Maritime Tactical Command and Control (MTC2) - Software Pilot Program

The Maritime Tactical Command & Control Software Pilot Program (PE 0608231N) is a Navy initiative focused on the research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) of advanced software capabilities for maritime command and control (C2). This program was established in response to recommendations from the Defense Innovation Board (DIB) and congressional direction to modernize and streamline Department of Defense (DoD) software acquisition practices. The overarching goal is to deliver agile, continuously updated software solutions that enhance operational effectiveness and decision-making speed for Navy and joint forces. This reflects a shift from traditional, sequential acquisition models to a more integrated and iterative approach.

Maritime Tactical Command & Control (MTC2) is the primary project under this program element. Its objective is to provide next-generation C2 software that delivers Battle Management Aids (BMAs) and Maritime Planning Tools (MPTs). These tools support dynamic planning, direction, monitoring, and assessment of maritime operations across Joint, Multi-Service, and Coalition Force environments. MTC2 leverages a system-of-services architecture to enable rapid development, testing, and fielding of small, capability-focused software deliveries, facilitating continuous improvement and adaptation to evolving operational requirements.

MTC2 works closely with the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations (OPNAV), Fleet stakeholders, and the Capability Requirements Council (CRC) to define and prioritize software capabilities. The program aligns its development efforts with the Program Executive Office (PEO) C4I enterprise architecture, including platforms such as Consolidated Afloat Network Enterprise Services (CANES) and Agile Core Services (ACS). The aim is to ensure interoperability and seamless integration of C2 applications across all Navy command echelons, both afloat and ashore. This also supports broader DoD joint command and control initiatives.

A key objective for FY 2026 is the research and development of the Employment Responsive Enterprise Scheduling System (EMPRESS), a containerized, web-based scheduling replacement for legacy systems. EMPRESS is intended to enable the Navy to conduct unit employment and service scheduling functions that are critical for force readiness generation, supporting both the Global Naval Force Presence Policy Schedule and Fleet Response Plan. The development of EMPRESS leverages existing DevSecOps pipelines to ensure secure, rapid, and iterative software delivery.

The program also supports the Global Force Management Data Initiative (GFM-DI), providing the Navy's solution for DoD-wide visibility, accessibility, and sharing of force structure data. MTC2 incorporates distributed data transfer capabilities to enhance operational data exchange between command and control, combat, logistics, and intelligence systems. This enables timely threat identification, location tracking, and status updates for both friendly and adversary forces, supporting strategic, operational, and tactical decision-making.

Sustainment activities under this line item include evolutionary acquisition, program management, training, help desk support, software licensing, and maintenance of fielded MTC2 instances. The program employs an agile acquisition strategy under DoDI 5000.87, utilizing Other Transaction Authority (OTA) and Multiple Award Contract (MAC) vehicles for software development. The Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific (NIWC-PAC) in San Diego serves as the designated Software Support Activity, overseeing systems engineering, integration, testing, and logistics support.