CALL No. 04-13: OIF CAAT II Initial Impressions Report - CSS C3I - Importance of Information Management for Coalition Transporters

CALL Newsletter 04-13
Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF)
CAAT II Initial Impressions Report (IIR)

Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF)
CAAT II Initial Impressions Report (IIR)

Chapter 4: Combat Service Support
Topic D: CSS C3I

Subtopic 5: Importance of Information Management for Coalition Transporters

Observation Synopsis

During initial operations at Multi-National Division, South East (MND SE), information concerning details of movement within the theater was a challenge upon initial arrival in theater. Information within various commands of U.S. forces was degraded by system compartmentalization. Connectivity and interoperability of systems limited shared information related to movement tracking. J4-Movements within the Multi-National Joint Logistics Center (MJLC) identified points of contact within major units to facilitate improved information management. A movement liaison team was requested through TF HQ, and a cell at UmmQasr was identified to observe cross-loading of cargo. At each of the locations, knowledge of the movement architecture was essential with embedded liaison officers (LNO). In the end, identifying key transportation personnel providing information linkage at Navistar (Kuwait), CSC Cedar II, CSC Scania, and Baghdad was the key to successfully tracking movements in theater.

Lessons Learned

The future is in multinational operations. Future commanders must ensure tracking of all movement operations must have asset visibility.
Asset visibility can be best achieved through interoperable communications systems (data and voice).
Short of utilizing interoperable communications systems which all coalition forces have access to, is to establish relationships early in operations ensuring passage of vital information.