Combat System Integration

The Combat System Integration program (PE 0603582N) is a Navy Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) initiative focused on ensuring that U.S. Navy ships and strike forces operate with fully integrated and interoperable combat, command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C5ISR) systems. Established in response to persistent challenges in integrating new and legacy systems within deploying Strike Forces, the program's overarching goal is to identify and mitigate interoperability shortfalls before systems are fielded. This approach reduces operational risk and enhances mission effectiveness.

The program is managed by the Commander, Naval Sea Systems Command (COMNAVSEA), who oversees system certification policy and guidance, certifies platforms for interoperability, and acts as the administrative and execution agent for modernization processes and councils. The program supports the Navy's C5ISR Modernization Policy and is executed in accordance with several key Navy and joint instructions. These efforts ensure that certification and integration align with fleet operational requirements and modernization priorities.

Within the program, Navigation System Certification (NAVCERT) is a critical pillar. NAVCERT ensures that the integrated navigation suites on Navy ships provide accurate and timely navigation data to all consumers, including warfare and weapons systems. Certification is required at regular intervals and after significant system changes, with testing verifying the accuracy and distribution of navigation data. The program plans to conduct multiple NAVCERTs in upcoming fiscal years, leveraging modernization periods to minimize costs and ensure that navigation systems meet safety and mission requirements.

Another major component is the Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Combat Systems, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C5ISR) Modernization Process (C5IMP). C5IMP validates the maturity of new and upgraded systems before shipboard installation, assesses technical and schedule risks, and manages configuration control for a large number of active Battle Force ships. The process includes monthly baseline locking events, reviews, and the management of thousands of proposed baseline changes each year. It also supports the Navy Command and Control, Communications, Computers, Combat Systems, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Modernization Council (NCMC), facilitating coordination among fleet commanders and technical authorities.

The Interoperability Certification and Assessment pillar provides independent assessments of strike group warfare systems using the Navy's Distributed Integration and Interoperability Assessment Capability (DIIAC). This infrastructure enables comprehensive interoperability testing prior to operational use, supporting early identification of integration issues. The program maintains and updates the Strike Group Interoperability Capabilities & Limitations (SGI C&L) database and produces Tactical Information Coordinator Technical Aids (TIC TECHAIDS), which inform operators of system capabilities and limitations. The program conducts major interoperability test events and provides updated documentation and aids for deploying strike groups, independent ships, and coalition partners.

The Warfare Systems Certification (WSCERT) function certifies that modernized warfare systems are ready for operational deployment, ensuring they meet performance specifications and are fully integrated within the strike force. This includes technical assessments, risk analyses, and the development of operational risk assessments when evaluation criteria are not met. The program conducts certification events for numerous ships, analyzing technical and operational readiness across multiple assessment areas.