Spectrum Situational Awareness System (S2AS)

The Spectrum Situational Awareness System (S2AS) program, outlined under Program Element (PE) 0605247A, is a key Army initiative focused on providing commanders with real-time visibility and management capabilities within the Electromagnetic Spectrum (EMS). The primary objective of S2AS is to enhance operational awareness, prevent electronic fratricide, and support decision-making for emissions control (EMCON) and electromagnetic interference (EMI) resolution. This system is designed to strengthen command post survivability and enable commanders to understand and influence their exposure to adversary targeting within the EMS.

The S2AS Integration and Interoperability line item funds activities related to integrating the S2AS with existing Army systems and ensuring interoperability across platforms. In FY 2025, resources are allocated for technical and program management support, as well as testing to validate system performance and compatibility. This effort is critical for aligning S2AS capabilities with operational needs identified by USAREUR-AF and USARPAC, and for supporting Transformation in Contact (TiC) initiatives and Presidential Directives.

The S2AS Prototyping budget line is dedicated to the acquisition and development of prototypes using Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) and Government Off-The-Shelf (GOTS) technologies. The goal is to rapidly field solutions that meet operational requirements, leveraging proven technologies to expedite development and deployment. In FY 2025, resources are directed toward purchasing prototypes for testing, soldier feedback, and interoperability assessments. These steps are essential in refining the system for broader fielding.

The S2AS Test and Demonstration line item supports user assessments and feedback activities, which are integral to the iterative development process. These activities ensure that the system meets the needs of end users and provides actionable data for follow-on development efforts. Feedback gathered during demonstrations informs future enhancements and helps mitigate risks associated with fielding new technology in complex operational environments.

The S2AS Technical and Engineering Support line provides resources for ongoing technical, engineering, and program management functions. Contractors are engaged to deliver expertise in system development, integration, and lifecycle management. This support is vital for maintaining program momentum and ensuring that technical challenges are addressed promptly as the system moves through development and demonstration phases.

In FY 2026, the S2AS program was administratively realigned to Budget Activity 9 under PE 0609278A, Project Code A93, as part of the Agile Funding Pilot. This transition is intended to accelerate development and fielding by leveraging authorities such as Urgent Capability Acquisition and Middle Tier of Acquisition. The acquisition strategy emphasizes competitive procurement and rapid prototyping, with early transition of capabilities from the Terrestrial Layer System Echelons Above Brigade (TLS EAB) program to support Transformation in Contact Units.