(4) Paragraph 4 - Comparison of Courses of Action. The purpose of paragraph 4 of the signal estimate is
to evaluate the importance of the critical factors indicated in the analysis of situation and courses of action. The
primary consideration in comparing the various courses of action is that signal facilities will be deployed to
provide command and control of the tactical operation. The following are factors that may be considered as
advantages and disadvantages:
(a) Advantages.
Economy of personnel and facilities. The economical use of personnel and facilities may be
considered a definite advantage if the tactical requirements are fulfilled and there are reserve
resources. Such economy provides uncommitted personnel and facilities that may be
committed to ensure continuous operation over extended periods of time in a highly fluid
situation.
Location of signal facilities. The selection of sites that will meet the requirements of the
tactical situation and minimize the effectiveness of enemy air, ground, and electronic warfare
attack may be considered an advantage.
Indigenous facilities. The capture and employment of indigenous facilities may be an
advantage when such employment will reduce construction time, reduce facility
requirements, minimize effectiveness of enemy electronic warfare, or provide improved
security facilities.
(b) Disadvantages.
Commitment of all personnel and facilities. Any course of action that calls for the full
commitment of personnel and facilities in the early phases of the operation would be a
disadvantage, and such a commitment should be carefully evaluated. Such commitment of
signal personnel and facilities may prevent the establishment of new facilities or the
displacement of echelons of the command posts as the tactical operation progresses. Further,
the efficiency of personnel committed for long periods of time will decrease, and the system
they operate will deteriorate.
Systems highly vulnerable to electronic warfare. If the facilities of a signal system are
located where they are highly susceptible to enemy electronic warfare, they may be disrupted
and fail to provide command and control during critical phases of the operation. This type of
situation would be a disadvantage.
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