Geospatial information and services (GI&S)

Definition

Geospatial Information and Services (GI&S) in military operations refers to the process of collecting, managing, interpreting, and disseminating geographic information. This information is helpful in creating detailed maps, charts, imagery, and data that aid in planning, decision making, and operation execution. The term also incorporates associated services such as training and support to manage and use the geospatial information.

Key Takeaways

1. Geospatial Information and Services (GI&S) is a critical aspect of military operations that involves the collection, analysis, management and distribution of geographically referenced information to support strategic, operational, and tactical decisions in a military context.
2. GI&S provides key capabilities including operational planning, surveillance, reconnaissance, navigation, environmental consideration, disaster management, and logistical support, enabling commanders to have situational awareness and make informed decisions.
3. The utilization of GI&S is increasingly becoming digital, leveraging satellite imagery, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Global Positioning Systems (GPS), and big data analytics. This digital transformation enhances the accuracy, speed, and efficiency of military operations.

Importance

Geospatial information and services (GI&S) play a critical role in military operations due to their ability to provide precise, reliable and timely spatial data.

This information is essential for situational awareness, decision-making, planning, navigation, and execution of military operations.

By providing detailed and accurate portrayals of the physical environment, enemy and friendly locations, GI&S support the prediction and analysis of potential tactical and strategic scenarios.

Furthermore, through the integration of geographical data into advanced technology platforms, GI&S contribute significantly to the operational efficiency of the military community.

Thus, the importance of GI&S in military operations is underpinned by its indispensability for ensuring successful mission outcomes.

Explanation

Geospatial Information and Services (GI&S) plays a critical role in military operations by providing necessary insights into the geographical and spatial characteristics of a particular area or region. Its primary purpose is to aid in strategic and tactical decision making, allowing military and defense agencies to better understand and navigate the physical environment in which they operate.

This data helps in mission planning, intelligence analysis, reconnaissance operations and logistic planning by delivering real-time geographical and environmental information such as terrain, weather, socio-cultural features, hydrography and more. For instance, through GI&S, military units can identify optimal routes for supply convoys, highlighting places of potential hazards or revealing tactical advantages like high vantage points or natural covers.

In combat operations, GI&S can offer precise coordinates for targeting or assist in the deployment of troops by providing details about possible enemy positions. Moreover, it facilitates post-operation assessments by depicting changes in the terrain and buildings of a particular region.

In essence, GI&S serves as a crucial military operational tool that helps in both strategic planning and execution of operational tasks.

Examples of Geospatial information and services (GI&S)

Operation Desert Storm, 1991: The U.S. military made significant use of geospatial information and services during this conflict in Iraq. Satellite images were used to map the terrain and plan operations, GIS technology was employed to track troop movements and predict enemy positions, and remote sensing data was utilized to assess damage and target enemy infrastructure. This operation is seen as a watershed moment in the military’s use of GIS technology, highlighting its potential in enhancing efficiency and effectiveness of operations.

Navy Seal Operation Neptune Spear, 2011: This operation was responsible for the finding and elimination of Osama Bin Laden. Detailed geospatial information was crucial in the operation, providing the seal team with information about the compound in Pakistan where Bin Laden was hiding. GIS services were used to model and simulate the compound and its surrounding area, aiding in the planning and successful execution of the mission.

U.S. Military Operations in Afghanistan and Iraq: In these ongoing conflicts, the U.S. military has been using geospatial information and services to a large extent. These services have been used to help identify IEDs (improvised explosive devices), map out routes for patrols and convoys, provide real-time situational awareness for troops on the ground, and support large-scale strategic planning for the overall campaign. For instance, GIS data gave military officials a better way to visualize the terrain and helped identify potential ambush sites, safe routes, and points of tactical importance.

Frequently Asked Questions about Geospatial Information and Services (GI&S)

What is Geospatial Information and Services (GI&S)?

GI&S refers to the data and associated services that involve all the geographic information, the services that help users exploit this information, and the tools that enable users to meet their needs.

What are some examples of Geospatial Information?

Some examples of geospatial information would include maps, charts, grid references, aerial and satellite images.

How is GI&S used in the military?

In the military, GI&S is used for various defense applications such as operational planning, terrain analysis, remote sensing, navigation, and so on. It helps in providing situational awareness, planning military operations and humanitarian assistance.

What types of tools are used to analyze the GI&S data?

Various tools like GIS (Geographic Information System), remote sensing, and GPS (Global Positioning System) are used to analyze the geospatial information.

Why is GI&S important?

Geospatial information is important as it helps in making strategic decisions, enhances operational responsiveness, supports crisis management and humanitarian assistance. Moreover, it allows for effective planning and strategizing of various military operations.

What skills are needed to work with GI&S?

Skills required to work with Geospatial Information and Services include GIS skills, analytical thinking, problem-solving, knowledge of geospatial analysis software, attention to detail, teamwork, and good communication skills.

Related Military Operation Terms

• GIS Mapping: The process of using geospatial information and services to create practical maps and 3D scenes.
• Geospatial Analysis: The gathering, display, and manipulation of imagery, GPS, satellite photography, and historical data.
• Remote Sensing: The scanning of the earth by satellite or high-flying aircraft to obtain geospatial data.
• Geospatial Intelligence: Information derived from the interpretation or analysis of geospatial information about activities on the earth.
• Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI): The technology, policies, standards, and human resources necessary to acquire, process, store, distribute, and improve utilization of geospatial data.

Sources for More Information

• National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency: This U.S government agency has a primary role in the analysis of geospatial information and services.
• U.S. Geological Survey: The USGS is a reliable source for a range of geospatial data services.
• Department of Homeland Security: This department of the U.S government provides data and resources related to geospatial information and services in relation to national security.
• Federal Geographic Data Committee: This is an interagency committee that promotes the coordinated use, sharing, and dissemination of geospatial data on a national basis.