forces will result in identifying the main enemy targets to ... Pages. 43 ... be engaged, as well as the engagement sequence; it is also indicated where the main attack should be, what formation the friendly forces must assume, etc". 1 ... The book is excessively laconic on the method for evaluating the situation by elements of the plan, which, as we see it, is a disadvantage preventing complete comprehension and identification of procedures for its application in practice. Later publications failed to consider the method in greater detail. More than that, the book imposes severe restrictions on the method itself: "This method is based on analyzing the situation in accordance with a sequence accepted for the determination of the main points of the plan. It helps to cut the time consumed in plan-making under elementary conditions of the situation, since it requires specification of only separate elements of the plan or particular objectives of an operation (combat engagement). Its use is difficult, however, when the situation undergoes dramatic changes, or when it is necessary to accept a plan for an entire operation (combat engagement)". 2 ... These and other circumstances are the reason why military universities and commanders and staffs as a rule use the widely known and tested method for evaluating the situation by its elements (the adversary, the friendly forces, the physical and geographic conditions, etc.). Fig. 1 shows the sequence of steps in making an operation (combat operations, battle) plan in accordance with the traditional method, as pursued by the command and staff of a large strategic formation (combined unit). ... Fig. 1. Work Sequence Followed by the Command of a Strategic Formation (Combined Unit) as It Evaluates the Situation by Its Elements and Accepts a Plan of an Operation (Combat Operations) ... Pages. 44 ... Its main defect is in that the evaluation of the situation by its elements gives rise to a contradiction between the existence of a reciprocal influence of the elements of the situation and the weak possibility of taking it into account, given the particular nature of situational analysis and proposals for the use of combat arms and special forces. For example, real actions by the adversary will in large measure depend on the action method chosen by the friendly troops (forces). Chiefs of MF & A, aviation, and air defense evaluate their troops (forces) and draw up proposals on their employment without the knowledge of details of proposed actions by troops (forces) working in coordination; neither can they always take into account reciprocal impeding impacts and restrictions on actions by groupings of troops (forces) that are being created.

A concept of operations for contingency medical care on the International Space Station.

Abstract: The U.S.-based health care system of the International Space Station (ISS) provides the resources to care for an in-flight medical contingency. The current system was designed for use in conjunction with a return vehicle possessing medical capabilities that would allow rapid and safe transport of an ill or injured crew member to a terrestrial medical facility. Because plans for such a vehicle have been indefinitely delayed, a mismatch has been created between the limited onboard medical capabilities and the current mission profile. This has driven the medical concept of operations to one in which as many medical conditions as possible must be treated on orbit, with return to Earth delayed or avoided. This article describes this proposed new plan, the implementation of which will require numerous changes to the medical system, including modifications to training practices, treatment guidelines, diagnostic and therapeutic resources, and informatics.

Unmanned Ground Vehicles for Integrated Force Protection

Abstract: The combination of Command and Control (C2) systems with Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs) provides Integrated Force Protection from the Robotic Operation Command Center. Autonomous UGVs are directed as Force Projection units. UGV payloads and fixed sensors provide situational awareness while unattended munitions provide a less-than-lethal response capability. Remote resources serve as automated interfaces to legacy physical devices such as manned response vehicles, barrier gates, fence openings, garage doors, and remote power on/off capability for unmanned systems. The Robotic Operations Command Center executes the Multiple Resource Host Architecture (MRHA) to simultaneously control heterogeneous unmanned systems. The MRHA graphically displays video, map, and status for each resource using wireless digital communications for integrated data, video, and audio. Events are prioritized and the user is prompted with audio alerts and text instructions for alarms and warnings. A control hierarchy of missions and duty rosters support autonomous operations. This paper provides an overview of the key technology enablers for Integrated Force Protection with details on a force-on-force scenario to test and demonstrate concept of operations using Unmanned Ground Vehicles. Special attention is given to development and applications for the Remote Detection Challenge and Response (REDCAR) initiative for Integrated Base Defense.

