An assessment of the Integrated Services Digital Network in support of command, control, communications and intelligence systems

This thesis explores the technology of the Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) and assess its value to strategic U.S. command, control, communications and intelligence (C3I). The author provides a brief overview of how telecommunications systems support the concept of C2 and what some of the problems are in this area. A review of the ISDN concept is provided which serves as the foundation for assessing the significance of ISDN to the military and its value in meeting the particular requirements associated with C3I telecommunication networks. Some of the more substantive issues of transitioning to ISDN are addressed such as network management and security. The author concludes that ISDN is an attractive long-term goal architecture. They are, however, several significant areas (applications, network management requirements, security architecture) that must be proactively addressed before ISDN is suitable for application in the C3I environment. (fr)