Comm Switching & Control Systems

The Comm & Elec Infrastructure Supt program is a critical line item in the Department of the Navy's FY 2026 budget, specifically under the Marine Corps' procurement for Communications and Electronics Equipment. The primary objective of this program is to ensure the modernization, sustainment, and operational readiness of emergency response and communications infrastructure across Marine Corps installations. This line item encompasses several key sub-programs, including the Consolidated Emergency Response System (CERS), Enterprise Land Mobile Radio (ELMR), and Base Telecommunications Infrastructure (BTI). Each supports distinct but interrelated goals for command, control, and emergency management.

The Consolidated Emergency Response System (CERS) is designed to standardize and modernize Emergency Dispatch Centers for the Marine Corps. The FY 2026 request focuses on upgrading Enhanced 911 (E911) and Next Generation 911 (NG911) systems that are reaching end-of-life. The goal is to prevent cybersecurity risks and maintain critical alerting and dispatching capabilities for first responders. CERS integrates Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD), Fire Station Alerting (FSA), and Mobile Data Computers (MDC) for vehicles, supporting both day-to-day and all-hazard emergency operations. The program also funds training, certification, and material support for primary and alternate dispatch centers, both within the continental United States (CONUS) and overseas (OCONUS).

Enterprise Land Mobile Radio (ELMR) is focused on a technology refresh of Multi-Band Radios (MBR) and infrastructure at Marine Corps bases. ELMR is a digital, APCO Project 25 Trunked Radio System that provides reliable wireless communications for first responders, including police, fire, and emergency medical services. The refresh cycle ensures that equipment at bases and stations is replaced and modernized as it reaches end-of-life, supporting effective emergency response and interoperability. The program also covers fielding activities, training, inventory management, and onsite support to maintain operational readiness and compliance with public safety standards.

Base Telecommunications Infrastructure (BTI) is another significant component, with prior year investments supporting disaster recovery, unified capabilities, and dense wave division multiplexing. BTI ensures robust wired communications infrastructure at Marine Corps installations, supporting both emergency and routine operations. Allocations have been made for Defense Policy Review Initiative (DPRI) equipment in Guam and Okinawa, reflecting the strategic importance of these locations and the need for modern telecommunications to support new and existing facilities. BTI funding also addresses recovery from natural disasters, such as hurricanes, ensuring that telecommunications capabilities are quickly restored and resilient.

Defense Policy Review Initiative (DPRI) Equipment is targeted for the procurement, installation, and accreditation of ELMR systems in newly constructed facilities on Okinawa. This funding is essential to ensure that facilities scheduled for occupancy in FY 2027 are equipped with the necessary communications infrastructure to support mission requirements. The DPRI investments are time-sensitive, as delays in equipment installation can impact facility occupancy and have broader political and cost implications. The DPRI funding also supports interoperability and readiness for Marine Corps forces stationed in the Asia-Pacific region.

The justification for the Comm & Elec Infrastructure Supt program centers on the need to maintain and modernize critical communications and emergency response infrastructure. The program addresses cybersecurity risks, equipment obsolescence, and the operational requirements of first responders. By funding technology refreshes, training, and infrastructure upgrades, the program ensures that Marine Corps installations remain capable of effective command, control, and emergency management in both routine and crisis situations. These investments directly support the safety of personnel, the protection of property, and the fulfillment of homeland security and mutual aid responsibilities.