Soviet Naval Force Control and the Red naval C system: what the Blue commander needs to know

Abstract

Soviet Naval Force Control is the process that the Soviets use to control naval forces during execution of assigned missions, as well as create and maintain combat readiness and fighting efficiency. It is the underlying basis of the Red naval C3 system; it provides control throughout a system composed of command posts, intelligence sensors, naval forces and weapons, and an interconnecting communications network. The concept of Soviet Naval Force Control and its support of the Red naval C3 system is discussed in this thesis. Emphasis is placed on how the Blue commander can use this information to enhance his decision making process concerning the utilization of his own C3 system. Major concepts examined in the thesis include Marxist-Leninist theory, Soviet military thought, cybernetics, and the Naval Force Control process. The assumption is made by the author that a Blue commander who is aware of and conversant with the major concepts presented in this thesis will have a better understanding of the Soviet approach to the C3 process and how it affects Soviet actions. In turn, this understanding will increase his ability to control his own C3 system and successfully achieve his goal in battle outcome. Theses. (fr)