Military Information Networks as Complex Adaptive Systems

摘要

New information technology now permits a vastly increased degree of connectivity in military communication networks. This more connected architecture should result in faster response times and greater efficiencies in military operations. A potential downside, however, is that highly connected network architectures are more prone to chaotic behaviors. Unfortunately, these behaviors are: nonlinear, frequently counter intuitive, usually manifested only under severe stress, and difficult to discern under the 'artificial' conditions of training exercises. This paper introduces a methodology and a set of tools for the simulation of nonlinear network behaviors. The approach taken is to consider military information networks to be complex adaptive systems made up of autonomous decision nodes (of variable capacity and responsiveness) coupled by information flows (of variable urgencies and multiplicities). A coupled map- lattice approach to the simulation of network dynamic behavior (greatly facilitated via the recursive functions of the Mathematica(TradeMark) software package) is employed. Although simplistic, this approach may possess the appropriate degree of 'essential nonlinearity' for use by network designers seeking to hone their nonlinear intuition. If destructive chaotic behaviors can be thereby anticipated and ameliorated prior to their occurrence in military operations, then the promises of information age technology may be fully realized by our nation's military forces.