Project Convergence

Revolutionizing Targeting in Large-Scale Combat Operations

By WO1 David Rico, John A. Robinson Eagle Writing Award Winner

Article published on: April 15, 2025 in the Field Artillery 2025 E-edition

Read Time: < 5 mins

In the context of Large-Scale Combat Operations (LSCO), where the division is the unit of action, tactical targeting plays a crucial role in ensuring operational success. Targeting officers (131A) are responsible for managing the targeting process, which involves the decide, detect, deliver and assess (D3A) framework (Department of the Army, 2023). However, traditional targeting methods have been limited by communication inefficiencies and delays in transferring data from sensors to shooters, leading to slower response times. As warfare grows increasingly dynamic, the need for rapid and precise targeting solutions has become paramount. Recognizing this challenge, Project Convergence (PC) enhances division-level targeting by integrating cutting-edge sensor-to-shooter technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) platform. These technologies dramatically accelerate target acquisition and engagement processes, ensuring tactical superiority in LSCO. By transforming targeting capabilities, Project Convergence positions the U.S. Army to outmaneuver adversaries and maintain tactical superiority in the rapidly evolving landscape of LSCO (Horning, 2023).

Integration of Sensor and Shooter in Project Convergence

The success of division-level targeting in LSCO is dependent on rapidly connecting sensors with shooters—a challenge that Project Convergence has addressed through significant technological advancements. Traditionally, systems faced significant bandwidth limitations that delayed the critical transfer of targeting data, hindering operational effectiveness. Project Convergence has modernized this process with innovations such as the JADC2 and tactical cloud reference implementation (TCRI), enabling real-time data sharing across domains. The integration of AI-driven tools, such as Firestorm, has further reduced the targeting cycle from hours to minutes, accelerating decision-making on the battlefield (Horning, 2023). Exercises like PC21 have showcased how automation and real-time data fusion can drastically shorten the sensor-to-shooter timeline and ensure that division commanders act swiftly and decisively (Reinier, 2020). For example, AI systems analyze sensor data from drones, satellites and ground units to deliver actionable intelligence to commanders within moments. By overcoming the limitations of traditional systems, Project Convergence ensures that divisions remain agile and tactically superior in the face of evolving threats (Stout, 2022). In addition to improving processing speed, Project Convergence’s cloud-based systems enhance interoperability between allied forces. This is particularly critical as LSCO increasingly involves coalition operations with NATO partners. Through integrated data platforms, allied forces can share real-time targeting data across borders, ensuring synchronized engagements and reduced risk of miscommunication during critical operations.

Impact of AI and Automation on the Targeting Process

AI and automation have revolutionized how divisions process and engage targets in LSCO. Historically, the targeting process relied on human operators to manually interpret sensor data, leading to reactive decisions and delays. Under Project Convergence, divisions employ predictive targeting, enabling proactive engagements based on enemy patterns. This capability, enhanced by platforms like Firestorm, provides commanders with real-time firing solutions that greatly reduce human error and response time (Horning, 2023). For example, AI can identify patterns in enemy behavior and predict future movements. This allows commanders to strategically position assets in anticipation of the enemy’s actions which not only improves tactical decision-making but also ensures that U.S. forces outmaneuver adversaries (Patterson, 2024). By automating large portions of the targeting process, Project Convergence reduces the cognitive load on 131A targeting officers, allowing them to focus on high-level decision-making rather than manual data analysis. AI-driven tools such as JADC2 and Firestorm further enhance targeting by integrating multiple data streams from land, sea, air and space, providing commanders with a comprehensive view of the battlefield. This comprehensive, multi-domain perspective offers them a detailed battlefield overview that enables more effective asset deployment and sustained dominance in contested environments. As warfare continues to evolve, AI and automation will remain key enablers of U.S. military superiority in LSCO.

Future Capabilities and Tactical Level Targeting in Division Operations

With the continuous evolvement of the advancement in technology, the future of division-level targeting promises even greater capabilities with the potential to revolutionize tactical operations in LSCO. Project Convergence is laying the groundwork for the integration of emerging technologies such as hypersonic weapons, drones and autonomous systems. These innovations will enhance the sensor-to-shooter cycle and allow divisions to both engage targets beyond traditional artillery or missile range and extend their operational reach (U.S. Army Futures Command, 2021). A promising development is the use of autonomous drones that gather real-time intelligence and even engage targets without direct human intervention. In heavily contested environments, such capabilities would allow divisions to monitor and deliver effects on targets without human intervention (Stout, 2022). When paired with AI’s predictive analytics, these autonomous platforms further solidify the Army’s tactical advantage in complex situations. Multi-Domain Operations (MDO) will also play a critical role in future targeting by coordinating efforts across land, air, sea, space and cyber domains. This holistic approach to targeting ensures that division-level operations remain agile and adaptable to the complexities of future conflicts (Reinier, 2020). As adversaries continue to develop countermeasures against U.S. military capabilities, the ability to rapidly deliver effects across multiple domains will be critical in maintaining operational superiority.

Advancing Targeting Through Project Convergence

In conclusion, the evolution of division-level targeting in LSCO is being fundamentally reshaped by Project Convergence and its emphasis on integrating advanced technologies. By creating a seamless link between sensors and shooters, Project Convergence accelerates the targeting process and enables 131A targeting officers to process and relay critical data in real-time. The use of AI and automation further increases the speed and accuracy of these processes which ensures that division commanders have the tools necessary to make quick, informed decisions on the battlefield. Looking ahead, the continued development of cutting-edge technologies, such as drones, autonomous systems and advanced communication network, promises to extend the reach and effectiveness of tactical targeting at the division level. As warfare becomes increasingly complex and dynamic, the ability to rapidly acquire, analyze and engage targets will remain a decisive factor in maintaining superiority over adversaries. Through Project Convergence, the U.S. Army is positioning itself at the forefront of technological innovation, certifying that divisions not only lead the fight in LSCO but do so with unmatched precision and effectiveness (Stout, 2022).

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