Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC)

The Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC) program is designed to enhance the Navy's Battle Force Anti-Air Warfare capabilities by integrating all AAW sensors into a unified, real-time composite track picture. This integration supports integrated fire control by distributing sensor data from various units, including USMC Command Control Units, US Navy Ships, and Aircraft, across a high data-rate network. The system is resistant to jamming and provides precise gridlocking between units. The CEC Program Office oversees development efforts across different services with resources allocated for their respective combat systems.

The CEC Increment II project builds on the capabilities established in Increment I by expanding network capacity and integrating new sensor types and data sources. This includes surface search radars and passive detection sensors, enhancing situational awareness and integrated fire control across multiple warfare domains. The project aims to accommodate more cooperating units and provide a robust situational awareness picture with assured communications for Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD), surface warfare, and electronic mission warfare domains.

Key components of the CEC include the Data Distribution System (DDS) and the Cooperative Engagement Processor (CEP), which work together to encode, distribute, and process sensor data into a high-quality track for combat systems. The program also incorporates a Signal Data Processor (SDP) approach to meet objectives related to size, weight, cost, power, and cooling while supporting interoperability improvements. Additionally, the Network Enabled Electronic Defense System (NEEDS) modifies CEC software to enhance electronic warfare capabilities.

The program addresses cybersecurity challenges by implementing measures to mitigate vulnerabilities in cyberspace. Increment II developments include integrating new sensor types into the network and enhancing connectivity for over-land air defense systems against emerging threats like land attack cruise missiles. The acquisition strategy involves competitive contracts for various components such as the Signal Data Processor Next Phase II and Capability Group 4 development efforts.