Command and Control Switchboard

The Command and Control Switchboard program is a critical component of the Navy's shipboard infrastructure, as outlined in Budget Line Item 0925. Its primary goal is to provide mission-essential switching capability that links various elements of shipboard combat equipment, including weapons, launchers, sensors, computers, and navigation systems. The switchboards serve as the central hub for combat and weapon systems, interior communications, data transfer, and command and control systems. They are designed to accommodate analog, digital, or hybrid interfaces, ensuring compatibility and interoperability across approximately 200 ships and 1,000 pieces of equipment throughout their acquisition lifecycle.

The objectives of the Command and Control Switchboard program focus on both procurement and engineering upgrades. The program aims to maintain and enhance intra-system and interface compatibility, which is vital for effective shipboard operations. It supports functions such as data routing, action cutout, test and operating mode selection (including casualty backup modes), power monitoring and control, circuit protection, peripheral equipment isolation, signal processing, and frequency conversion amplification and switching. These capabilities are necessary for the seamless integration and operation of the ship's combat and communication systems.

Engineering upgrades and modifications to equipment, along with technical documentation updates, are key subcomponents of this line item. This element covers the costs associated with upgrading and modifying existing equipment, as well as updating technical documentation to reflect new switching configurations. The goal is to ensure that switchboards can properly integrate all elements of the Combat System and Interior Communication interfaces. Engineering modifications drive the procurement of hardware modification kits, such as ordnance alteration and field change kits, which are essential for the functional deployment of Battle Force Interoperability. This subcomponent also includes updates to technical manuals, allowance parts lists, and equipage lists.

Ordnance alteration and field change kits represent another major objective within this budget line. These kits are procured to implement and validate the upgraded engineering modifications. The kits are quantified by ship class, with specific numbers required for different ship types. The procurement process is competitive and fixed-price, utilizing manufacturers from the Qualified Products List. The FY 2026 funding request specifically supports the procurement of these kits and the associated engineering upgrades, modifications, and technical documentation necessary for continued interoperability and system modernization.

The program also addresses the need for hull-unique switchboard configurations and documentation. Subsequent alterations to these switchboards require tailored design, hardware, installation, and checkout procedures to accommodate the specific needs of each hull type. New switchboards are typically installed during scheduled shipyard overhauls, ensuring minimal disruption to operational readiness. Modifications to existing switchboards are implemented through Ship Alterations, Ship Change Documents, ordnance alteration, or Field Changes, with the magnitude of modifications varying by ship class and modernization complexity.

Justification for the Command and Control Switchboard program centers on its role in maintaining and enhancing the Navy's operational effectiveness. The switchboards are required for almost all surface combatants and amphibious warfare ships, and their individual unit cost varies depending on ship size, complexity, and interface requirements. The program's funding supports both hardware procurement and the necessary engineering and technical documentation updates, which are vital for ensuring continued compatibility and interoperability as shipboard systems evolve.