User-Centered Evaluation of Multi-National Communication and Collaborative Technologies in a Network-Centric Air Battle Management Environment

Abstract: Future command and control (C2) and air battle management (ABM) operations will undoubtedly be affected by the shift toward network-centric warfare (NCW), a concept of operations that relies upon a sophisticated information technology infrastructure comprising sensor, information, and engagement grids. It will be achieved through heightened shared situation awareness and real-time collaboration, which will require effective communication between coalition forces throughout the command chain. The present study provides an initial evaluation of communication effectiveness of persons from English-speaking countries with different dialects. In addition, an evaluation of collaborative interface technology for future ABM operations is presented. Together, these data provide an initial step in the characterization of communication challenges in future coalition operations and an assessment of the technologies that may be required to effectively share information and situation awareness in future ABM operations.

GPS III system operations concepts

Abstract: Over the past 3 years, the Lockheed Martin GPS III team has analyzed potential operational concepts for the Air Force. The completed tasks support the government's objective of a "realizable and operationally feasible" U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) and Air Force Space Command (AFSPC) concept of operations. This paper provides an overview of the operational improvements for command and control of satellites and the provision of safe, precise navigation and timing services to end-users. The GPS III system changes existing operational paradigms. Improved operator capabilities are enabled by a new high-speed uplink/downlink and crosslink communication architecture. Continuous connectivity allows operators a "contact one satellite - contact all satellites" concept enabling near-real time navigation updates and telemetry monitoring. This paper describes potential improvements for the following operations: Constellation Monitoring, Command and Control, Navigation Upload Monitoring, Global Service Monitoring, Global Service Prediction, Civilian Navigation (CNAV) Messaging, and Anomaly Detection and Resolution. This paper also describes future operational improvements as GPS applications continue to proliferate and the need for an improved infrastructure to effectively manage all the systems that affect GPS service grows.

Development & flight testing of an intelligent, autonomous uav capability

Abstract: UAV/UCAV technology is at a key stage of its development with the introduction of truly autonomous operations. The DARPA/Air Force/Navy J-UCAS program is a joint effort to demonstrate the technical feasibility, military utility and operational value for a networked system of high performance, weaponized unmanned air vehicles. The first demonstration of this program promises truly autonomous operations, coordinated multi-vehicle operations and dynamic tasking. The DARPA/Army UCAR program will demonstrate the enabling technologies and system capabilities required to perform the mobile strike concept of operations within the Army’s Objective Force system-ofsystems environment. Specific objectives include autonomous multi-ship cooperation and collaboration, and autonomous low-altitude flight.

Near-to-eye display concepts for air traffic controllers

Abstract: Tower controllers are responsible for maintaining safe separation between airborne aircraft in the airport traffic control area, and separation between aircraft, equipment, and personnel on the airport surface. The objective of this project was to develop and demonstrate an out-the-window, augmented viewing system concept for Air Force air traffic control tower personnel to reduce look-down time within the tower and to optimize visual airfield operations, particularly during limited visibility conditions. We characterized controller tasks where a near-to-eye display greatly aids performance and identified form factor variables that influence user acceptability of hardware configurations. We developed an "out-the-window concept of operation" and analyzed the hardware requirements and feasibility of three near-to-eye viewing systems: two head-mounted monocular displays (HMMD) and a held-to-head binocular display (HHBD). When fully developed, these display prototypes should enhance tower controller situation awareness, and reduce such distractions as having to frequently attend to and respond to head-down (console) display information. There are potential users of this display concept in all branches of the military services, and in the commercial sector. There is also potential utility for surface surveillance operations in support of homeland security, law enforcement personnel, rescue workers, firefighters, and special operations forces in non-aviation applications.

Effects of Future Traffic on the National Airspace System

Abstract: This paper presents a sensitivity analysis that was performed to evaluate key aspects of the Radio Technical Commission for Aeronautics Incorporated (RTCA, Inc) Concept of Operations (CONOPS). The analysis first assesses the changes required in the Enroute domain to meet the traffic demand predicted for 2022. The analysis then focuses on the terminal do main and assesses the impact of airport enhancements. It is shown that, although the future traffic demand doubles today’s traffic, a simple homogenous doubling of NAS sector and airport capacities is not required, nor does it provide optimal benefit.

