Network Management Initialization and Service

The Network Management Initialization and Services (NMIS) program is a key component of the Army's Next Generation Command and Control (NGC2) initiative, which is designed to modernize the Command and Control (C2) systems infrastructure. The primary goal of NMIS is to establish a secure, integrated, and resilient network operations capability that supports multi-domain operations and enhances the Army's ability to conduct rapid, accurate decision-making. This line item consolidates funding for several critical projects that collectively advance the Army's modernization priorities. The focus is on procurement and sustainment of hardware, software, and data products necessary for a unified network-centric battlefield.

The Joint Network Management System (JNMS) project supports the Army's objective of integrated network management by providing training, logistics, and technical support for the Joint Enterprise Network Manager (JENM) and related planning applications. Funding is allocated for Field Support Engineering (FSE) personnel, who train soldiers to plan, configure, monitor, and sustain tactical radio networks. JNMS also utilizes the Network Management Reference Implementation Laboratory (NM RIL) for help desk support, software updates, and integration onto deployed hardware platforms. This ensures that Division/Brigade Combat Teams, Security Forces Assistance Brigades, and experimental units have the necessary tools and support to maintain network readiness and interoperability.

Unified Network Operations (UNO) is the largest component of the NMIS line, with funding dedicated to deploying and sustaining the NGC2 Infrastructure Layer. UNO provides program management, systems engineering, hardware procurement, software licensing and support, deployment platforms, and post-deployment software sustainment. The objective is to minimize reliance on manual processes and high-signature infrastructure, enabling a streamlined, low-footprint network that delivers tailored information to commanders. UNO incorporates Zero Trust Architecture, which continuously verifies users and devices to enhance cybersecurity and data integrity. The program's scope includes accelerating capability deployment, integrating additional systems, and meeting elevated compliance and risk management requirements.

Network Management Systems (NMS) funding historically supported procurement of ruggedized application platforms, tactical radios, and related hardware for network management. In FY 2025 and beyond, base dollars have been realigned to the Networked Radio Planners funding line, reflecting a shift in procurement strategy. The NMS effort has focused on providing the hardware and software necessary for tactical network planning, integration, and sustainment, with prior years' funding supporting thousands of units across the Army, Army National Guard, and Army Reserve. This transition ensures that future investments are aligned with evolving network requirements and modernization objectives.

The Data Products project supports the creation, modernization, and sustainment of data products essential for the Mission Command Network. These products enable interoperability, network-centric connectivity, and integration of disparate systems across multiple domains. Data Products support five key capabilities: a converged Mission Command Network, end-to-end connectivity, integration across domains, network resiliency, and combat system initialization. Funding also supports the Automated Initialization Manager and Initialization Tool Suite, which allow soldiers to customize data products to meet mission requirements. These efforts are critical for supporting Army 2030/2040 initiatives, network modernization, experimentation, and force structure transformation.

Across all components, the NMIS program is justified by its role in enabling the Army's transition to a unified, resilient, and secure network environment. The program supports all warfighting functions by integrating C2, intelligence, fires, protection, sustainment, and network operations into a cohesive ecosystem. Funding prioritization and consolidation in FY 2026 reflect the Army's commitment to accelerating modernization, enhancing cyber resilience, and ensuring operational readiness for both active and reserve components. The NMIS line item is also necessary for homeland defense, domestic emergency response, and military support to civil authorities, in accordance with statutory requirements.