Top insights into Command and Control: Military Experts Reveal the Future of C2

When it comes to the command and control of an operation there are many views on how to get it right. Not least of which change as methods of warfare evolve. But one thing everyone can agree on is that without it, failure is inevitable.

The Command and Control podcast, hosted by Dr Peter Roberts, and sponsored by Systematic, brings together a diverse group of experts from across the defence sector, including both military and civilian voices. Over the past year these experts have shared their insights and experiences, shedding light on the complexities and evolution of C2. Here are the top eight things we have learned from these discussions that we wanted to share. See what you think – did we pick the right ones? And do your views differ?

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1.?????? You should delegate to the point of discomfort.

Major General Darcy Molstad explained the importance of delegation within the Canadian military context, especially given the strategic pressures of shared responsibilities with the US and the Arctic's unique challenges. This approach necessitated commanders delegating responsibilities to the extent that it became uncomfortable, but resulted in a robust and flexible command structure. His approach was echoed by Colonel Lester (Ray) Gerber of the USMC, who discussed the Corps' philosophy of decentralised command and aggregated control. He explained that this flexible approach allows for a more dynamic and responsive C2 system, contrasting with more rigid structures in other military forces

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2.?????? Environmental extremes add a new dimension for command.

Major General Karl Engelbrekston of the Swedish Army highlighted the unique challenges of C2 in extreme environments like the Arctic. His insights emphasised the need for adaptability and empowerment in command structures, crucial for effective operations in harsh conditions.

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3.?????? Artificial Intelligence in military C2 – it’s here but maybe not as big as you might think.

This episode delved into the role of AI and machine learning in modern C2 systems. Former Chief of the Royal Danish Air Force Henrik Dam and Brigadier General (Rtd) Henrik Sommer discussed the realistic applications of these technologies, separating hype from practical utility, and answering all of those questions around defence and whether decisions on life and death can really be handed over to a computer.

?4.?????? Strategic challenges from a psychologist’s perspective – what makes a good leader?

Sarah Chapman-Trim, a psychologist who works for the UK’s Ministry of Defence, delved into the strategic challenges faced by military leaders in the current global context. She explained how these challenges require a nuanced understanding of both traditional and modern C2 approaches, described how to make the ‘least worst’ decision, explored the fallacy of the divine general and how people should be trained to be better leaders.

5.?????? NATO: Effective C2 within an alliance is complex

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Colonel Mietta Groeneveld from the NATO C2 Centre of Excellence shared her insights from intensive discussions on how to improve NATO's C2 capabilities. The conversation revealed ongoing efforts to enhance interoperability and effectiveness within the alliance, particularly within a modern operating environment where external threats mean that allies must work together effectively to be a credible deterrence.

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6.?????? Back to machines but now looking at trust – can humans really trust what a machine tells them?

Dr Christina Balis explored the complexities of trust in C2, particularly between humans and machines, in a paper in 2022. This aspect is becoming increasingly important as more automated systems are integrated into military operations, necessitating a shift in how trust and reliability are understood and managed. She explains that there is less of a demand for coders (or software savvy commanders), and more for diverse education sets and inquisitive minds. Especially if the philosophies of delegated and mission-command are to remain more than rhetoric.

?7.?????? Naval command and control has its own unique characteristics.

Vice Admiral Martin Connell, Second Sea Lord, Royal Navy emphasised the importance of maritime domain awareness within joint structures and how the Royal Navy investigating – at pace - the integration of advanced technologies to enhance its naval operations. Leadership is also under the microscope as VAdm Connell discusses how the Royal Navy is adapting its C2 structures to meet modern threats and operational demands

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8.?????? Many more sophisticated sensors means more data – which means tighter controls, but ensuring that can be a challenge.

Industry expert Andrew Graham gives his insights which underscore the dynamic and evolving nature of military command and control, highlighting the importance of flexibility, technological integration, and the move from C2 systems just being able to ‘talk’ to each other to providing the common operational picture that consists of all feeds and latest data. But how do you operate such a system when the transmitting of all that data comes at such a high risk of it being intercepted?

To hear these insights subscribe to the podcast here: Podcast: 'Command and Control' by Peter Roberts | A defence podcast sponsored by Systematic And let us know what you think in the comments.

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