CALL No. 04-13: OIF CAAT II Initial Impressions Report - CSS STAMIS

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 E: CSS STAMIS

Subtopic 3: Standard Army Management Information System (STAMIS) Hardware Vulnerability

Observation Synopsis

Program Manager (PM) issued STAMIS equipment is almost universally commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) hardware designed by civilians to be used in an office or home environment. The only STAMIS exception to this is the mobile tracking system (MTS). These systems are not compatible with the harsh environment that Army units subject them to. The unit-level logistics system (ULLS) computers that the National Training Center issues to rotational units are "ruggedized" laptops which are subjected to harsh environments for a month at a time every two months, yet continue to provide reliable service. MTS is not reliable in an austere desert environment since it has to be upgraded too often and is subject to damage. Although MTS provides communications capability across huge distances, MTS lacks adequate durability. Additionally, the instant messaging feature of MTS should be expanded to allow more characters per message.

Lessons Learned

MTS mobile systems are not compatible with the harsh environment that Army units subject them to.
ULLS computers the National Training Center issues to rotational units are "ruggedized" laptops which are subjected to harsh environments for long periods yet continue to provide reliable service.

DOTMLPF Implications

Materiel: All STAMIS provided from the PM should be ruggedized laptops. MTS antennas should be made rugged enough to withstand cross-country travel in harsh environments.