Common Aviation Command and Control System (CAC2S)

The Common Aviation Command and Control System (CAC2S) is part of the Commandant of the Marine Corps Force Design initiative. It aims to equip the Aviation Combat Element with necessary hardware, software, equipment, and facilities for effective command, control, and coordination of aviation operations. This system supports the Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF), Naval forces, Joint Services, and Coalition Forces by integrating aviation command and control functions into an interoperable system. CAC2S enhances air control, situational awareness, sensor integration, Tactical Data Link integration, airspace and battle planning capabilities, and sensor netting integration through collaboration with the Marine Air Command and Control System's organic sensors.

CAC2S has replaced legacy systems in various Marine aviation agencies such as the Direct Air Support Center and Tactical Air Command Center. The current focus is on developing a Small Form Factor (SFF) variant to meet the needs of Expeditionary Advance Base Operations. This variant will maintain the capabilities of CAC2S Increment 1 while being more rapidly deployable with a lower signature. The SFF's adaptability is crucial for supporting Marine Littoral Regiments in Expeditionary Advance Base Operations.

In FY 2025, CAC2S will continue developing sensor netting interfaces with systems like the Ground/Air Task Oriented Radar and Medium Range Air Defense Radar to support Joint Integrated Air and Missile Defense. The program also aims to integrate Naval Integrated Fire Control capabilities and Net Enabled Weapons to extend Sea Shield capabilities. These developments are intended to enhance interoperability across services and improve fire control solutions by linking sensors and weapons.

Additionally, CAC2S will focus on upgrading Tactical Data Link compliance to align with current military standards for interoperability. The program will also transition its communications subsystems onto new platforms like the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to modernize command and control capabilities in line with evolving operational requirements and technological advancements.