Tactical Network Technology Mod In Svc

The Tactical Network Technology Mod In Svc program is a key component of the Army's Network Modernization Priority, supporting both the Army of 2030 and 2040 initiatives. Its primary goal is to modernize the Army's Tactical Network Transport, which enables mission command capabilities by connecting highly mobile and dispersed forces. This network facilitates information sharing across the Army's global information network, joint and multinational elements, and the Department of Defense Information Network (DoDIN). The program focuses on upgrading systems that have been in service for over two decades. It also ensures compliance with network security and Information Assurance policies to maintain Authority to Operate (ATO).

Regional Hub Nodes (RHN) and Global Agile Integrated Transport (GAIT) form the backbone of the Tactical Network Transport. The RHNs are five fixed ground terminals located globally, providing Combatant Commanders with seamless tactical global network access. These nodes link tactical beyond line-of-sight communications with the DoDIN, enabling connectivity for joint and coalition operations. The GAIT component enhances rapid and simplified connectivity between tactical and strategic units, supporting commercial transport options such as Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Medium Earth Orbit (MEO), High Capacity GEO satellites, and cellular (5G) networks. Modernization efforts include hardware procurement, systems and network engineering, production facilities, and software licensing.

Tactical Hub Node (THN) modernization is focused at the division level, where Extra Large Terminals are fielded at 18 divisions. These terminals consist of two antenna vehicles and one control vehicle, providing mobile platforms to manage network operations at the division level. The program aims to modernize eight systems over an eight-year period, encompassing hardware procurement, initial spares, systems engineering, operational evaluation, software licensing, training development, and fielding. This ensures that division-level command posts have resilient and mobile network control capabilities.

Satellite Transportable Terminal (STT) and Satellite Terminals Modernization address the need for advanced satellite connectivity for battalion through corps units. The STT has been the primary terminal since 2005, enabling mission command, intelligence, and logistics functions. The modernization effort focuses on developing alternative state-of-the-art At-the-Quick-Halt (ATQH) and On-the-Move (OTM) solutions. These leverage emerging satellite technologies (LEO/MEO/GEO) to enhance network speed, capacity, and resiliency. This is critical for maintaining command and control capabilities in large-scale combat operations against peer adversaries.

Technical Insertions Communications Nodes Modernization involves upgrading Medium and Large Communication Nodes to incorporate enhanced commercial baseband and terminal capabilities. These upgrades provide the essential network connection between satellite terminals and command post mission systems, replacing systems fielded since 2017. The initiative leverages a Family of Baseband contracting approach to integrate emerging technologies, ensuring network resiliency, capacity, and convergence with high-throughput, low-latency broadband services. The modernization includes hardware procurement, systems engineering, operational evaluation, software licensing, and training development.

Scalable Network Node (SNN) and On the Move Network Transport (AFN OTM) initiatives further enhance beyond line-of-sight communications and network connectivity for armored formations. The SNN uses commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components and very small aperture terminals (VSAT) to provide flexible, scalable communications packages for contested environments. The AFN OTM builds on previous pilot efforts to deliver resilient, simplified network solutions for armored divisions, improving mission command and survivability through command post dispersion and reduced electronic signature. Both efforts include hardware procurement, systems engineering, operational evaluation, software licensing, training development, and fielding.

The Tactical Network Technology Mod In Svc program supports the Army's near-term and mid-term network modernization strategies by standardizing the Tactical Network Transport baseline and leveraging state-of-the-art commercial products. The program introduces new capabilities and technologies through engineering changes, ensuring acquisition agility and alignment with Army 2030/2040 goals. Modernizing the Tactical Network Transport is a top Army priority, critical for defending against cyber threats, maintaining communications in contested environments, and replacing end-of-life components. In FY 2025, this line item was consolidated into the broader Tactical Network Communication program, reflecting its ongoing evolution and integration within the Army's communications portfolio.