§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has for instituting battle management systems and digitisation testbed configurations within the Royal forces. [99416]
§ Mr. KilfoyleBattle management systems are being introduced to optimise decision support in areas from crisis management to operations in theatre. The Joint Operational Command System (JOCS) provides this capability to the Permanent Joint Headquarters and its deployed headquarters and has been used on recent operations. All three services have programmes to deliver battle management systems which will integrate with JOCS. They include
The Command Support System for the Royal Navy. Currently being introduced into service, it provides for enhanced information systems and management functions between ships, submarines and shore headquarters.The Army's Formation Battle Management System will provide a fully integrated and deployable command and control system from a Corps headquarters down to units. It will be linked with the Battle Group Battle Management System.379WThe RAF Command and Control Information System is currently being implemented. It will provide for the command and control of air assets from operational stations to headquarters. It is envisaged that it will develop towards the Joint Command System (Air) and integrate with other command systems.Joint Battlespace Digitization, which is in the early stages of development, aims to integrate operational information systems across the land, sea and air environments to enhance military capability in joint operations.
A study is currently being conducted to explore the feasibility for a joint service test and reference facility to incorporate the current single Service reference centres in providing a joint digitization testbed. The programme is in the very early stages.