Network-Centric Collaborative Targeting

The Network-Centric Collaborative Targeting (NCCT) program is a Department of the Air Force initiative focused on developing and fielding a platform-agnostic, tactical, cooperative geolocation capability against time-sensitive targets. The primary goal of NCCT is to enable rapid find, fix, track, and target (F2T2) operations in highly contested battlespaces by leveraging a cloud-based, joint sensor network. This network integrates sensors and shooters across multiple domains and intelligence sources, utilizing artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) to assist in decision-making over a survivable, resilient network.

NCCT supports the Department of Defense's broader Sensing Grid objectives by providing intelligent sensor mesh networking, multi-intelligence (multi-INT) fusion, cross-domain information sharing, and sensor command and control (C2). The program is operational on various Air Force aircraft, the Distributed Common Ground System (DCGS), and other Department of Defense assets. Research and development efforts are aimed at advancing message sets, network management systems, and modernizing the network and fusion architecture to meet evolving operational needs.

The NCCT Core Technology line item funds the development and upgrade of the core NCCT system. This includes software modifications for integration with new and emerging platforms, incorporation of advanced data fusion algorithms, and compliance with Department of Defense information assurance standards. The program emphasizes rapid software delivery, continuous user feedback, and agile development processes to quickly address emerging requirements and capability gaps.

For FY 2026, NCCT funding is prioritized for advancing long-range kill chain capabilities and enhancing multi-INT High Capacity F2T2EA (HCF) sense-making. Objectives include integrating with key joint and service networks such as the Joint Fires Network, DAF Battle Network, and the Navy's Joint Integrated Fire Control - Electronic Warfare Multi-INT Fusion Engine. The program also aims to improve rapid sensemaking of multi-INT HCF sensors through cross-intelligence AI/ML-assisted fusion and network optimization to align with targeting priorities.

In FY 2025, the focus is on continued cloud utilization, refinement of user interfaces, integration of new data sources, and further optimization of automation through synaptic intelligence-based AI/ML. Upgrades to fusion engines and fielding of the Fusion Forward capability with the RC-135 fleet are also planned. The program maintains a rapid software release cycle to ensure timely delivery of new capabilities in response to operational feedback.

FY 2024 accomplishments included the deployment of one major and two minor capability releases, further development of multi-INT use cases, integration with additional platforms, and fusion on the edge development. FY 2024 funding supported Ukrainian assistance efforts to enhance communication and data dissemination networks, as well as continued integration of National-to-Tactical tip and cue capabilities and fusion of airborne moving target indication with signals intelligence data.

The NCCT program is managed by the 645th Aeronautical Systems Group at Wright-Patterson AFB, using Cost Plus Fixed Fee contracts for agile software development. The acquisition strategy allows for flexible funding redirection to meet urgent operational requirements, supporting activities such as system upgrades, software development, and integration. Key industry partners include L-3 ComCept for core technology, Anduril for user interface and user experience development, and NaraLogics for AI/ML development, with additional support from CACI for cloud migration and the 16th Air Force for cloud hosting services.