Comparison of "functional concept of battlespace awareness" versus the concept of "power to the edge," with a focus on integrating shotspotter sensors and unmanned aerial vehicles

Abstract

Current military doctrine is primarily hierarchical in nature with respect to power and authority. The "Functional Concept of Battlespace Awareness" (FCBA) is a military sensor methodology that employs a hierarchical command structure to test emerging technologies. Asymmetric warfare, however, demands a faster and more adaptive warfighting mentality that distributes power and responsibility across more of our forces; particularly those that are at the frontlines of the battlefield. "Power to the Edge" is a warfighting methodology that emphasizes a departure from traditional military hierarchies and a transition into a configuration that empowers "Edge" actors with information and authority. This thesis will prove that "Power to the Edge" doctrine is a more effective way to fight the enemies we will likely face in the Information Age. By analyzing and interpreting data collected at the Extended Awareness II and Extended Awareness IIB experiments, this thesis will show that transition in our current command and control methodology will be necessary to keep up with a changing enemy.