Doom of My Enemies: Dark Networks and Tactical ISR.

摘要

This project advances two propositions. First, 'dark' or 'shadow' networks, which often operate from within ungoverned areas, pose an increasing and significant threat to U.S. national interests. Understanding both the nature of ungoverned spaces and the types of organizations that create and perpetuate them will enable commanders and decision makers to optimize their use of available monitoring and targeting capabilities against these threats. Second, tactical Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) -- and the MC-12W 'Liberty' aircraft in particular -- constitute a powerful capability for Combatant Commanders tasked by national leaders to locate and target shadow networks. Two important corollaries spring from this second proposition. First, that using the MC-12 in this role may quickly elevate the effects of 'tactical' ISR to the strategic level. Second, that integrating the four functions of the MC-12 ISR system -- also known as the Four Pillars of tactical ISR -- creates synergistic effects that reap great value for the nation across a surprising spectrum of likely uses. In light of predicted budget shortfalls, tactical ISR provides a relatively low-cost and flexible capability to counter many of the most elusive threats of the 21st century.