The U.S. Army is currently exploring the potential of edge computing and cloud technology as part of its strategy to enhance operational effectiveness. During the recent Army IT Day organized by AFCEA, Leonel Garciga, the Army’s chief information officer, emphasized the need to reassess the application of cloud services in tactical scenarios. He highlighted that lessons learned from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine illustrate that operations occur at a micro level, which may not align with the larger-scale deployment of cloud systems.
Garciga pointed out that understanding the future of Army operations is critical for developing suitable capabilities at different levels of engagement. He noted that the concept of “the edge” will differ among branches of the military and across various operational theaters. For instance, the approach taken by the Navy or Air Force will not mirror that of the Army, indicating the need for tailored solutions that meet specific requirements.
To address the complexities of network management within smaller units, the Army is focused on simplifying its technological infrastructure. Garciga warned against adding unnecessary complications through additional edge capabilities, as this could hinder troops’ primary mission of focusing on combat rather than technology management.
In a complementary discussion, Mark Kitz, a program executive officer, emphasized the importance of defining roles within the Army to determine who needs edge computing capabilities. He indicated that operational requirements might dictate edge technology needs; for example, battalion commanders managing small drones might require such capabilities, unlike units engaged in standard patrol tasks.
The Army is actively experimenting with these concepts at events such as Project Convergence Capstone 5. This experimentation will focus on understanding what data soldiers need access to and securing it effectively. The findings will inform ongoing projects like the Next Generation Command and Control initiative, which aims to reimagine how the Army operates through agile, software-centric architectures.
As the Army pushes forward, officials recognize that the platoon level may serve as the tactical edge, prompting inquiries into what compute capabilities can be deployed at this level. Col. Mike Kaloostian of Army Futures Command expressed the Army’s commitment to minimizing reliance on cloud technology and ensuring efficient data processing at the tactical edge to reduce latency.
This dedication to innovation positions the Army to adapt to future warfare demands while maintaining a focused and efficient operational posture. The emphasis on role-specific technology solutions also reflects a thoughtful approach to enhancing combat readiness in an era marked by rapid technological advancement.
In summary, the Army’s focus on defining and experimenting with edge computing solutions illustrates a proactive stance toward modern warfare challenges, providing hope for a more efficient and responsive military force.