Intelligent decision support of Support and Stability Operations (SASO) through symbolic visualization

The Advanced Tactical Architecture for Combat Knowledge System (ATACKS, formerly known as ABATIS) has been designed as a visualization tool to support commander´s decision-making in a complex battlespace environment. ATACKS expands standard battlefield symbology by providing symbols for Stability and Support Operation (SASO) on three dimensional (3D) abstract battlespace terrains. Furthermore, it extends normal spatial visualization through process centered displays that seek to enhance the commander´s understanding of the situation by presenting qualitative data in novel formats. In addition, external decision support tools communicate with ATACKS, through an application program interface (API) that can allow communication over a network as well as between systems on differing operating systems. With this capability, ATACKS can serve as an integration point for intelligent aiding systems´