In 200, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics (USD(AT & L)) directed the Defense Science Board (DSB) to study the precision targeting of air-delivered munitions. The results of the 2001 Task Force were well-received within Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD), and in June 2003, USD(AT & L) directed the DSB to study the closely related topic of "integrated fire support in the battlespace." In this new study the 2003 Task Force applied an approach and methodology similar to the 2001 effort but focused instead on ground-based fires, sea-based fires, and close-air support. As directed in its terms of reference (TOR), the 2003 Task Force assessed the following: ̂ The adequacy of current and proposed munitions, ̂ The timeliness and accuracy of ISR systems, ̂ the adequacy of battlefield C(exp 3) systems, and ̂ Impediments to integrated fires. From October 2003 through April 2004, the Task Force met monthly to gather information.

Papers originally presented at the conference "Analysis for Peace Operations", held at the Lester B. Pearson Canadian International Peacekeeping Training Centre April 7-9, 1998.

This report stems from a congressional request for an independent report about the U.S. Department of Defense s capabilities for joint analysis and ways to improve them. Congressional concerns largely involved the activity called support for strategic analysis (SSA) and whether to revise it. The report recommends making fundamental revisions to the overall planning construct to which SSA contributes."