MIO Intel Exploitation Team

The MIO Intel Exploitation Team line item in the Department of the Navy's FY 2026 budget is focused on the procurement of advanced tactical electronic warfare (EW) and intelligence exploitation equipment to support Maritime Interdiction Operations (MIO). The primary goal of this program is to enhance the Navy Expeditionary Intelligence Command's (NEIC) ability to collect, exploit, and disseminate signals intelligence (SIGINT) and other forms of electronic data in support of theater commanders' requirements. The justification for this investment is rooted in the increasing demand for electronic collection capabilities against U.S. adversaries across multiple Areas of Responsibility (AORs). Timely and accurate intelligence is critical for force protection and mission success.

Maritime Interdiction Operations Intel Exploitation Team (343SA) is the overarching program element, encompassing several subcomponents that collectively provide a comprehensive suite of intelligence exploitation tools. The program's objectives include the acquisition and fielding of equipment capable of operating in both digital and analog radio frequency (RF) environments. This enables the collection and analysis of a wide range of wireless signals, which is essential for identifying, tracking, and countering adversary communications and electronic emissions during maritime security operations.

Satellite Communications Equipment is a key component, with the objective of providing robust, secure, and reliable communication links for deployed MIO teams. This equipment ensures that intelligence data collected in the field can be rapidly transmitted to command centers and other operational units, supporting real-time decision-making and coordination. The procurement of satellite communications equipment supports the Navy's requirement for global connectivity and interoperability during expeditionary operations.

Wireless Networks Mapping Equipment and Surveys and Wireless Networks Telecom Equipment are procured to enable the mapping, surveying, and exploitation of local wireless networks encountered during maritime interdiction missions. These systems allow teams to conduct telecom network mapping, geolocation, and capture of tactical SIGINT. Such capabilities are vital for understanding the electronic landscape and identifying potential threats or targets of interest within the operational environment.

Specific Emitter Identification Devices are designed to discern unique attributes of specific radar and communication emitters. The goal of this subcomponent is to provide the capability to uniquely identify and track adversary platforms or installations based on their electronic signatures. This enhances situational awareness and supports targeting, threat warning, and countermeasure development. In FY26, funding for these devices was reallocated to Digital Collection Devices to better align with evolving EW requirements.

Digital Collection Devices represent a significant focus of the FY26 budget, with increased funding to support the procurement of advanced EW systems for the NEIC. These devices are intended to capture, store, and process a wide range of digital signals, including those from wireless networks and electronic devices. The objective is to provide deployed teams with the tools needed to fulfill high-demand electronic collection missions, including document and media exploitation from seized electronic devices.

Additional components such as Tactical Electronic Warfare (TAC-EW) Dissemination systems and Digital Receiver Technology (DRT) 1301C+/Wireless Receiving Systems are included to further enhance the teams' ability to collect, analyze, and disseminate intelligence. The TAC-EW Dissemination systems facilitate the rapid sharing of collected intelligence across operational networks, while the DRT systems provide advanced wireless signal receiving capabilities. Together, these procurements ensure that the Navy's MIO teams remain equipped with state-of-the-art tools to address current and emerging electronic threats in the maritime domain.