Modern technologies are developing at an incredible speed, and this process is accelerating over time. New achievements related to information and electronics are affecting all areas of human life. For instance, they are used in everyday activities of people, business, trade, and science. In particular, the use of modern technology has a significant impact on the military sphere. Researchers state that “leaders say they are looking for a new approach to data, one that breaks down siloes while maintaining security” (Stone, 2020, p. 1). Thus, this issue is one of the vital among these people now.
ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) is one of the most important methods of data collection, and with the development of technology, the capabilities of these systems increase. Undoubtedly, this affects the quality of intelligence and tracking, allowing people to get more data and have more opportunities for their analysis (Arrigo, 2016). However, one of the main problems associated with ISRs is their diversity. Different military organizations within the same country use different ISR systems, which can lead to misunderstandings and errors (Leadership perspective: Managing intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance (ISR) integration, 2020). This situation may turn out to be critical; therefore, it is necessary to understand whether it is worth developing a particular system for all these organizations and introducing it everywhere.
On the one hand, it is necessary to be fully aware of the adverse effects of an excessive number of ISR systems. The main problem is that military organizations must work together within the framework of one paradigm since, for instance, in case of an emergency, they will need to exchange information. However, when using different ISR systems, data transfer will become a much more time-consuming process. There is a possibility that one of the parties will not even be able to use them due to the inappropriate format. This means that the communication process will be disrupted, and there will be no opportunity to bring it back to normal quickly. The state should not allow such difficulties in emergencies.
On the other hand, functioning within the framework of a single ISR system will make the data exchange process quick and convenient. This can have a significant positive effect on the military sphere, as professionals in this field will be able to spend resources on more critical issues. Researchers state that professionals should “ensure the development of an institutional culture imbued with a deep expertise in intelligence and national security” (Richelson, 2018, p. 38). Moreover, in a critical situation, the time and effort saved can also play a significant role.
It is undeniable that the integration of a single ISR system is associated with a wide range of difficulties. This requires time, money, and the work of specialists. Integration is also connected with bureaucratic issues: the use of systems will need to be established with the help of many documents. However, these efforts are necessary to build a more productive interaction between different organizations in the future.
Thus, the creation of a single ISR system for various military organizations is a useful and significant prospect. Without it, military forces could potentially suffer considerable damage, which could adversely affect the entire state. If this system is available, these situations can be avoided. According to Suojanen (2018), “since military operations cover life and death situations, validity of information in space and time is often stressed in the planning” (p. 19). Military organizations will be able to work more productively and harmoniously. ISR system development and introduction are worth the effort and resources necessary for its creation because it is designed for long and fruitful functioning.
References
Arrigo, B. (2016). The SAGE encyclopedia of surveillance, security, and privacy. SAGE Publications.
Leadership perspective: Managing intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance (ISR) integration (2020).
Richelson, J. T. (2018). The U.S. intelligence community. Routledge.
Stone, A. (2020). IoT and ISR: How an Internet of Things approach to data could drive military intelligence. C4IRSNET.
Suojanen, M. (2018). Military communications in the future battlefield. Artech House.