Training and Education Equipment

LI 8101 - Training and Education Equipment is a Navy budget line item under Other Procurement, Navy, focused on Personnel & Command Support Equipment for Training Devices. The primary objective is to provide Live, Virtual, and Constructive (LVC) training capability necessary for preparing combat-ready forces for worldwide operations. This includes procurement and sustainment of training support equipment, systems, network and IT infrastructure, communications, C4I systems, and specialized training devices. The program supports the Navy Continuous Training Environment (NCTE) and ensures compliance with cybersecurity and Information Assurance (IA) requirements.

Funding for training support equipment is managed primarily by US Fleet Forces Command (USFFC) and includes phased replacement and modernization of hardware and software within the NCTE. The goals are to maintain cyber security certification, enable advanced mission rehearsal, and support exercises such as COMPTUEX and JTFEX. The program also funds Gateway portable embarkation kits for Anti-Access Area Denial (A2AD) training, Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC) interim training systems, and the Integrated Maritime Portable Acoustic Scoring and Simulation (IMPASS) system. These investments ensure that fleet units can train against high-end threats and maintain readiness for evolving operational requirements.

Training Support Vessels (TSVs) are a critical component, particularly for the Atlantic Fleet, where open ocean training is required. Funding supports procurement, conversion, and sustainment of ABS-certified Offshore Supply Vessels reconfigured as TSVs. These vessels provide live fire, target, electromagnetic emissions, and jamming services for large-scale integrated training events. Regular maintenance, including dry docking and upgrades, ensures long-term viability and compliance with certification standards. The program also includes technical refresh and consolidation of East and West Coast tactical training networks into the NCTE, enhancing interoperability and network security.

Cybersecurity and network modernization is a growing focus, with new funding allocated for NCTE Cyber Hardening to align with DoD Zero Trust requirements. Investments in Surface LVC Training hardware and infrastructure support increased LVC event capability at fleet concentration centers. Upgrades to the TRANET training network, including routing, switching, wireless, and base area network improvements, are designed to standardize and modernize the delivery of training across NETC commands. The Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) initiative is transforming classroom technology by replacing physical workstations with zero client devices, improving agility, security, and sustainability.

Specialized training devices and simulators are funded to support Ready Relevant Learning (RRL) initiatives, which aim to accelerate Sailor learning and align training delivery with operational needs. This includes procurement of Firearms Training Simulators (FATS), tactical training simulators for Master at Arms students, and multipurpose reconfigurable training systems for technical ratings. The Avionics Maintenance Trainer (AMT) is being developed to replicate fleet avionics equipment for hands-on training, bridging the gap between classroom instruction and operational maintenance requirements. These systems are essential for producing qualified personnel capable of maintaining advanced Navy systems.

Education support equipment at the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) is another major component, with planned upgrades and replacements to ensure graduates are technologically prepared and competitive. Funding supports a wide range of academic and research infrastructure, including backup systems, advanced computing clusters, laboratory equipment, and network enhancements. Investments in wireless expansion, load balancers, and quality-of-life internet upgrades ensure reliable mission-critical services for midshipmen. Specialized research instruments support faculty and student research, maintaining accreditation and institutional competitiveness.

Sustainment of strategic facilities such as Hopper Hall at USNA is funded to strengthen cyber warfare education and research capabilities. Upgrades to motion capture systems, anechoic chambers, and other specialized equipment ensure that the Academy remains a leader in cyber and technical education. LI 8101 maintains alignment with Navy readiness priorities by investing in modernized training delivery, advanced simulation, cybersecurity, and academic infrastructure, supporting both operational and educational objectives across the Navy enterprise.