Expeditionary mobile operations center (EMOC)

Abstract

This research explores a viable solution to the U.S.Marine Corps’ (USMC) communications gap at the tactical edge. The aim is to leverage commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) technology to provide a combat operations center (COC) like communication architecture to small units operating in austere environments. The proposed architecture required must be lightweight, energy efficient, and allow greater mobility through a reduced footprint and energy consumption. By reducing the energy required for unit communications, this theoretical architecture decreases fuel needs, leading to a reduction in logistical-supply requirements. The emergency operational center (EOC) architectural concept is examined as an example of virtualized technology to determine how such an architecture might satisfy USMC requirements. Server virtualization, hastily formed networks, the functionality of software and hardware in a virtual environment, and the original concept of the EOC architecture are explored. Expeditionary considerations and Marine Air Ground Task Force command-and-control (C2) characteristics are also considered, along with current communication architectures, comparing capabilities, weight, and power consumption to determine a baseline for future C2 technology. Finally, the interoperability and security of the EOC are discussed in relation to software and hardware used by the USMC.