Maritime Integrated Broadcast System

The Maritime Integrated Broadcast System (MIBS) program is a Navy initiative funded under Line Item 2900, designed to deliver Integrated Broadcast Service (IBS) data to operational and tactical decision makers aboard U.S. Navy surface ships, shore headquarters, and joint platforms. The primary objective of MIBS is to provide near real-time, Over the Air (OTA) IBS data, which enhances the Common Operational Picture (COP) and supports operations across all warfare domains, including Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD), Anti-Air Warfare (AAW), Anti-Surface Warfare (ASUW), Undersea Warfare (UW), and Electronic Warfare (EW). This capability is critical for tracking both friendly and adversary forces and supporting warfighters at the tactical edge, regardless of Emission Control (EMCON) posture.

The MIBS program also plays a vital role in supporting Over the Horizon-Targeting (OTH-T) missions and enables closure of the kill chain in denied environments. The system is integral to the Navy's ability to maintain situational awareness and command and control in distributed maritime operations. The program's goals include upgrading and refreshing technical capabilities, specifically through the procurement and installation of advanced systems that replace legacy terminals that have been in sustainment for over 20 years.

A key component within the MIBS program is the Joint Tactical Terminal - Maritime Evolved (JTT-ME) system. JTT-ME is designed to provide a modern, secure, network-enabled infrastructure that supports future radios and waveforms. This upgrade is formally specified by Fleet Commanders as a threshold capability for global Maritime Command, Control, and Communications, and is required for National Command and Control capability. Procurement of JTT-ME terminals, along with associated components such as Quad Diversity Combiners, Security Appliances, Power Systems, and Rack Mounted Computers, ensures the Navy remains technologically current and operationally effective.

Installations are another critical aspect of the MIBS budget line. Funding is allocated for the installation of JTT-ME systems across Navy platforms and shore sites, ensuring that the upgraded terminals are fully integrated into the operational environment. This includes installation services and support for Distributed System Architecture (DSA), which enhances the flexibility and resilience of Navy communications infrastructure.

Production support is provided to ensure the successful deployment and sustainment of MIBS technologies. This includes funding for production support activities such as system integration, testing, and logistics. These efforts are essential for maintaining system reliability and operational readiness, especially as the Navy transitions from legacy systems to the new JTT-ME infrastructure.

A significant objective of the FY 2026 budget is the realignment of MIBS funding from Line Item 2900 into Line Item 2361. This consolidation is intended to group technology projects more efficiently, foster innovation, and promote flexibility in resource management. The realignment supports the Department of Defense (DoD) Implementation Plan from the Commission on Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution (PPBE) Interim Report, which recommends consolidating Program Elements (PEs) and Budget Line Items (BLIs) to streamline technology development and procurement processes.