Defense Computer Resources Technology Plan

This plan is the result of four years of intensive analysis and evaluation to determine the causes of DoD computer resources problems and to define a comprehensive R and D program to solve them. It addresses technology needs and opportunities for the computers embedded in major weapons systems--for example, those that guide missiles to their targets, aim guns, control and process the data from radars and other sensor systems, and control high- performance airplanes, some of which are inherently unstable and impossible to control without computer assistance. The rate of progress in integrated circuits and computer technology is startling. Fifteen years ago, all computers were large and expensive. Today, powerful computers for home use cost only a few hundred dollars, and hand calculators cost as little as five dollars. With Very Large Scale Integrated Circuit technology, advanced computers will cost as little as 5 or 10 every home will have several of them, embedded in everything from washing machines to childrens toys. Flexible computer- controlled communications systems and large-scale command and control systems with sophisticated decision aids will make it possible to coordinate the actions of globally dispersed forces and achieve a concentration of resources unprecedented in the history of warfare.