Ship Communications Automation

Ship Communications Automation aims to support the Navy's shipboard communications automation needs by funding various programs such as Automated Digital Network System (ADNS), Legacy Network Operation Rolling Tide (ORT), Tactical Messaging, Shore Tactical Assured Command and Control (STACC), and Piers / Enterprise Pier Connectivity Architecture (EPCA). The ADNS program provides cyber-hardened, afloat-to-shore wide area networking capabilities, leveraging commercial off-the-shelf/government off-the-shelf equipment and network protocols. Legacy Network Cyber Resiliency/ORT focuses on securing government databases and improving security protocols for Navy computer networks. EPCA aims to modernize pier IT infrastructure to provide expanded Non-Classified Internet Protocol Router Network (NIPRNET)/Secret Internet Protocol Router Network (SIPRNET) capability to meet Fleet Commander stated requirements. Tactical Messaging provides exchange of Joint Top Secret and below Official Information of high precedence Command and Control between ashore sites and afloat platforms. STACC consolidates, replaces, and modernizes the ashore wide area network services infrastructure with a cyber-hardened, warfighting resilient hardware, software, and enterprise services infrastructure to enable information warfare from and within the tactical domain.

The specific objectives of these programs include enhancing cyber resiliency, improving network security protocols, providing secure communication capabilities for afloat units in contested battlespace environments, modernizing IT infrastructure for piers worldwide, ensuring seamless interoperability between different messaging systems for Navy platforms, and delivering command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence capabilities that provide tactical connectivity through an ashore network infrastructure. These efforts are aimed at supporting the Navy's mission by providing secure and resilient communication networks that enable effective command and control of deployed forces while ensuring interoperability with coalition forces during operations.