Rapid Resilient Command and Control (R2C2)

The Rapid Resilient Command and Control (R2C2) program is a new initiative under the United States Space Force, managed by the Air Force. The program's primary goal is to develop, integrate, and sustain a modular, scalable, and extensible ground segment solution to support the Space Force's protect and defend missions. R2C2 consolidates previous efforts from Enterprise Ground Services (EGS) and Ground Command, Control, and Communications (GC3), merging them into a Combined Program Office (CPO) to improve efficiency and transparency in ground segment development and operations. This consolidation is intended to streamline acquisition, enhance mission support, and ensure robust command and control capabilities for satellite operations.

The R2C2 Satellite Command and Control Services line item focuses on the development and integration of common satellite operations ground segment solutions for command and control services, particularly in cloud environments. Specific objectives include refining standards and interfaces, implementing cybersecurity and cryptography requirements, developing training programs, and advancing Zero Trust architectures. The program also aims to mature antenna network services and connectivity, integrate mission-partner unique software, and support demonstrations and testing. These efforts are designed to provide resilient, secure, and interoperable command and control capabilities for a wide range of mission partners, including science and technology, prototype, and operational users.

For FY 2026, R2C2 will continue the deployment of cybersecurity, cryptography, and security architectures to support protect and defend capabilities. The program will expand infrastructure, network, and data system connectivity to improve resiliency and operational command and control for satellite missions. Additional objectives include maturing cloud architecture, developing antenna networking services, and conducting risk reduction demonstrations. The program will also begin integrating automation technologies to enhance mission control and engineering management, and support external agencies with test and checkout space vehicles to ensure software quality and performance.

The R2C2 Cloud Infrastructure and Platform/Antenna Services budget line supports the maintenance of hardware and software baselines, updates software licenses, integrates cybersecurity measures, and provides helpdesk operations and training. This line item ensures that R2C2 satellite operations ground segment services and antenna networking services remain current and effective for protect and defend mission partners. Planned activities include technical refreshes, patching, cybersecurity updates, and the initiation of life cycle sustainment for command and control services. These efforts are critical for maintaining operational readiness and supporting continuous mission operations.

The acquisition strategy for R2C2 leverages Department of Defense and Department of the Air Force contracts for commercial cloud capabilities, Other Transaction Agreements, and small business multiple award Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity contracts. This approach is intended to accelerate the operationalization of satellite operations ground segment solutions and provide flexible support for mission partners. The program also includes funding for necessary civilian pay expenses to manage, execute, and deliver weapon system capabilities, supplementing other Space Force personnel budget lines.

R2C2's schedule includes continuous development, integration, and deployment activities from FY 2026 through FY 2030, with milestones focused on the initial delivery and maturation of tactical satellite operations ground segment solutions and phased integration of protect and defend mission partners. The program's cost breakdown allocates funding to product development, management services, and support activities, reflecting the comprehensive nature of the effort. The anticipated outcomes are improved resiliency, security, and operational effectiveness for Space Force satellite command and control missions.