Ground Soldier System

The Ground Soldier System program is a key component of the Army's Network Modernization Strategy, specifically supporting Line of Effort #1, Unified Network. The primary goal of this procurement line is to equip dismounted leaders with the Nett Warrior (NW) system, which consists of commercial End User Devices (EUDs) and supporting equipment. These systems are designed to provide integrated mission command and enhanced situational awareness during combat operations.

The NW system delivers real-time information on friendly and enemy positions, navigational data, map imagery, and other mission-critical graphics. This capability improves the effectiveness and safety of small unit leaders in dynamic operational environments.

The objectives of the Nett Warrior Soldier-Worn Hardware procurement are to supply Brigade Combat Teams (BCTs) with wearable smart devices, such as smartphones and smart watches, that serve as computational platforms for Next Generation Command and Control (NGC2). These devices are procured as Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) and Non-Developmental Items (NDI), enabling rapid fielding and technology refresh cycles. The program incorporates feedback from both conventional and Special Operations units to ensure the equipment meets operational needs, including secure networking capabilities at the SECRET and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)/Secure but Unclassified (SBU) levels.

This supports Transformation In Contact Brigades (TiC) by enabling faster, more flexible mission command data exchanges with Joint and Coalition forces while maintaining interoperability.

The Vehicle Integration Kits line item supports the integration of NW capabilities into Army vehicles, allowing mounted units to benefit from the same situational awareness and mission command enhancements as dismounted leaders. These kits are tailored to the specific requirements of vehicle-based BCTs, which necessitate additional support equipment compared to infantry BCTs. The procurement schedule for FY 2026 pivots toward vehicle BCTs, reflecting the Army's evolving operational priorities and the need for integrated network solutions across all combat platforms.

The Network Support Equipment and Battery and Recharging lines focus on providing the necessary infrastructure to maintain continuous operation of NW devices in expeditionary environments. These items include power management systems, network communication modules, and supporting hardware that reduce the logistical burden and power requirements for deployed units. Ensuring reliable connectivity and power is essential for sustaining the NW system's capabilities during extended missions and in austere conditions.

The Soldier Tactical Network and System Fielding and Initial Spares components are aimed at establishing a robust and scalable SBU Network Baseline 4.0. This baseline enables rapid, accurate decision-making at the tactical level and ensures that data from dismounted leaders is seamlessly integrated into higher-level Army and Joint Coalition networks. Fielding activities include new equipment training (NET) and support services for active duty BCTs, Special Operations, and Ranger units, ensuring that all NW-equipped units can fully leverage the system's capabilities.

The Technology Refresh line item addresses the need to keep NW hardware current with commercial technology advancements and to mitigate manufacturer-induced obsolescence. The program office consolidates purchases of commercial-based items to address diminishing manufacturing sources and obsolescence, enabling buyouts of devices and components for up to two years beyond FY 2026.

The Ground Soldier System budget line supports the Army Transformation Initiative by enhancing small unit combat capabilities, improving mission command, and integrating dismounted leaders into the Army's unified network. The program aligns with Army priorities for network modernization, supports homeland defense and domestic emergency response missions, and provides military support to civil authorities. Ongoing evaluations and technology refresh cycles ensure that the NW system remains effective, scalable, and responsive to the changing operational landscape.