CLOSING THE TECHNOLOGY GAP: PARTNER FORCE DIGITAL TOOLS FOR INFORMATION ADVANTAGE, PROJECT I-SHARE–INFORMATION SHARING, AND HOSTING ADVANCED REMOTE ECOSYSTEM ASSESSMENTS

Abstract

Project ISHARE validated the theory that partner force data-sharing platforms require early iteration with foreign partners to ensure suitable design and create long-term adoption. Strategic competition requires reassessing how U.S. SOF cultivates operational relationships and shares critical data and information between partners. The operational relationships developed by SOF teams must modernize through secure digital tools to merge physical and digital personas for persistent engagement and information sharing. The project assessed two emerging platforms with partners in the Philippines. Survey results indicate that both platforms could be effective for operational use but lack sustainable connectivity for remote areas. The results highlighted that 55% of partner force respondents use unsecured apps to share data with U.S. SOF. Additionally, 66% of respondents agreed that the Civil Knowledge Integration-Tactical Assault Kit (CKI-TAK) or Field Information Support Tool (FIST) would reduce their dependence on unsecured platforms. Survey results, including respondents from over 25 nations, confirmed that partner nations do not provide their forces with the necessary digital tools for COP development and secure data sharing. The in-country assessments inform recommendations to develop next-generation secure partner force data-sharing platforms at the edge for both Mil-Mil and Civ-Mil coordination and use such platforms as a deterrence mechanism in Taiwan.