Argos - Visualization Tool for Cyberspace Command and Control

Cyberwar is here. The information landscape is becoming as important as the physical world for commercial, social, and military applications. Being able to detect and monitor a cyberattack is necessary to defend our assets. Being able to respond to a cyberattack has additional merit. OR Concepts Applied (ORCA) proposes to develop Argos, innovative software that supports command and control of cyberspace operations for both defensive and offensive applications. We propose to develop a suite of tools to provide commanders and operators with cyber situation awareness (SA) and mechanisms to manage cyberspace assets. A key part of Argos is the attention devoted to visualization that enhances SA. In addition to the Argos tools themselves, there will also be a simulation environment that will support human factors testing and user interface optimization. As the USAF gears up for cyberwar, it is essential that we create tools that will help us field the most effective systems for cyber operations. BENEFIT: Technology, commerce, military operations, and even social interactions depend more and more on cyberspace, the world''s Internet infrastructure. Argos software for cyberspace visualization will benefit governments, businesses, and individuals. Defensive tools can foil cyberattacks and prevent adverse impacts. Thus there are significant opportunities for commercialization. If the U.S. decides that it needs to have offensive cyberspace capabilities, the tools envisioned in this proposal will be invaluable.