6 Sep 96

SUBJECT: J5 Warfighting Vision - Strategic War Planning System (SWPS)

  1. PURPOSE. Provide the J5 warfighting vision for SWPS at the Industry Day forum (17-18 Sep 96). Briefing to be presented by J5B and will provide a short overview on where USSTRATCOM is headed with respect to SWPS.

  1. KEY POINTS:

- "Where We Were". In the past, SIOP planning was extremely complex and time consuming. SWPS planning architecture was redundant, inconsistent and out-dated. It needed modernization. It was time for new thinking, new ideas and new initiatives.

- "What We Did". Strategic Planning Study completed in 1993. Zero based review of SIOP planning and its supporting SWPS architecture (system, application tools, infrastructure and databases). The result was a "funded" three-phase SWPS modernization plan.

-- Phase I: Update the computing environment to support subsequent application/software migration.

-- Phase II: Migrate applications/software to the planning workstations and server architecture.

-- Phase III: Develop a new Enterprise Database (EDB), transition SIOP planning applications to EDB and implement Client-Server environment.

- "What We'll Get". SIOP planning timelines reduced by 66%, adaptive planning timelines optimized, elimination of redundant databases and data terms, adherence to DoD data standards, utilization of standard analysis application tools, reduction in personnel, operating, maintenance and support costs providing significant overall cost savings/avoidance. RESULT: a faster, more efficient, more capable and more user-friendly SWPS.

- "Some Concerns". There is a high level of risk in transitioning from the old to the new SWPS. During a short transition period SIOP planners will "maintain" a SIOP under the old SWPS and "build" a SIOP under the new SWPS. Some applications will not be totally compatible with the new EDB. Additionally, if problems/delays occur previous personnel cuts cannot be reclaimed.

- "Maintaining Our Edge". SWPS modernization will provide the necessary platform to move into whatever direction that further optimizes future SIOP planning. This could include improved theater planning, C4I integration into a global integrated command and control system, next-generation database and adaptation to new missions and technologies.

PREPARED BY: LT COL DICK DUNCAN, USAF

J525, EXT 7634

APPROVED BY: DR (SES-3) HARDEBECK, J5B

CMDR HOLLAND, J525