C3I Applied Research

The C3I Applied Research program is a U.S. Army research and development initiative focused on advancing mid-to-long term tactical Command, Control, Communications, and Intelligence (C3I) capabilities. The program's overarching goal is to establish technical solutions that enhance the resiliency, survivability, operational effectiveness, mobility, and readiness of ground forces. This is achieved through applied research in areas such as networking, cyber, electronic warfare, Positioning, Navigation and Timing (PNT), space, and persistent surveillance. The outputs inform advanced research and technology transition efforts in line with the Army Modernization Strategy and Department of Defense (DoD) priorities.

Network Enabling University Applied Research leverages academic research to develop intelligent, secure, and self-healing networks, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and alternatives to GPS for robust tactical communications. The project supports university-led investigations into predictive intelligent network agents, distributed hybrid ML, adaptable network systems, and resilient information pathways for cyber-physical systems. It also supports research into novel PNT technologies for GPS-denied environments, aiming to enhance communications, force tracking, and autonomous maneuver capabilities for Army operations.

Network Vulnerability/Effectiveness Assessment Methods develops analytical methodologies to characterize and assess Army network and communication platforms against electromagnetic warfare (EW) and cyber threats. The project focuses on cross-domain analysis to identify vulnerabilities and harden systems early in their development. Key objectives include maturing analytic tools for Cyber Electromagnetic Activity (CEMA) effects, validating assessment methodologies in live and simulated environments, and developing experimental techniques to reduce vulnerabilities in complex network configurations before fielding.

Intelligent Environmental Battlefield Awareness Applied Technology and Persistent Geophysical Sensing-Infrasound Applied Technology aim to enhance situational awareness and mission planning through advanced geospatial, hydrologic, and environmental sensing. Intelligent Environmental Battlefield Awareness develops tools for high-fidelity battlefield mapping, predictive GIS, and environmental modeling, including Arctic operations and post-disturbance terrain analysis. Persistent Geophysical Sensing-Infrasound focuses on passive, persistent, non-line-of-sight sensing using geophysical and infrasound arrays for deep sensing, enabling wide-area reconnaissance and rapid detection of battlefield events such as explosions or infrastructure threats.

Quantum PNT & Radio Frequency Sensing investigates quantum-based sensors to improve the accuracy and resiliency of PNT and electromagnetic field sensing, independent of GPS. The project develops compact, ruggedized quantum sensors for integration into Army systems, supporting secure and precise navigation and situational awareness. Similarly, Assured PNT Enabling Applied Technology explores space-enabled and high-altitude sensing for deep sensing and counter-surveillance, focusing on actionable PNT situational awareness and innovative uses of space-based data.

Distributed Multi-Agent Reasoning and Data Fusion is a new start in FY 2026, supporting research on distributed AI reasoning networks and data fusion to autonomously identify and assess multi-domain tactical Windows of Opportunity. The project aims to enable air and ground agents to rapidly exploit operational opportunities while remaining resilient to adversarial disruptions, using advanced reasoning, fusion, and networking algorithms.

Other projects, such as Subterranean Detection and Monitoring Applied Technology and Sensing in Contested Environments Technologies, focus on developing detection and monitoring solutions for subterranean threats and biological hazards, enhancing soldier survivability in complex and denied environments. Additional efforts include Enabling Long Standoff 3D Technology, which develops low-SWAP lidar and sensor systems for high-resolution, long-range 3D mapping and targeting, and Understanding Environment as a Threat Technology, which advances mission planning software for identifying and mitigating industrial or environmental threats. Congressional interest items have provided targeted funding for sensor development to detect chemical and biological threats. These projects address emerging and future threats by advancing the Army's C3I capabilities through applied research, technology maturation, and integration of innovative solutions from academia, government, and industry.