Command, Control, Communication, and Computers (C4) - STRATCOM

The Command, Control, Communication, and Computers (C4) - STRATCOM program focuses on enhancing the capabilities of the Nuclear Command, Control, and Communications (NC3) Enterprise Center under USSTRATCOM. Its primary objective is to oversee and monitor operations and security within the NC3 architecture. This involves developing tools to assess operational risks as adversaries gain capabilities to disrupt these systems. The program supports enterprise operations, systems engineering, and assessment activities to ensure readiness and address potential threats.

A significant component of this initiative is the Strategic Mission Assurance Database System (SMADS), which plays a crucial role in supporting the Defense Critical Infrastructure Program. SMADS provides an operations support-focused capability that leverages built-in tools and data from the Department of Defense and Department of Homeland Security. It helps anticipate, analyze, and assess national, strategic, and operational impacts associated with the loss or disruption of critical systems. SMADS also supports classified continuity responsibilities directed by the Office of the Secretary of Defense and Joint Staff.

The program emphasizes research and development efforts through initiatives like the NC3 Enterprise Center REACH. This initiative aims to establish a collaborative network capability for testing, demonstration, and prototyping in a secure environment. Additionally, there are plans for an NC3 Network Sensor Demonstration to enhance network security visibility. These efforts are designed to inform future architectures through technology evaluation and experimentation.

This program is part of a broader strategy to maintain and modernize NC3 systems through digital engineering capabilities. It involves collaboration with various services to explore new technologies in virtual environments while capturing metrics that identify system problems before they impact operations. The approach includes utilizing existing contracts for equipment and software procurement while encouraging competitive contracts for projects funded through DCIP.