UMCS-Unman Carrier Aviation(UCA)Mission Cntrl

The UMCS-Unmanned Carrier Aviation (UCA) Mission Control Station program is a critical component of the Navy's modernization efforts to support the integration and operation of unmanned aerial systems, specifically the MQ-25 Stingray and future Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), within carrier air wings. The program's primary goal is to develop, procure, install, and sustain the control stations, communications, and network infrastructure required for both shipboard and shore-based command and control of unmanned aviation assets. This system-of-systems approach is designed to enable seamless planning and execution of flight operations and tactical missions, supporting the Air Wing of the Future (AWOTF) concept.

A central objective of the UMCS program is the deployment of the MD-5 Ground Control Station (GCS) in three variants: fixed shore (MD-5D), carrier-based (MD-5C), and mobile embarkable (MD-5E). These stations provide pilots with the capability to command and control MQ-25 air vehicles using external C4I (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence) systems. The GCS incorporates the Multi Domain Combat System (MDCX), which supports multi-level security, control of multiple unmanned aircraft, and interoperability with other Department of Defense systems. The program funds the build, integration, and installation of these stations, including associated hardware such as pilot workstations, server racks, network interface racks, and integrated communication systems.

The UMCS program also encompasses extensive modification and integration activities on aircraft carriers, specifically NIMITZ and FORD class CVNs. Using the Ship Change Document (SCD) process, the program modifies 12-15 spaces per carrier to install GCS hardware, ancillary systems for communications and video management, and to integrate with existing carrier networks. These modifications require coordination with NAVSEA and NAVWAR C4I systems, ensuring compatibility with baseline programs such as CANES, ADNS, NTCDL, MUOS DMR, DCGS-N, GCCS-M, and others. The installations are planned and executed in alignment with the Navy Modernization Process (NMP), which includes phases for planning, design, drawing production, hardware procurement, and shipyard services.

A significant portion of the budget is allocated to hardware procurement and technical refreshes for both ship and shore-based systems. This includes acquisition of Integrated Communication System (ICS) racks, Video Management Systems (VidMS), ARC-210 Radio Communication Systems (RCS), MUOS Digital Modular Radios (DMR), Shore Common Data Link (CDL) systems, Ashore Routing Communication Systems (ARCS), Data Transfer Systems (DTS), UCA Transport Systems (UTS), and Air Traffic Control (ATC) Picture systems. The program also addresses obsolescence and end-of-life issues for key subsystems, ensuring continued reliability and compatibility with evolving operational requirements.

The FY2026 budget request reflects an increase in funding to accelerate modifications and installations on four aircraft carriers, including full installation of the MD-5 GCS on three carriers and completion of the Final Deployment Configuration on CVN J. Additional funds support the build and installation of more MD-5 subsystems and ancillary systems than in previous years, as well as the initiation of Software Support Activity (SSA) and Field Service Representative (FSR) support. The program also funds hardware and documentation for operational shore locations, including the CONUS West and East sites, to support MQ-25 operations and future CCA integration.

Support activities funded under UMCS include the revision and maturation of guidance documentation, integration and testing of hardware and software, preparation of Fleet Readiness Certification Board (FRCB) artifacts, and lifecycle logistics support. The program ensures technical manuals, operator and maintenance training, and updated logistics data are available to support fielded systems. Additionally, UMCS continues to modify launch and recovery systems (ALRE and JPALS) to enable MQ-25 operations from both NIMITZ and FORD class carriers, and to integrate with shore-based wideband communications, including future BLOS (Beyond Line of Sight) capabilities.