In Search of an Effective C2 Architecture for Counterinsurgency Operations: Lessons from the Colombian Experience

摘要

In recent years Colombia's security forces have manifested an increased interest in C2 technology, multiplying programs to upgrade existing platforms and acquire new ones. Despite budget constraints, however, it seems that system design and procurement efforts have lacked sufficient coordination. Evidence suggests that the pursuit of separate -- and often incompatible -- C2 platforms has hindered progress towards successful joint and interagency cooperation. Given the nature of Colombia's armed conflict and the existence of joint and interagency operations doctrine since the 1970s, the current state of affairs seems quite a paradox. This paper proposes that much of the current situation results from two primary sources: (1) the persistence of considerable differences among the security forces' strategic visions of their role in the Internal Armed Conflict and the nature of the illegal armed groups, and (2) the civilian leadership's unwillingness and/or inability to play an active role in the C2 process. The paper reviews the evolution of C2 concepts across the Colombian security organizations, both civilian and military, and analyzes their impact upon the design of system architecture over time. In addition, it offers insight into the social processes that have facilitated, but mostly stonewalled, joint and interagency cooperation over the years.