--Network Sciences International Technology Alliance

The U. S. Army has been exploring mechanisms of improved research collaboration with the UK (and other allies) that would better involve our respective industrial and academic communities. Based on this experience, and noting our joint national commitment with the UK to increase the mutual value of collaboration, we are currently involved in preliminary discussions with the UK Ministry of Defence on a new bilateral cooperative technology con cept called an International Technology Alliance (ITA). We envision that this would bring together government, industry and academia in tackling some of the fundamental science underpinning the complex information network issues that will be such a vital facet of future coalition military operations. Fundamental research is sought in network theory, network security for highly mobile ad hoc networks, sensor and information fusion, and distributed coalition decision making. Officials from both nations are currently exploring the ITA concept, with an aspiration to release detailed information early in 2005. Subject to national approvals, consortia of industry and academia from both nations will then be invited to propose in co nnection with the program. During the U S Army Science Conference being held at the end of November, 2004, (www.asc2004.com), US and UK representatives intend to make a broad statement concerning the joint aspirations for the program. This announcement is to make interested organiza tions aware of this potential initiative and to encourage involvement in this opportunity.