Battlefield Airborne Control Node (BACN)

The Battlefield Airborne Communication Node (BACN) program is a specialized Air Force initiative designed to enhance battlefield communications through airborne platforms. The primary goal of BACN is to provide a flexible, long-endurance, and responsive airborne communications capability that can bridge voice and data networks across diverse operational environments. This capability is crucial for enabling beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) communications, facilitating real-time information sharing, and improving situational awareness for deployed forces. BACN supports the Agile Combat Employment (ACE) concept, allowing rapid deployment and employment in austere or contested environments.

One of the key objectives of the BACN program is the procurement and integration of the Rapidly Deployable Payload Control Element (RD-PCE). The RD-PCE consists of modular, palletized equipment that includes power generators, secure connectivity, lightweight mobile shelters, HVAC systems, radios, antennas, Tactical Common Data Link equipment, and ancillary hardware. The modular nature of RD-PCE allows for tailored configurations to meet the specific needs of each deployment and mission set. This enhances worldwide deployability and operational flexibility for Combatant Commanders in any Area of Responsibility.

The BACN airborne payload is managed via ground stations composed of multiple support elements, specifically the Payload Control Element - Launch (PCE-L) and Payload Control Element - Mission (PCE-M). These control elements are responsible for launching, managing, and securing the BACN payload during operations. The procurement focus for recent fiscal years has shifted from shelter equipment to more modular and palletized solutions. This reflects a strategic emphasis on rapid deployment and adaptability in the field.

Within the BACN budget line, the Tactical Data Networks Enterprise is a significant subcomponent responsible for the hardware procurement and integration necessary to support BACN's tactical data link gateway and relay functions. The Tactical Data Networks Enterprise ensures that BACN can serve as a bridge between disparate communication systems, translating and relaying voice and data across various platforms and networks. This capability is essential for joint and coalition operations where interoperability is a critical requirement.

Funding for BACN and its associated components is documented under several Program Elements. The budget justification indicates that recent fiscal years do not require additional funds for RD-PCE procurement, suggesting that previous investments have met current operational requirements. The cost analysis reflects minimal procurement activity for the coming fiscal year, with a small allocation for hardware under the Tactical Data Networks Enterprise, and no new requests for the following year.

The justification for the BACN program centers on its ability to support rapid, secure, and reliable communications in dynamic and challenging operational environments. By investing in modular, deployable control elements and advanced airborne communication payloads, the Air Force aims to maintain a technological edge in battlefield communications and support the evolving needs of joint and coalition forces. The program's objectives align with broader Department of Defense priorities for network-centric warfare, interoperability, and agile force employment.