Army Tactical Command & Control Hardware & Software

The Army Tactical Command & Control Hardware & Software program element (PE 0604818A) is a comprehensive Army initiative focused on the research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) of modernized command and control (C2) systems. The overarching goal is to enable the Army's Next Generation Command and Control (NGC2) strategy, which aims to enhance multi-domain operations, improve interoperability, and accelerate decision-making through advanced technology integration. The program supports a broad portfolio of projects that address hardware, software, network infrastructure, applications, and operational environments. This ensures seamless, secure, and resilient mission command capabilities across all Army echelons.

Common Hardware Systems (CHS) is a mandated Army strategic source for acquiring and sustaining flexible, cost-effective, and simplified non-developmental IT solutions. CHS integrates emerging commercial technologies onto the Army's Converged Mission Command Network and supports procurement and sustainment for the Army, Reserve, National Guard, and other DoD and federal agencies. The program provides technical support, system engineering, lifecycle management, and rapid hardware procurement, enabling continuous modernization and risk-managed acquisition strategies. CHS also strengthens the cybersecurity supply chain and supports initiatives like the Defense Innovation Unit's Blue List drone procurement.

Centralized Technical Support Facility (CTSF) serves as the Army's primary test and certification facility for system-of-systems interoperability. CTSF executes Army Interoperability Certification (AIC) testing, configuration management, and supports the LandWarNet Baseline. Its mission includes planning, coordination, and execution of interoperability testing, cybersecurity posture assessments, and configuration management for tactical software baselines. CTSF operates a distributed test environment, leveraging federated sites to conduct integration and certification testing. This ensures that all C5ISR systems are interoperable and secure before fielding to operational units.

Army Tactical Command and Control Systems Engineering (C2 Sys Eng) provides system-of-systems engineering, integration, acquisition management, and technical support to ensure interoperability and affordability within the PEO C3N portfolio. This project supports the Army Unified Network Plan, Multi-Domain Operations, and Joint All Domain Command and Control (JADC2) by developing network architectures, integration strategies, and security solutions. It emphasizes integration testing, cybersecurity, and the development of engineering tools and standards to support evolving Army and DoD requirements.

Unified Network Technology Transition and Integration (UNTTI) is an RDT&E initiative focused on developing and demonstrating transport-agnostic, high-capacity, and resilient tactical communications for expeditionary operations. UNTTI supports the maturation and validation of technologies such as secure cellular, gateway automation, and transport modernization, with the goal of increasing network throughput, resiliency, and survivability. The program also prioritizes user training and the integration of new capabilities into the Army's tactical network. This supports the transition of prototypes into operational use.

NGC2 Data and Application Layer Projects (EJ6 & EK9) represent the core of the Army's modernization of C2 systems. Project EJ6 (Tactical Enhancement) focuses on the Data Layer, delivering standardized, seamless data access and integration across warfighting applications, leveraging DevSecOps and AI/ML for rapid capability development. Project EK9 (Tactical Network Operations and Management) addresses the Applications Layer, developing and integrating critical warfighting function applications and unified network operations tools. Both projects utilize continuous integration and delivery (CI/CD) approaches, competitive prototyping, and rigorous test and evaluation to ensure rapid fielding of interoperable, secure, and user-centric C2 capabilities.

Additional projects such as Mobile/Handheld Computing Environment (M/HHCE) and Expeditionary Army Command Post further support the Army's modernization strategy. M/HHCE (Nett Warrior) provides situational awareness and C2 for dismounted forces through secure smart devices and integrated software, supporting AI/ML and human-machine interface development. The Expeditionary Army Command Post project enhances command post survivability, mobility, and modularity, supporting on-the-move operations and advanced networking. These efforts ensure the Army's C2 infrastructure remains adaptive, resilient, and capable of supporting future operational requirements.