The Disam Journal Of International Security Assistance Management - Brief Article

DISAM Journal, Summer, 2001

In this issue we feature the Air Force's Electronic Systems Center, the Center of Excellence for providing command, control, and information systems to support not only our own forces but also those of our allies. Since the Gulf War, it has been obvious that coalition warfare is in the forefront of military planning, and the interoperability of command and control systems is vital to successful military engagement. At ESC, the international and foreign military sales business is a key component of their product base and is essential to their ability to deliver interoperable, war-fighting products. Among the various articles describing ESC's activities are those on a joint-service Enterprise Team to optimize investments and avoid redundancy, how knowledge of Status of Forces Agreements can be incorporated into contracts for technical services, a successful foreign comparative testing program, and a multinational NATO program to develop the capability to detect and track vehicles near the ground with radar sen sors. In addition, the Regional Aerospace Initiative is designed to enhance civil/military airspace management and establish an air sovereignty system throughout Central and Eastern Europe.

As we all become more dependent on the use of the internet, we must be aware that the use of this new technology which enriches most of us may also create challenges for the blind and those whose motor skills are impaired. President Bush's remarks demonstrate how Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act will insure that federal electronic and information technology is accessible to those with disabilities. In this issue, we also present the president's international affairs budget for fiscal year 2002.

The United States Military Training Mission in Saudi Arabia is currently our largest security assistance organization abroad. Here we see how its strategic plan is driving changes which will enhance the ability of the organization to assist in the training and development of a capable deterrent and self-defense force in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The DoD financial management regulations for security assistance are currently under revision. Although the task is not yet completed, we present a summary of the changes proposed to date.

Finally, at the end of May we said goodbye to our colleague and commandant, Colonel Judy-Ann Carroll, USA. We wish her all the best as she sets a new course after 29 years of Army service.

CRAIG M. BRANDT

Deputy Commandant