NC3 Integration

The NC3 Integration program, managed by the Air Force, focuses on enhancing the Nuclear Command, Control, and Communications (NC3) system, which is vital for national nuclear deterrence. This initiative aims to integrate legacy systems with ongoing and future capabilities to ensure the effectiveness of the Air Force's NC3 Weapon System (WS), designated as AN/USQ-225. The Air Force Nuclear Weapon Center NC3 Integration Directorate (AFNWC/NC) plays a crucial role in this effort by overseeing the integration of current and future NC3 capabilities across the Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC).

A primary objective of the NC3 Integration program is to sustain, modernize, and recapitalize the nuclear enterprise through comprehensive management of weapon system architecture and configuration. This includes conducting health assessments, risk management, supply chain supportability, and system testing. The program also emphasizes digital engineering practices such as modeling, simulation, and visualization to address capability gaps and explore potential solutions.

The program supports various initiatives like Joint All Domain Command and Control (JADC2) and Advanced Battle Management System (ABMS) to ensure synchronization with broader Air Force modernization efforts. It involves collaboration with U.S. Strategic Command, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, and Air Force Global Strike Command to align with Nuclear Deterrence Operations requirements. Additionally, it focuses on developing new capabilities while maintaining existing ones to meet future mission threats.

Efforts under this program include expanding communication spectrum testbeds, conducting predictive analyses of weapon system impacts, and implementing material management controls. The program also aims to enhance integration and interoperability within the NC3 WS by developing operational performance criteria documents and establishing authoritative intelligence community analyses for high-altitude electromagnetic pulse (HEMP). These activities are supported through a combination of competitively awarded contracts and collaborations with research centers and industry partners.