The USAF Capabilities Based CONOPS Construct

Abstract: : The Air Force has laid the foundation for the next step in its transformation to a capabilities focused Air and Space Expeditionary Force (ASEF). The ASEF employs its warfighting capabilities to create battlespace effects desired by the Combatant Commander. These capabilities are the driver behind everything the Air Force does. The centerpiece of this effort is the development of new CONOPS that will guide its planning programming requirements reform and acquisition. The Air Force has identified six CONOPS to describe how it will go to war and conduct operations in support of Combatant Commanders. The methodology used to do this is the Integrated Capabilities Risk Review Assessment. This paper will discuss the adequacy of the CONOPS to identify and assess Air Force capabilities used in capabilities-based planning.

Adaptation of Terrestrial Mountaineering Equipment and Training Methods for Planetary EVA Operations

Abstract: An eventual return to colonize the Moon or the launch of a human exploration mission to Mars will drive the need for developing novel surface Extravehicular Activity (EVA) technologies as well as require new operational and planning techniques. These advances are necessary to enable safe EVA access to the planetary surface locales that are most likely to yield exciting scientific knowledge, such as in the sedimentary deposit regions recently found on Mars or within and around large craters formed from asteroid collisions; as these represent the areas thought most likely to contain fossilized evidence of life or geological information pertaining to the origins and age of the planets. These sites, while rich in potential for scientific discovery, also introduce challenging terrain for exploration by surface EVA teams. In order to gain access to these areas, EVA systems will be needed to assist astronauts in negotiation of high-angle slopes and vertical terrain in a safe and efficient manner. In addition, unique evacuation methods need to be considered for rescue operations should an accident occur during an excursion. Mountaineering and mountain rescue techniques established for use on Earth can serve as a basis for developing equipment appropriately modified for these novel (Lunar or Martian) terrains, as well as be useful for establishing effective simulation and training techniques. Systems integration and risk management methodologies also need to be incorporated for developing a concept of operations that will minimize risk during the EVA. This paper outlines a set of guidelines and provides suggestions for establishing hardware and training requirements for nominal and contingency planetary surface EVA operations, including necessary adaptations uniquely related to space suit capabilities and constraints.

A Concept of Operations for a Global ISR Campaign

Abstract: : The new threat to national security is characterized as transnational, adaptable, asymmetric, and persistent. The U.S. military most likely will be tasked to conduct significant operations in fundamentally weak states and will place a greater emphasis on Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) to enable combat or strike functions. Future operations will depend on globally coordinated and executed ISR operations vice regionally focused ISR operations and despite many early successes, challenges remain. The Department of Defense transformation to meet 21st Century security challenges requires a change in how ISR operations are planned and executed. A continuous, global, joint ISR campaign is necessary that will require Commander, United States Strategic Command to act as a supported commander by defining the objective of an ISR campaign and then planning and conducting that campaign. This paper will provide the background and argument for a change in ISR planning and who should do it. It will also provide one suggested method for how to go about designing and executing an ISR campaign.

Examining concept of operations in future plants.

Abstract: This paper will examine the results of this research that focus on future concepts of operations. Our approach was to look at current technological developments in the areas of reactor technology, I&C technology, and human-system integration technology and to make projections into the near and longer-term future concerning their potential impact on human performance. The results were discussed in terms of three aspects of concepts of operations: functional staffing models, plant automation, and training and qualifications. Significant changes to each are anticipated and discussed. Research will be needed to address these changes in order to provide for confidence that changes to concepts of operations are accomplished in ways that maintain public safety.

Data and metadata requirements for composable mission space environments

Abstract: Composability is the capability to select and assemble reusable simulation components in various combinations into simulation systems to meet user requirements. The Defense Modeling and Simulation Office's Composable Mission Space Environments program, seeks to develop concepts, technologies, and processes to enable the rapid, efficient, and flexible assembly of simulation systems from components. A workshop was held to examine the current state of composability, refine its definitions and intentions, identify capabilities and technologies needed to support practical composability, and propose research objectives and programmatic initiatives to move towards the goals of the Composable Mission Space Environments (CMSE) program. Approximately 35 experts from government, industry, and academia participated in four working groups (WGs). This paper reports the findings and recommendations of the data and metadata WG. The WG identified the crucial functions served by metadata descriptions of components in composable development, specified attributes of the components to be represented in the metadata, and sketched a high level concept of operations describing the roles and relationships of metadata stakeholders. This paper also reports the recommendations of all of the WGs for future actions in support of composability.

