Communication at urban warfare - radio and laser

Urban warfare is nothing new but the view of it has changed. The materiel and doctrines are not adapted to urban environments which will influence both the soldiers and the tactics. Efficient command and control demand communication with all kinds of units. There are, today, several different types of sensors in use but their information are not available to everybody who might need it. The communication network and the sensors are not integrated. In the future, small, simple cooperated sensors scattered in the terrain will form one advanced sensor. But the realization demands a fully integrated communication network. The high speed in urban warfare requires new demands on information and intelligence. It is therefore important that the information immediately reach the combat unit in the area. When sensors and unmanned vehicles are introduced as a tactical part in an operation, it is important that also their information, without delays, reach the unit. Ongoing research and development will result in knowledge and materiel that will reduce the soldiers´ physical and psychological stress in urban warfare. However, every new piece of equipment must be scrutinized to ensure its value for the soldier.