Geographical Information Systems in Armed Warfare

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses how today's technology has altered the face of modern warfare and looks at some of the different types of technology that are used in warfare. The paper then focuses on geographical information systems (GIS) and their uses in the armed forces. It specifically discusses the advantages gained through military use of GIS systems.

Table of Contents:
The Technology
Military Operations Involving Troop Deployments and Movement
Legacy Weather
Legacy Mapping
GIS, GPS and the Law
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"So long as the GIS satellite is not referred to as a "weapon system," say Intoccia and More, then DoD is not in violation of an international treaty or agreement. If, however, an allegation is made as a result of the communications coming from the shared system that is being used by DoD in the war in Afghanistan or Iraq, then there could be problems for the continued use of the shared system."
"The GIS technology is only now being explored as to its ultimate capacity as a military technology. There is still ongoing debate, as detailed in the 2003 GAO report, as to its uses and surrounding its shared satellite system. It is a technology that advances the awareness of military operations, and cannot be lost to international challenge. The military must take action to secure its use of the system in a way that will not jeopardize either the use of the technology, or see the United States being charged for violation of international laws."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Amodeo, Christian. 'Eyes in the Skies: In the Past Ten Years, the Number of People Making Use of Satellite Technology Has Soared,' Geographical, vol 75, Campion Interactive Publishing Limited, February, 2003, p. 48
• Pace, Scott, Frost, Gerald, Frelinger, David, Fossum, Donna, Wassem, Donald K., and Pinto, Monica. The Global Positioning System: Assessing National Policies, New York, Rand, 1995, p. 197.
• National Geodetic Survey (NGS), found online at http://www.ngs.noaa.gov/, retrieved 15 September 2008.
• ERIS GIS and Mapping Software, found online at http://www.esri.com/news/arcnews/fall07articles/gis-the-geographic-approach.html, retrieved 15 September 2008.
• Satellite Imaging Corporation (SIC), found online at http://www.satimagingcorp.com/svc/gismapping.html, retrieved 15 September 2008.

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