COCOM Mobile Command and Control Centers (MCCCs)

The Mobile Command Center Systems (MC2S) program, as outlined in Program Element (PE) 0305903F, is a new Air Force initiative beginning in Fiscal Year 2026. The primary goal of MC2S is to develop and enhance mobile platforms that deliver Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence (C4I) services to USNORTHCOM, specifically in support of its Defense Support to Civil Authorities (DSCA) mission. This program is categorized under Budget Activity 7, Operational Systems Development, which focuses on upgrading fielded systems or those approved for full-rate production.

The MC2S line item aims to address emerging operational requirements by enabling continuous operations, maintenance, and sustainment of mobile command center capabilities. In FY 2026, the program will conduct several program development studies. These studies will focus on four specific program requirements, the outcomes of an ongoing trade-space study, and a high-priority need identified by a Combatant Command (COCOM). The studies will analyze and propose solutions for zero-power loss, automated start-up, network fail-over, and data consolidation within the mobile command center architecture.

A key objective for FY 2026 is the development of automated processes that ensure rapid and reliable activation of the mobile command center systems. This platform automated start-up capability is critical for ensuring that command and control operations can be initiated quickly in response to emergent situations, minimizing downtime and supporting mission continuity.

Another significant element is the development and upgrade of battle management shelters. The goal is to enhance the physical and digital infrastructure that houses the command and control functions. These shelters must be robust, secure, and capable of supporting advanced C4I technologies, ensuring that personnel can operate effectively in a variety of operational environments.

The mission support shelters, equipment, and software line is focused on providing the necessary support infrastructure and tools for mission execution. This includes the development of specialized equipment and software that enhance the operational effectiveness of the mobile command centers, supporting both routine and contingency operations.

The mission essential equipment, equipment, and software component is designed to ensure that all critical systems and applications required for command and control are available, reliable, and interoperable. This includes efforts to consolidate data, improve network resilience through fail-over capabilities, and standardize system architectures to facilitate future upgrades and integration with other defense systems.

The acquisition strategy for MC2S emphasizes re-architecting battle management and communication capabilities by leveraging agile software and hardware engineering solutions. The program will also focus on modifying existing capabilities to standardize the weapons system, ensuring interoperability and sustainability. MC2S is intended to provide USNORTHCOM with a modernized, resilient, and rapidly deployable command center capability to support both military and civil authorities in a range of operational scenarios.