Computers on the Battlefield: Can They Survive

摘要

The survival of computer systems may well prove critical to the success or failure of US military forces in combat. Survivability of computer systems is a new issue, one about which little has been written. Now that information and experience gradually have become available, the national defense community must begin to address the major problems posed by this new technology. This report examines the factors affecting computer survivability in both conventional and nuclear land battles. The author explains the necessity of including survivability as a key consideration in the peacetime development, standardization, training, management, and procurement of computer resources. He concludes by examining a mature Army computer system for lessons that planners can apply to the design of future systems. Given the continuing proliferation of computer technology throughout our armed services, this study of computer survivability is indeed timely.