Force Development and Technology Program

RAND Arroyo Center identifies and assesses ways in which technological advances and new operational concepts can improve the Army’s effectiveness in current and future conflicts. The work focuses on helping the Army determine how to maintain its technological edge against adaptable adversaries. This is accomplished by performing assessments of a technology’s feasibility, performance, cost, and risk.

Most recently, the program has featured work on exploiting information technology for command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR); continued development of modeling and simulation tools for examining modern conflicts; seeking efficiencies in the materiel acquisition process; and examining emerging trends in war fighting such as IED use, cyber operations, and the use of unmanned systems. In undertaking studies and analyses for this core competency, Arroyo seeks to provide unbiased, independent assessments of new weapon systems and operational concepts that emphasize jointness. It also analyzes new technologies to support future Army analytical needs and refines strategies for developing new technologies and acquiring new systems. At the same time, both Arroyo and RAND develop and maintain analytical combat models and simulations that support this core competency.

To accomplish its mission, the program sus- tains research streams in six policy domains:

• Systems and technology analysis.
• Networks and C4ISR
• Modeling and simulation
• Force and organizational development
• Acquisition policy
• Assessment of tactics, techniques and procedures

Inquiries about the Force Development and Technology Program or its activities can be directed to:

Bruce Held
Director, Force Development and Technology Program
RAND Corporation
1776 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90407
(310) 393-0411 x7405
Bruce_Held@rand.org