Systems theory and the science of military command and control

Abstract

Purpose

To propose a new military academic area called the “Science of Military Command and Control” which will demand an entirely new way of thinking regarding decision‐making command and control and use of modern technology.

Design/methodology/approach

Defines basic terms and concepts of the discipline and a meta‐theory consisting of General Systems Theory and its related areas is presented.

Findings

Three main perspectives are recommended where the first is General Systems Theory, the second is the Cybernetics Regulatory Paradigm and the third is Communication and Information Theory. The components of military command and control system were analysed and a general model for information system development recommended.

Research limitations/implications

Current thinking in favour of a “network‐defense” that is based on information and communication technology has changed the traditional perspective. New thinking and research development is required. New research using scientific approach is needed.

Practical implications

Shows that the old and exact strategies for Swedish defence has totally changed. New military academic area is proposed and a general model outlined.

Originality/value

Proposes a new way of thinking which will affect future military planning. A cybernetic/systemic methodology provides solutions.

Citation

Skyttner, L. (2005), "Systems theory and the science of military command and control", Kybernetes, Vol. 34 No. 7/8, pp. 1240-1260. https://doi.org/10.1108/03684920510606000