Electro Magnetic Spectrum Operations (EMSO)

The Global Combat Support System - Marine Corps (GCSS-MC) is a critical line item in the Department of the Navy's FY 2026 budget, specifically supporting the Marine Corps' logistics modernization efforts. The GCSS-MC/Logistics Chain Management (LCM) Family of Systems serves as the primary technology enabler for the Marine Corps' logistics operations, providing the foundational information technology backbone for all logistics information required by Marine Forces and the Supporting Establishment. The main objective of this program is to ensure that logistics data and processes are modern, integrated, and capable of supporting both deployed and garrison operations worldwide.

The core of GCSS-MC/LCM Increment 1 is built on a commercial-off-the-shelf enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution, specifically the Oracle e-Business Suite. This increment was designed to replace five legacy supply and maintenance IT systems, thereby streamlining logistics operations and improving efficiency. Currently, GCSS-MC Increment 1 supports approximately 25,000 users globally, enabling the warfighter to maintain operational effectiveness with real-time logistics data and reach-back capabilities from the battlefield to garrison support units.

The FY 2026 budget request for GCSS-MC reflects a modest increase from FY 2025, primarily due to inflation and ongoing requirements for technology refreshes. The requested funds are allocated to ensure the continued sustainment and technological relevancy of the system's hardware and software components. This includes periodic upgrades to servers, storage devices, networking equipment, and application software to maintain cybersecurity compliance, performance, and interoperability with other Department of Defense systems.

The budget line item is broken down into three major cost elements: hardware, software, and support. For hardware, the objective is to conduct a technology refresh for major logistics hubs, ensuring that the physical infrastructure supporting GCSS-MC remains reliable and capable of handling current and future operational loads. Recurring hardware costs cover the procurement and installation of updated equipment at key sites.

For software, the program aims to keep the ERP platform and associated applications current with the latest security patches, functional enhancements, and integration capabilities. Recurring software costs ensure that the GCSS-MC system remains secure, user-friendly, and able to incorporate emerging technologies that can further improve asset visibility, logistics planning, and decision support.

Support costs are dedicated to engineering services necessary for the integration and testing of new hardware and software components. These services are critical for minimizing operational disruptions during upgrades and for ensuring that all enhancements are fully compatible with existing Marine Corps and Department of Defense IT environments.

The GCSS-MC budget line item is justified by the ongoing need to sustain and modernize the Marine Corps' logistics IT infrastructure. The program's goals are to enhance warehousing, distribution, logistics planning, depot maintenance, and integration with new technologies, all of which are essential for maintaining the readiness and effectiveness of Marine Corps operations. The requested funding supports both the immediate operational needs and the long-term strategic objectives of logistics modernization within the Marine Corps.