Joint Tactical Network Center (JTNC)

The Joint Tactical Network Center (JTNC) program, as outlined in Program Element (PE) 0605030F, is a Department of Defense (DoD) initiative focused on enhancing secure, interoperable, and resilient tactical communications capabilities for joint warfighter operations. The JTNC is chartered to support rapid identification, characterization, procurement, fielding, and sustainment of modular and innovative tactical communications products, with a particular emphasis on Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) systems. The program is managed in close coordination with key stakeholders, including the Communications, Command, and Control Leadership Board (C3LB), Tactical Communications Senior Steering Group (TCSSG), and other DoD agencies.

A central goal of the JTNC is to maintain and evolve a cyber-hardened DoD Information Repository (IR), which serves as a secure database for proprietary and nonproprietary waveforms and tactical communications products. This repository supports technical analyses and capability characterizations, enabling the DoD to assess and compare commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) and non-developmental item (NDI) products for potential integration. The JTNC also provides open systems architecture standards that promote hardware-agnostic software baselines and facilitate increased competition and interoperability among Software Defined Radios (SDRs).

The JTNC supports the development and maturation of the Joint Communications Marketplace (JCM), a collaborative environment designed to connect government and industry stakeholders. The JCM enables rapid acquisition efforts by providing tools for technical exchange meetings, whitepaper submissions, and contract evaluations. These activities address DoD capability gaps and accelerate the delivery of innovative technologies to the warfighter. The JTNC also manages exportability analysis and licensing reviews to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and facilitate the export of tactical communications products.

Technical advisory functions are a key aspect of the JTNC's mission, with the center serving as an advisor to the C3LB and TCSSG. JTNC leads and participates in working groups such as the Communications Technologies and Waveforms Working Group (CTWWG) and the Resiliency Sub-Working Group (RSWG). These groups focus on the development and standardization of resilient waveform technologies aimed at mitigating adversary threats such as detection, interception, geolocation, and jamming. These efforts enhance the survivability and effectiveness of tactical communications systems.

The JTNC is also involved in standards-related activities, including collaboration with the Army on the development of C4ISR/Electronic Warfare Modular Open Suite of Standards (CMOSS) specifications and participation in the Interface Control Working Group (ICWG). The center co-chairs the High-Frequency Interoperability and Architecture Sub-Working Group (HF I&A SWG) with the Joint Interoperability Test Command (JITC) to address interoperability issues in next-generation high-frequency (HF) systems. Additionally, JTNC supports the National Security Agency (NSA) through analysis of software artifacts and high-assurance devices, such as SDRs with specific waveforms.

The Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS), the primary project under this program element, provides engineering, technical support, test and evaluation, product development, and program management. The JTRS initiative is closely tied to JTNC's objectives, focusing on the development and deployment of interoperable tactical radio solutions that meet validated requirements prior to full-rate production. The program is executed through partnerships with organizations such as G2SS, NIWC PAC/LANT, and APG, leveraging joint funding strategies across the military departments.

Beginning in FY 2025, all JTNC funding and activities are being realigned to the Army's PE 0605030A, reflecting a joint budget strategy designed to streamline resource allocation and eliminate duplicative efforts. The acquisition strategy supports continued development of the DoD IR, analysis of directed software and artifacts, support for NSA's Commercial Communications Security Evaluation Program (CCEP), and ongoing evolution of waveform standards and modular radio architectures. These objectives collectively reinforce an acquisition environment that ensures secure, interoperable, and resilient tactical communications for joint operations across the DoD.