C4ISR Equipment

The LI 8120 - C4ISR Equipment line item in the Navy's FY2026 budget supports the modernization and procurement of Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) systems for Navy Expeditionary Forces (NEF). The overarching goal is to enhance operational effectiveness and situational awareness for both Active Component (AC) and Reserve Component (RC) units. This program is managed under the appropriations for Other Procurement, Navy, specifically within Personnel & Command Support Equipment. It aims to ensure service readiness by delivering advanced communication and command capabilities to expeditionary units.

Navy Expeditionary C4I - C2 Modernization (Active Component) focuses on the procurement, integration, and fielding of Expeditionary Deployable Nodes (EDN), Rapid Response Kits (RRK), and Expeditionary Tactical Assault Kits (ETAK) for active duty forces. These systems are designed to provide scalable communication solutions small, medium, and large scale tailored to mission requirements. The objective is to converge NEF units to a common shore-based C4I baseline and streamline cybersecurity through a unified Risk Management Framework (RMF) Authority to Operate (ATO). The program also ensures all Table of Allowance (TOA) equipment needs are met. Funding in FY2026 supports hardware procurement, assembly, production testing, and initial training for these systems.

Navy Expeditionary C4I - C2 Modernization (Reserve Component) mirrors the active component's objectives, extending similar capabilities to reserve forces. This includes procurement of EDNs, RRKs, ETAKs, and Secure Enclave Access Kits (SEAKIT, also known as CENTRIX-S Fly Away Kits), which facilitate secure coalition communications. The program ensures that reserve units are equipped to operate seamlessly alongside active forces, maintaining interoperability and readiness for joint and coalition operations. Funding is allocated for hardware procurement, integration, and testing, with priorities determined by quarterly Technical Review Boards.

Navy Expeditionary C4I - Tactical Radio Modernization encompasses several radio systems, including the AN/PRC-163, AN/PRC-167, and AN/PRC-171. The AN/PRC-163 Multi-Channel Handheld Radio enables real-time intelligence sharing from command to squad level, supporting SATCOM, Line-of-Sight (LOS), and Beyond Line-of-Sight (BLOS) networks, and adds full motion video capabilities for enhanced ISR missions. The AN/PRC-167 provides wideband and MUOS-ready connectivity for ground, vehicular, and airborne missions, supporting simultaneous multi-domain operations. The AN/PRC-171 offers non-CCI connectivity for ground-based tactical teams, supporting wideband MANET and resilient narrowband communications in contested environments. These procurements replace legacy radios and ensure NEF units have access to secure, reliable, and interoperable communications.

Navy Expeditionary C4I - Wideband Anti Jam Modem System (WAMS) is a new addition starting in FY2026, supporting the Navy's next-generation wideband satellite communications. WAMS will be integrated with multiband satellite terminals for communications over the Wideband Global SATCOM constellation, replacing legacy AC2 modems. As the Navy component of the Protected Anti-Jam Tactical SATCOM (PATS) Joint Program, WAMS is critical for maintaining resilient communications in contested environments and ensuring uninterrupted connectivity for expeditionary operations.

The budget also addresses Consolidated Prior Year Requirements and Deployable Mission Support Systems (DMSS) Kits, which provide additional support and hardware to meet previously identified needs and enhance mission support capabilities. These elements ensure that gaps from prior years are addressed and that NEF units have the necessary equipment to sustain operations.