Theater Air Control Sys Improvemen

The Theater Air Control System Improvement program, as outlined in Line Item 833040 of the Air Force's FY 2026 budget request, is focused on the modernization and enhancement of the Air Force's mobile, ground-based battle management command and control (BMC2) capabilities. The primary platform supported by this line item is the AN/TSY-7 Control and Reporting Center (CRC), which serves as a critical node for theater air control, providing direct command and control to air assets within an assigned Area of Responsibility (AOR) and reporting back to the Joint Force Air Component Commander (JFACC).

The CRC is a modular and transportable system comprised of several key subsystems, including the AN/TYQ-23A(V)1 Tactical Air Operations Module, the AN/TSC-250 Communication Data Link System, the AN/TRC-213/214 Remote Radio Secure Voice System (RRSVS), the AN/TPS-75 organic sensor, and associated mission support equipment.

The overarching goal of the Theater Air Control System Improvement program is to modernize these CRC subsystems through a phased approach extending through 2037. This modernization aims to advance battlespace awareness and enhance tactical battle management command and control capabilities. In FY 2026, the program will continue to align with the Department of the Air Force's Battle Network modernization efforts, with a focus on standardizing deployable data flows, enabling technology-agnostic reach-back communications, and incorporating Advanced Battle Management System (ABMS) standards and components.

A major objective for FY 2026 is the production and integration of the Remote Radio Secure Voice System (RRSVS) Major Release 2 (MR2). This upgrade, previously referred to as a block upgrade, is intended to replace legacy voice communication systems with more secure and capable solutions. The RRSVS MR2 effort is crucial for ensuring secure, resilient, and interoperable voice communications within the CRC and across joint and coalition forces. FY 2026 funds primarily support continued integration and delivery.

Another key component of the FY 2026 request is the procurement and integration of Deployable Digital Infrastructure (DDI) and Remote Digital Infrastructure (RDI). These efforts are designed to modernize the CRC's networking and data transport capabilities, enabling more robust, flexible, and secure data exchanges in contested and dynamic operational environments. The integration of these digital infrastructure elements supports the transition to ABMS standards and enhances the CRC's ability to operate as part of the future Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) architecture.

The FY 2026 budget also includes investments in MILSATCOM and Proliferated Low Earth Orbit Commercial Satellite Communication (PLEO SATCOM) systems. These satellite communication enhancements are intended to provide resilient, high-bandwidth, and low-latency communications for deployed CRC units. The shift to PLEO COMSATCOM in FY 2026 replaces previous efforts that were not available for procurement in FY 2025, ensuring continued operational connectivity and data flow for theater air control missions.

The Theater Air Control System Improvement line item supports not only overseas contingency operations but also homeland defense, domestic emergency response, and military support to civil authorities, as required by Section 1815 of the FY 2008 National Defense Authorization Act. The program is structured to serve both active and reserve components, enhancing the Air Force's ability to respond to a wide range of contingencies and support civil authorities when needed.

In alignment with federal efficiency initiatives, the FY 2026 request was reduced for Advisory and Assistance Services, reflecting efforts to promote cost efficiencies and comply with Executive Order 14222. Additionally, this program supports the Department of Defense's audit readiness objectives, as required by Title 10 U.S.C. Chapter 9A, Section 240-D, by ensuring that all procurement and modernization activities are fully auditable and in compliance with federal financial management standards.