Control and Reporting Center (CRC)

The Control and Reporting Center (CRC) program, identified as Program Element (PE) 0207412F in the Air Force's FY2026 Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) budget, supports the modernization and operational systems development of the AN/TSY-7 CRC. The CRC is a mobile, ground-based battle management command and control (BMC2) system that provides tactical-level command and control to air assets within a designated Area of Responsibility (AOR). Its primary objective is to enhance the CRC's ability to report to the Joint Force Air Component Commander (JFACC) and maintain persistent, modular, and threat-relevant tactical command and control capabilities.

The CRC Modernization line item consolidates previous upgrade efforts into a coordinated initiative focused on improving BMC2, sensors, and communications subsystems. This modernization integrates the Distributable Battle Management Node (DBMN) and Common Battle Management Command and Control (CBC2+) to enable the fielding of the Tactical Operations Center-Light (TOC-L) capability within CRCs. The goal is to deliver an upgraded, more modular system that is responsive to evolving threats and operational requirements.

In FY2026, specific objectives under CRC Modernization include the integration of long-haul SATCOM capabilities, continued architectural upgrades and testing of the AN/TYQ-23A(V)1 Tactical Air Operations Module, and the modernization of the CRC System Integration Lab (SIL). Additional efforts involve modernization studies for power, fuel storage, and tactical sensing capabilities, as well as the integration of cloud-based command and control (CBC2+). These activities are designed to ensure the CRC remains interoperable, certified, supportable, and compliant with Department of Defense directives and emerging cybersecurity requirements.

The Remote Radio Secure Voice System (RRSVS) Major Release 2 (MR2) Architectural Upgrade is a key component of the modernization effort, with ongoing architecture development scheduled through FY2028. This upgrade aims to enhance secure voice communications and ensure compatibility with other CRC subsystems. The program also includes interoperability and integration efforts with TOC-L and the modernization of the CRC Integration Support Facility (ISF) to prepare for future system integration and capability enhancements.

The System Integration Lab (SIL) supports organic software development and system testing for CRC upgrades. In FY2026, the SIL will undergo further modernization to facilitate the integration and evaluation of new CRC capabilities. The program also funds test support activities to validate system performance and ensure operational readiness. These efforts are managed by the Air Force Program Executive Office for Command, Control, Communications, and Battle Management (AFPEO C3BM), with contracting authority provided by the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC).

The CRC program aligns with broader USAF investments in the Advanced Battle Management System (ABMS) and Air Base Air Defense Systems, aiming to deliver a common hardware and software baseline for deployable battle network systems. The acquisition strategy includes phased updates through 2037 to advance battlespace awareness and tactical battle management capabilities. The program also seeks to reduce reliance on Advisory and Assistance Services contracts, promoting efficiency and supporting government-wide cost-saving initiatives.

Funding within PE 0207412F also covers necessary civilian pay expenses required to manage, execute, and deliver weapon system capability, supplementing other Air Force program elements. The CRC modernization efforts are structured to ensure continued compliance with DoD policies, maintain interoperability with joint and coalition partners, and address emerging operational and technical requirements in a rapidly evolving threat environment.