Tactical Network Radio Systems (Low-Tier)

The Tactical Network Radio Systems (Low-Tier) program, under Army Program Element PE 0605042A, is a critical component of the Army's Next Generation Command and Control (NGC2) initiative. Its primary goal is to modernize tactical communications by developing and demonstrating advanced radio systems that provide both classified and unclassified voice and data connectivity. The program supports the Transport Layer of the Army's Command and Control (C2) architecture, focusing on secure, scalable, and tailorable radio solutions for expeditionary warfighters. These systems are designed to operate in a variety of environments, supporting line-of-sight (LOS) and beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) communications for both dismounted personnel and platforms.

Manpack Radio is a major line item within this program, with continued development, testing, and evaluation planned for FY2026. The Manpack radio provides classified and unclassified communications using the Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio System (SINCGARS) waveform, advanced networking waveforms such as TrellisWare TSM for Secure but Unclassified (SBU) communications, and the Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) waveform for tactical satellite communications. The program's objectives include supporting annual Performance Verification Tests (PVTs), Operational User Assessments (OUAs), and Soldier Touch Points (STPs) to validate vendor enhancements and address findings from previous operational tests. These activities ensure the radios meet reliability, security, and survivability requirements, and inform future procurement and sustainment strategies.

Manpack Radio program management encompasses oversight of acquisition strategy implementation, contract management, and logistical support, with funds allocated for both government and contractor support. Technical systems engineering activities focus on evaluating alternatives to reduce costs, improve performance, and meet tactical radio objectives. The program also examines modular and open system architectures to facilitate future integration and reduce waveform porting costs. The acquisition strategy relies on procuring Non-Developmental Items (NDI) through competitive contracts, ensuring compliance with program requirements and supporting full rate production decisions.

Rifleman Radio is another key line item. The Rifleman Radio suite includes legacy single-channel radios, Single Channel Data Radios (SCDR) for Soldier Born Mission Command (SBMC), two-channel Leader Radios (LR), and radios with Sensitive But Unclassified-Encryption (SBU-E). The program's objectives are to provide secure, multi-mode, software-reprogrammable handheld radios capable of simultaneous voice and data communications. These radios support a variety of platforms and end-user devices, meeting the communications needs of the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, and Special Operations Command. Annual PVTs, OUAs, and STPs are conducted to verify enhancements and ensure compliance with operational requirements.

Rifleman Radio program management includes overall execution oversight, reporting, and participation in Integrated Product Team meetings. Technical engineering support is provided to evaluate alternatives for cost reduction and performance improvement. Test and evaluation activities focus on radio frequency performance, security, reliability, maintainability, and survivability, as well as environmental suitability. The program also supports the integration and testing of SBU-E capabilities, which are essential for modernizing Army communications and ensuring secure operations at various classification levels.

Both Manpack and Rifleman Radio lines support the broader Handheld, Manpack, and Small Form Fit (HMS) radio program, which serves as the backbone of the Army's Integrated Tactical Network (ITN) architecture. HMS radios are designed to be tailorable, scalable, and software-defined, supporting a wide range of operational scenarios and platforms. The program leverages feedback from technical and operational testing to drive lifecycle sustainment improvements and future waveform incorporation. Funding reductions in FY2026, such as a decrease for Advisory and Assistance Services, reflect ongoing efforts to promote efficiency and align with government cost-saving initiatives.