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Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow: Facts and Misconceptions
The Tactical Exploitation System-Forward (TESFWD) is an integrated Tactical Exploitation of National Capabilities (TENCAP) System, the lineage of which can be traced back to the Modernized Imagery Exploitation System (MIES), the Enhanced Tactical Radar Correlator (ETRAC), and the Advanced Electronic Processing and Dissemination System (AEPDS). The MIES received and processed National imagery data. The ETRAC system processed Advanced Synthetic Aperture Radar data from theater intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance platforms, while the AEPDS was responsible for receiving and processing theater and nationally derived Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) data. All three were stand-alone systems, serving as pre-processors for the All Source Analysis System.
The Army began fielding the TES-FWD during the early part of this decade, as a Corps and Echelons above Corps system used to support Corps and Theater Commander's priority intelligence requirements (PIR). The TES-FWD was built to merge the functions of the MIES, ETRAC, and AEPDS into a single system. The system reduced tactical footprints and improved the ability to leverage National and theater level Imagery Intelligence (IMINT) and SIGINT data in support of warfighting capabilities.
The TES-FWD is recognized for its Electronic Intelligence (ELINT) capabilities. Providing ELINT support to commanders is critically important, as it provides details of adversary radar and Electronic, Missile, and Ground Orders of Battle. ELINT continues to provide the U.S. and its allies with situational awareness and indications and warnings (I&W) regarding threat countries' radar, missile, and ground force postures and intentions. ELINT supported conflicts such as the Cold War, Operations Desert Storm /Desert Shield, and will continue to support major conflicts of the future. The threat of a high intensity conflict still exists, and as in the planning and execution coordinated by Coalition Forces in support of the initial phase of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF), ELINT will always be one of the primary intelligence disciplines used to support major combat operations of the future.
Often overlooked are the TES' Communications Intelligence (COMINT) capabilities. Understanding the TES' full capabilities also allows commanders to leverage COMINT data. Today's conflicts-OIF, Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF), the Horn of Africa, the Philippines, and other theaters of interest-are COMINT orientated fights. Fully utilizing the TES' COMINT capabilities ensures commanders receive relevant and timely SIGINT in support of current conflicts.