Foundation geospatial-intelligence data

Definition

Foundation Geospatial-Intelligence data, in military terms, refers to the basic or baseline intelligence information used in the planning, analysis, and execution of military operations. It includes maps, charts, and other geospatial data detailing the physical features and geographically referenced activities on the Earth. This data serves as a reference source for strategic decision-making, mission planning, and situational awareness during operations.

Key Takeaways

1. Foundation Geospatial-Intelligence Data (FGD) helps in offering a comprehensive, accurate and reliable geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) that supports strategic, operational and tactical actions in military operations.
2. FGD consists of worldwide imagery, terrain data, and a variety of other information, including thematic and reference layers like hydrography, transportation, topography, and boundaries. This data is used to build a geographically accurate picture of the operational environment.
3. FGD plays a crucial role in providing a base for planning military operations, making tactical decisions, and providing situational visibility to personnel on the ground and in the air.

Importance

Foundation Geospatial-Intelligence (GEOINT) Data is crucial in military operations because it provides the baseline geospatial information used in planning, analysis, visualization, and operation execution.

This data includes natural and man-made physical features, terrain data, charts, place names, boundaries, and other pertinent geographical information.

Accurate GEOINT data offers real-world contextual information, aiding in navigation, tactical decision-making, strategic planning, and asset coordination.

It is the backbone of many modern military operations, enhancing situational awareness and contributing significantly to mission success.

Explanation

Foundation geospatial-intelligence data is used primarily to support situational awareness and decision-making processes in military operations. It forms the basis of geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) which is crucial for planning and executing military missions. This data incorporates a wide range of geographical information and characteristics including natural and man-made features, imaginary lines, and topographical details.

Integrated with advanced technology, it allows commanders to visualize the operational environment in different contexts such as spatial relations, physical features, and other valuable geographic information about the area of operation. The usage of foundation geospatial-intelligence data goes beyond just battlefield scenarios. In planning and logistics, this data is used to determine the most efficient routes for movement or supply delivery and to identify potential barriers or hazards.

Not only for strategic purposes, but this data also aids in tactical operations, such as identifying optimal locations for defenses or spotting potential ambush sites. Moreover, in humanitarian and rescue missions, it helps in assessing damage, mapping disaster-struck areas, and in planning for evacuations or relief operations. Thus, the utility of foundational geospatial intelligence data is wide-ranging in the military landscape, proving to be a vital tool for operational success.

Examples of Foundation geospatial-intelligence data

Afghanistan War (2001-2014): In this prolonged military conflict, foundation geospatial-intelligence data was massively used by the U.S. Military and NATO forces to understand the country’s geographical terrain, locations of potential terrorist hideouts, transport routes and urban environments. The military utilized this data to plan their missions accordingly and predict possible enemy activities or ambushes.

Operation Enduring Freedom – Philippines (2002-2015): The U.S. Military used foundation geospatial-intelligence data in the Philippines to locate and disrupt terrorist groups operating mostly on Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago. Geospatial data helped in mapping the thick forest regions, understanding the geography of the islands, and for accurate delivery of logistic support to the troops located in remote areas.

Operation Desert Storm – Gulf War (1990-1991): Foundation geospatial-intelligence data was significantly used during this operation in order to map out enemy troop locations, plan air strikes and ground troop maneuvers, as well as to precisely locate and hit missile installations, military facilities, and infrastructure items of strategic importance. This operation displayed how crucial geospatial data can be for a technologically advanced military force to execute detailed, highly coordinated, and successful attacks.

FAQ: Foundation Geospatial-Intelligence Data

What is Foundation Geospatial Intelligence Data?

Foundation Geospatial Intelligence (GEOINT) Data refers to the baseline geospatial information used to support operations, analysis, and decision making in various military, intelligence, and civil applications.

How is Foundation Geospatial Intelligence Data collected?

The data is collected from various sources such as satellite imagery, aerial photography, topographic maps, and other geospatial sources. It is then analyzed and processed to produce geospatial intelligence.

What is the importance of Foundation Geospatial Intelligence Data?

Foundation Geospatial Intelligence Data is crucial in military operations as it provides essential information about the geospatial characteristics of an area. This information supports the planning and execution of military operations, disaster response, and other applications.

Who uses Foundation Geospatial Intelligence Data?

Foundation Geospatial Intelligence Data is predominantly used by defense agencies, intelligence organizations, emergency services, and civil authorities. However, it is also utilized in various fields such as environmental science, urban planning, and logistics.

How is the accuracy of Foundation Geospatial Intelligence Data ensured?

The accuracy of Foundation Geospatial Intelligence Data is ensured by cross-verifying the information with other intelligence sources, ground truthing, and continuous data updates. Quality control measures are also in place to ensure the reliability of the data.

Related Military Operation Terms

• Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
• Imagery Intelligence (IMINT)
• Geospatial Metadata
• Satellite Imagery Analysis
• Geodetic Survey Data

Sources for More Information

• Office of the Director of National Intelligence: This is the U.S. government agency overseeing all intelligence organizations, including those dealing with geospatial intelligence.
• National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency: As the main organization working with geospatial intelligence in the U.S. military, it has detailed information on Foundation Geospatial-Intelligence Data.
• U.S. Geological Survey: While not a military organization, the USGS provides necessary groundwork for understanding geospatial intelligence, including foundational geospatial data.
• U.S. Army: The army makes extensive use of geospatial intelligence. Their site may provide insight into the practical applications of Foundation Geospatial-Intelligence Data.