Policy and policy formulation considerations for incorporation of secure mobile devices in USMC ground combat units

Abstract

Modern information technology evolves at a rapid pace, and the U.S.Marine Corps ground combat units require cutting-edge capabilities in order to maintain a competitive advantage. The advent and military application of smartphones and smartphone applications provide a plethora of advantages that these forces seek to leverage, yet the very rapidity of their development presents a host of network security problems. This thesis examines the conceptual risk framework for incorporating smartphones into ground combat units, and uses a cutting-edge smartphone capability, the Field Information Support Tool, as a case study. Furthermore, the comparatively slow policy-making process of the DOD ensures that policy requirements will lag behind the emerging technologies and the novel threats these technologies introduce. This thesis conducts a policy review of existing DOD policies that apply to smartphones and network security, as well as examines and models the policy formulation process in an effort to reform it in a way more conducive to the incorporation of fast-growing capabilities.