AFSPECWAR - TACP

The AFSPECWAR - TACP program, as outlined in Program Element (PE) 0207418F, is a Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) initiative under the Air Force's Operational Systems Development budget activity. The primary goal of this program is to advance training and rehearsal capabilities for Special Warfare airmen, specifically those involved in Tactical Air Control Party (TACP), Special Tactics Combat Control Team (CCT), Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC), and Air Support Operations Center (ASOC) operations. The program seeks to ensure these personnel meet and maintain rigorous training and qualification standards, which are increasingly difficult to achieve through live-fly aircraft alone.

A central objective of the program is the development and enhancement of the Joint Terminal Control Training and Rehearsal System (JTC TRS). This system is designed to provide a high-fidelity, Distributed Mission Operations (DMO)-capable simulator that supports initial, mission qualification, continuation, and currency training for JTACs and Special Tactics personnel. The JTC TRS is essential for meeting U.S. and Partner Nation Memorandum of Agreement requirements for JTAC certification and proficiency. It offers a simulation capability that supplements live field training and sorties with realistic battlefield, disaster, and humanitarian relief scenarios.

Another key component is the Joint Theater Air-Ground Simulator System (JTAGSS), which continues the ASOC simulation trainer efforts initiated in 2009. JTAGSS complements the JTC TRS by providing a comprehensive constructive simulation environment for integrated, networked training and mission rehearsal. Its objectives include developing battle staff skills for TACP, CCT, JTAC, ASOC, and Special Operations Forces (SOF), focusing on vertical and horizontal command and control (C2) communications, coordination, and joint fires integration. The system is designed to address the shortfall in live training events and exercises, ensuring mandated readiness requirements are met.

The program also emphasizes the integration of advanced technologies and interoperability standards. Planned developments include the modernization of JTC TRS and JTAGSS devices, the implementation of an AI-based Random Asset Manager/Role Player capability, and the integration of Joint Air Ground Integration Center (JAGIC) C2 capabilities into JTAGSS. These efforts aim to enhance the realism and effectiveness of training, improve simulation fidelity, and ensure systems remain sustainable and cyber-resilient by transitioning to modular, open system architectures.

Funding for the program in FY 2024 and FY 2025 supports engineering change proposals for the TACP-Close Air Support System (CASS), modernization of Project Jericho JTC TRS, and continued development of digital and AI-enabled capabilities. The program also addresses Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortage (DMSMS) issues by removing end-of-life software and hardware and implementing common architecture requirements and standards. Civilian pay expenses required for program management and execution are included as necessary, though no expenditures are forecasted for FY 2024 or FY 2025 within this element.

The acquisition strategy for JTC TRS involved a full and open competitive source selection, resulting in a single contract for production and sustainment, including options for additional production, emulated military equipment management, cybersecurity, and logistics support. For JTAGSS, the strategy is to field advanced technology demonstration units for proof of concept and technology validation, followed by a competitive contract award for full development and deployment. The use of Government or Commercial Off-the-Shelf (GOTS/COTS) technologies reduces technical and schedule risks and broadens competition among training technology providers.