Tactical/Mobile C4I Systems

The Tactical/Mobile C4I Systems program is a key Navy initiative under budget line item 2906, designed to provide advanced Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence (C4I) capabilities for maritime patrol and reconnaissance operations. This program primarily supports the P-8A Poseidon and MQ-4C Triton aircraft, ensuring robust ground station infrastructure for pre- and post-flight mission planning, inflight command and control, and secure data dissemination. The overarching goal is to maintain seamless connectivity and operational effectiveness between airborne platforms and the Maritime Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) enterprise. These efforts enhance decision-making and mission execution.

TacMobile Core Components consist of Tactical Operations Centers (TOCs), Mobile Tactical Operations Centers (MTOCs), and Fly Away Kits (FAKs). TOCs are fixed installations at major Navy and Marine Corps bases, while MTOCs are scalable, mobile versions designed for forward deployment and contingency operations. FAKs are lightweight, transportable systems supporting short-term detachments. The program includes TOCs, MTOCs, FAKs, and a schoolhouse for technical training. These assets are distributed across strategic locations in the U.S., Europe, the Pacific, and the Middle East to support global Navy operations.

TacMobile Tech Refresh 2.1.2 and 2.1.3 focus on incremental modernization of communications equipment and C4I architecture. The 2.1.2 refresh addresses end-of-life issues in UHF/VHF satellite radios and SHF communications, while adding support for advanced airborne sensors and acoustic intelligence analysis. Tech Refresh 2.1.3 modernizes the Secret domain C4I server stack, introduces converged network attached storage, and implements a services-based architecture using Platform as a Service (PaaS) and Software as a Service (SaaS) technologies. These upgrades improve data storage, maintainability, cyber resilience, and enable rapid capability insertion to keep pace with evolving threats and aircraft capabilities.

P-8A Ground Station (PGS) is an interim solution supporting the P-8A Increment 3 configuration, which introduces significant hardware and software enhancements for anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare missions. PGS enables mission planning, secure operations within SECRET and Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) enclaves, and post-flight data dissemination. The budget supports procurement and installation of new PGS infrastructure at TOCs and MTOCs, including higher-than-secret (HTS) enclaves, Minotaur servers, mission drive management, media gateways, and data encryption. These investments ensure compatibility with the latest aircraft upgrades and enhance operational security and flexibility.

Deployable Joint Command and Control (DJC2) provides standardized, self-contained, and scalable C2 suites for rapid deployment of Combined/Joint Task Force headquarters within 6-24 hours. The system supports a large number of users and is interoperable with joint and coalition forces. DJC2 modernization efforts focus on hardware and software upgrades to address cybersecurity threats, replace end-of-life components, and maintain interoperability with joint commanders. DJC2 core systems are stationed at strategic locations worldwide, ensuring readiness for real-world missions and exercises.

Production Support and Installation funding ensures the effective fielding and sustainment of TacMobile and DJC2 systems. This includes pre-shore installation design, production support, and installation activities for new and upgraded systems. The budget reflects targeted investments in HTS shelters, FAKs, and server stacks, aligning with current fielding plans and inventory objectives. Reductions in advisory services and civilian personnel are implemented to promote efficiency and workforce optimization, in accordance with recent executive orders.