Theater Battle Management (TBM) C4I

The Theater Battle Management (TBM) C4I program is a critical element in the Air Force's Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) budget, specifically under Operational Systems Development. This program is designed to modernize and enhance command and control (C2) capabilities for the Air Operations Center (AOC) Weapon System, supporting both joint and coalition partner requirements. The overarching goal is to deliver advanced software solutions that enable effective planning, execution, and management of air, space, and cyber operations, in alignment with the 2013 Joint Command and Control Capability Development Document (CDD).

The principal objective of the TBM C4I program is to develop and integrate new applications through the Applications Development line item. This effort utilizes agile software development methodologies, including test-driven development and continuous integration/continuous delivery (CI/CD) processes. The focus for FY 2026 is on providing software capabilities that support the creation, dissemination, and execution of the Master Air Attack Plan (MAAP). The program also aims to automate airspace management functions such as building airspaces, evaluating requests, and generating the Airspace Control Order (ACO).

The Applications Development project seeks to replace legacy systems such as the Master Air Attack Plan-Toolkit and components of the Theater Battle Management Core System - Force Level. By delivering modernized software, the program aims to improve interoperability between operational and tactical systems, eliminate manual data transfers, and enhance decision-making capabilities for the Joint Forces Air Component Commander. These upgrades are essential for supporting dynamic mission replanning and ensuring robust operational capabilities across the global AOC enterprise.

A key dependency for TBM C4I is the All Domain Common Platform (ADCP), which provides a resilient, cloud-based infrastructure for hosting mission applications and data. The integration of TBM C4I with ADCP ensures that Airmen deployed worldwide have access to critical C2 tools and information. TBM C4I also aligns with other USAF investments, including Mission Planning Systems, Air Operations Center modernization, C2IMERA, and the Advanced Battle Management System. Together, these initiatives form the Theater Air Planning System of Systems architecture for the Department of the Air Force Battle Network.

The acquisition strategy for TBM C4I emphasizes evolutionary and agile development, leveraging the Software Acquisition Pathway under the direction of Program Executive Office Digital at Hanscom AFB, MA. The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center serves as the contracting authority, providing comprehensive support in contracting, legal, engineering, testing, and logistics. This approach is intended to standardize and modernize C2 applications while responding rapidly to emerging operational requirements.

For FY 2026, funding for Applications Development is increased to support AOC Operational Test & Evaluation, post-OT&E fielding, and the expansion of Major Theater War capabilities. The program also reflects a minor reduction in advisory and assistance services to promote efficiency, in accordance with Executive Order 14222. Civilian pay expenses may be included as needed to manage and deliver weapon system capabilities, supplementing other program elements dedicated to personnel costs.