text: Chapter 2
  of staff, signal (G-6) has a thorough knowledge of the network architecture. This officer effectively identifies
  routing and connections to the enterprise-level network where required, planning for flexibility and
  redundancy for the tactical MPN, and supporting operations through multiple classification channels.
  Establishment of structures such as the CNOSC can assist in establishing and monitoring a diverse network.
  Determining the type, level, redundancy, and location of subject matter expertise is often among the most
  critical considerations. (Refer to JP 3-16 for details for establishing communications.)
  Assistant Chief of Staff, Information Operations (G-39)
  2-92. Contributing partners have varying information operations capabilities, understanding, doctrine, and
  policies to coordinate, synchronize, and deconflict. The G-39 knows ways contributing partners define and
  perceive information operations in general. This officer considers how applicable cultural lenses, similarities
  and differences, and the way operations are conducted aid in developing common and integrated solutions
  and risk management.
  COMMANDER’S PERSONAL AND SPECIAL STAFFS
  2-93. The commander’s personal and special staff groups includes the following:
  • Political advisor.
  • Translators and interpreters.
  Political Advisor
  2-94. Commanders routinely work directly with political authorities in the region. The commander
  establishes a close, efficient, and effective relationship with the political advisor. The political advisor—
  • Works with the commander and helps the national government create policies that meet
  multinational objectives it can conduct.
  • Acts as the principal contact with ambassadors and informs the appropriate diplomatic personnel of
  multinational force plans in the AO.
  • Supplies information about policy of the diplomatic agencies relevant to the operation.
  Translators and Interpreters
  2-95. Translators and interpreters are critical to multinational operations mission success. Communication
  with the local populace and multinational forces is hindered without these professionals. Language barriers
  cause difficulties when working with other armies and the host nation. Language problems make it difficult
  to sustain a rapid decision cycle. Even common tasks such as sharing intelligence may require translation
  before a commander shares it. This slows the development of plans and execution. Language capability
  speeds command, reduces confusion, and contributes to mutual respect. Forces exchange command
  information and other information to work together successfully. Few translators have the technical expertise
  and depth of understanding to be fully understood while crossing both language and doctrinal boundaries.
  2-96. Planners consider liaison officers, foreign area officers, and language-capable personnel to fill these
  positions. Planners determine requirements for language-trained personnel early in the planning cycle.
  Translators and interpreters are scarce and require a long lead time to deploy. These language-qualified
  personnel require a training period to become familiar with technical terms and procedures of the
  organization. Language is more than the direct translation of words. Word choice and mannerisms also
  convey information.
  2-97. Translator or interpreter requirements do not exist only in liaison teams or headquarters elements.
  Stability operations and logistics functions need linguists or interpreters to coordinate with local authorities,
  civilian transportation coordinators, dislocated civilian and relief centers, medical staffs, legal offices, and
  local police forces. A military translator translates a foreign language into English within a command post,
  while an interpreter interactively works to facilitate communication between a foreign party and a command
  representative. Commanders consider the physical location for interpreters and functional support. Some
  situations may require digital systems to assist with translating. Employing digital systems, operators can
  provide face-to-face digital communication between mission partner representatives and speed of translation.