Wargaming and Simulation as Tools for CONOPS Development

Abstract: : The purpose of this thesis is to use wargaming and simulation to gain insight into the effective employment of a new Command Control Communications Computers Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) system the Adaptive Joint C4ISR Node (AJCN). The AJCN provides the supported commander with several capabilities to include: range extension waveform bridging signal intelligence electronic warfare and information operations. Two methods are used to gain insight to the support generation of the concept of operations for the AJCN's employment. The first method is wargaming. The wargaming method utilized a class of NPS students and the JCATS combat simulation model. The wargaming generated insights concerning the AJCN's employment. The second method is the use of a constructive simulation model POA 2. Insights gained from the two methods include: the need for commanders to differentiate the AJCN and its supporting platform; the need for effective information processing techniques; the importance of maintaining at least two-tiers of AJCN coverage to enhance situational awareness of the supported units.

Underwater marine domain awareness for first responders: a low cost approach

Abstract: This paper describes research and field trials targeting underwater threats to homeland security and maritime infrastructure. The investigation emphasizes harbor/port facilities without the benefit of a large supporting military infrastructure and offers an affordable approach to this complex challenge. An analysis of the scope of maritime threats that highlights the threat of submerged improvised explosive devices (IEDs) deployed as sea mines was conducted. A new concept of operations for the detection and identification of such submerged IEDs is offered. The concept relies upon commercially available and relatively low-cost equipment along with currently deployed first responders in the maritime sectors. As such, it provides a logical potential solution to the current dilemma faced by the majority of accountable first responder organizations of needing expensive - and likely unaffordable nderwater surveillance equipment in U.S. port and harbor facilities. The threat assessment and employment concept are a focus of this presentation. Field trials conducted during August 2004 are also discussed

Composting Solid Waste in Overseas Contingency Operations

Abstract: : A technology trial is being conducted at Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo during the fall of 2004 that may offer new possibilities for solid waste management at overseas military locations, most particularly contingency operations (CONOPS). Alternative solid waste management methods will be compared for cost, operational impact and overall performance. US Army, Europe led by the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, Engineer has teamed with their base support contractor, Kellogg Brown and Root Inc. and a European firm, Comp-Any GmbH, to conduct a technology trial in Kosovo that will track the performance of open window composting compared to Gore-Tex membrane covered aerated static heap, currently in existence are trash burning and burial operations. Representatives of the three participating parties intend to present the findings of this trial at the Army Science Conference in December 2004.

The augmented flight deck model (AFDM)

Abstract: As we move towards the next generation of air traffic management (ATM) system, we anticipate a shift in the control paradigm from a ground-based, reactive air traffic control scenario to a collaborative system based on predictive management of traffic. Such a system is clearly identified in the NAS CONOPS as a concept in which all participants have a collaborative role in managing the NAS with the objective of reducing congestion and delay with ever increased levels of safety and security. To include the flight-deck in the decision making process a number of information sharing mechanisms are being introduced, for example automatic dependant surveillance (ADS) and traffic information service (TIS). Using the information available from these systems, the pilot is supported in the cooperative decision making process by a suite of on-board collaborative decision making (CDM) tools. To evaluate the benefits and impacts of enhanced situational awareness and the introduction of intelligent agents on the flight deck, the augmented flight deck model (AFDM) has been created. This work discusses the concept of the intelligent flight deck, and describes the AFDM simulation model and how it operates within a common ATM information framework to support validation studies for the future air traffic environment.

Strategy for inter-model connectivity (SIM-C)

Abstract: The NAS concept of operations (CONOPS) identifies a concept in which all participants have a collaborative role in managing the NAS, reducing congestion and delay and making flying safer and more secure. The concept also states that the shared and instant delivery of information improves the common situational awareness in anticipation of any changes in NAS capacity and traffic conditions. This concept is known as the system wide information management (SWIM). This paper introduces the strategy for inter-model connectivity (SIM-C), which has been developed based on SWIM concepts. SIM-C provides an architectural framework to support information management and collaborative-networked communication. In this framework, intelligent agents dynamically request and receive information as needed to perform coordination, cooperation and informed decision-making on behalf of the participants. Under the FAA sponsorship, SIM-C has been developed as an early prototype and proof-of-concept for a more fully developed SWIM tool.

