Managing chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear environments in joint operations

Authors:

  • Per Wikberg
  • Seth Nilsson

Publish date: 2009-12-31

Report number: FOI-R--2937--SE

Pages: 32

Written in: English

Abstract

Nuclear (CBRN) Defence module integrated in a Command and Control (C2) System. The aim is to define a baseline for an enhanced capability compared with the capabilities provided by the current C2 tool. Thus, the concept is the framework to define the Tactical Technical Economical Requirements (TTEM) of such a module. Inputs to the concept and the outline of the TTEM has been based on earlier work and generated in a war gaming session on executing a joint operations mission cycle. The concept has primarily been developed to meet the demands of an international scenario. In addition, the focus is on the CBRN defence ability of regular units. Even if it is also valid for specific CBRN defence units, these must have an enhanced capability in terms of as well training and equipment as mission profile. In case CBRN defence aspects is a core characteristics of a mission, such CBRN defence units must be allocated. Compared to the CBRN defence strategy executed during the cold war scenario, the concept stresses the importance of managing CBRN defence events in a way that meet forensic demands. In addition, a unit must be able to simultaneously conduct human relief, peace support operations, combat operations and intelligence and information operations, and this in order not only to win the war but also to win the peace. This must be done against an opponent that will act as an irregular force, dispersed over large areas, hiding among civilian structures, with no clear force structure. Using CBRN protective equipment in such an environment might be, intentionally or unintentionally, misinterpreted as dispersion of CBRN agents. Consequently, C2 of such activities must be carefully orchestrated and coordinated. The concept is divided into three operational phases; pre deployment, mission execution and post deployment.