ABSTRACT
Efforts are well underway in many European countries to develop and acquire national, and in some cases multinational, capabilities for network-based operations. As already noted, no country has fully embraced the concept of networkcentric operations to the extent the American military has. None are seeking to create a full, single infrastructure fusing all existing and future assets. Most have opted, at least, for some integration and upgrading of existing capabilities toward greater networking. Major procurement programs focus particular attention on cross-service C2 systems, digital communications, and ISR platforms (tactical, operational, and strategic). In all of these countries, rapid advances in commercial communication and information technology have created a wealth of products applicable to military C4ISR at a relatively low unit cost. As a result, for many of these countries, expensive weapons platforms can be improved through C4ISRrelated upgrades, thereby increasing capability at an affordable cost.