Tanker-Force Structure: Recapitalization of the KC-135 (Maxwell Paper, Number 32)

Abstract: : Aerial refueling is key to the nation's global reach in response to operations in all parts of the world. As such, aerial refueling provides the bridge for air, joint, and coalition forces to deploy anywhere, anytime around the world. It is important in this era of transformation that the tanker force and doctrine of aerial refueling also meet the challenges of the Air Force's task force concept of operations (CONOPS). The KC-135 aircraft has been an outstanding platform for aerial refueling, and through some enhancements, it has been able to leverage some of its capabilities in airlift and communication. However, the Air Force has the opportunity with its next class of tankers to field a tanker with capabilities that can serve all the services in the more demanding joint and coalition warfare of the future. The author challenges air mobility warriors to develop a tanker-force structure that overcomes the thinking of old to launch new concepts and capabilities for the future. He argues that the future of warfare will require a tanker that is able to operate as a force enabler across the full spectrum of operations. The Boeing 767 is being considered as a replacement for the older KC-135s, which the author agrees with. However, he argues, it will not fit the bill when it comes to meeting the challenges of the future -- instead, a tanker designed from the ground up should recapitalize the KC-135 fleet. The tanker of the future cannot resemble the single-role tanker of the past. The author outlines a conceptual tanker that combines airlift and aerial-refueling capabilities, is able to survive in a combat environment, and is able to act as a platform to enhance network-centric warfare. He also examines the chronology of the tanker, and the role it has played throughout military history.

Capabilities and Accommodations on the ISS EXPRESS Pallet

Abstract: The International Space Station (ISS) has several external attach locations to permit space research and observations outside the pressurized volume of the Space Station. To facilitate the installation of small individual payloads, NASA is developing a system that will provide the necessary data routing, power distribution, and structural interfaces, for the accommodation of these small external payloads. The system will be called the Express Pallet and will support 6 small adapter size payloads that can be individually removed and replaced on orbit. The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the system as proposed, detail the concept of operations of the system, and summarize the capabilities of the system.

4.4.1 Concept of Operations Development Considerations for a Highly Networked System

Abstract: Within the United States Department of Defense, the interest and focus on Network-Centric Systems (NCS) is increasing. The US Navy defines network-centric operations as “military operations that exploit state-of-the-art information and networking technology to integrate widely dispersed human decision makers, situational and targeting sensors, and forces and weapons into a highly adaptive, comprehensive system to achieve unprecedented mission effectiveness.” (Committee, 2000) Therefore, the benefits of building a NCS appear to be obvious and desirable for providing greater information in order to render higher quality decisions and provide greater overall system capability. However what is not so obvious is the priority order of the incremental system benefits realized by the NCS. There is a need to identify the magnitude and order of the systems (or system capabilities) that are to be integrated to provide the greatest impact on the NCS mission needs. The importance of developing a clear Concept of Operations (ConOps) document has been acknowledged for many years (since R. J. Lano's seminal publication in 1980). The process traditionally involves a single Systems Engineer (or System Architect) responsible for taking the needs statements from the involved stakeholders, and consolidating this tops-down information into a coherent ConOps document. When the size of systems and the number of stakeholders were both small this “single person focal point” was reasonable; however, with NCSs this approach is no longer sufficient. The challenge is how to best formulate a NCS-level ConOps when the number of stakeholders with uncompromising needs has increased drastically. Since a new NCS is often made up of existing systems plus the development of new state-of-the-art and emerging-technology systems, there is potential to provide an early system analysis from the bottoms-up and integrate with the stakeholder tops-down needs. This source of information is the existing constituent system Concept of Operations (ConOps) documents. However, how can these be effectively used? This paper focuses on a reasonable implementation in direct support of the NCS Systems Engineer with the tops-down and bottoms-up mapping for effectively feeding the NCS-level ConOps document development process.