USCENTCOM

The USCENTCOM Communications program, as outlined in Line Item 835140 of the Air Force budget, is designed to enhance the command's ability to direct and enable military operations throughout the Middle East and surrounding regions. The primary goal is to maintain robust Command, Control, Communications, and Computer (C4) systems that support full-spectrum information superiority. This is crucial for deterring regional threats, countering violent extremist organizations, and enabling strategic competition. The program's objectives focus on procurement and modernization of C2 systems, including the replacement of end-of-life hardware such as thin clients and servers, and the upgrade of both classified and unclassified voice, data, and video dissemination systems.

A key objective of the USCENTCOM Communications line is the modernization of the Storage Area Network (SAN) infrastructure and the enhancement of mission partner networks. This includes the CENTCOM Partner Network (CPN), CENTCOM Partner Network Episodic (CPN-X), and the Mission Partner Environment Information System (MPE-IS). These networks are essential for secure bilateral and multilateral information sharing with coalition partners, supporting operations up to the SECRET RELEASABLE level.

The program also supports the transition to the Collaborative Partner Environment (CPE), which enables seamless access to data and applications across multiple devices and networks. This directly supports accelerated decision-making and targeting cycles as envisioned by the Combined Joint All Domain Command and Control (CJADC2) concepts.

Another significant objective is the procurement of land-based spectrum monitoring nodes. These nodes are designed to capture radio signals across the electromagnetic spectrum, providing near-real-time awareness of the Electromagnetic Operational Environment (EMOE). This capability is intended to prevent electromagnetic interference incidents, validate spectrum usage and availability, and support Predeployment Site Survey (PDSS) efforts.

Additionally, procurement funds will address critical data storage requirements, including the provision of Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) systems for both classified and unclassified data networks. This ensures maximum data storage capacity for war records and operational continuity.

The Service Support to USCENTCOM - Communications line item, also known as US Air Force Central (AFCENT) Communications, is focused on supporting air operations within the USCENTCOM Area of Responsibility (AOR). The program's goals are to modernize key C4 infrastructure at multiple locations, aligning with the Joint Information Environment mandate and supporting the USCENTCOM Theater Posture Plan (TPP). This includes replacing aging Command & Control systems that enable air domain awareness, implementing zero-trust architecture, and upgrading cloud-based IT management capabilities.

The modernization efforts are justified by the need to secure expeditionary bases and locations, and to maintain information superiority in a complex operational environment. A major component of the budget is the procurement of small, portable tactical radar systems for counter-unmanned aerial system (c-UAS) detection and enhanced battlespace awareness. These radars provide active detection and tracking of airborne targets, including general aviation aircraft and other potential threats.

The program also includes the acquisition of explosive detection technology to mitigate vehicle-borne improvised explosive threats at expeditionary locations, supporting Air Force Operational Order and security mandates. These investments are aimed at enhancing base security, protecting personnel, and ensuring operational effectiveness.

For FY 2026, the budget request supports the continued transition of USCENTCOM's networking and computer-based operations to a hybrid multi-cloud architecture. This infrastructure spans two headquarters, a Pentagon liaison office, Security Cooperation Organization sites, and a disaster recovery location. The hybrid multi-cloud approach ensures real-time data access and efficient C2 capabilities across all locations, supporting 18 networks and over 10,250 user accounts.

The development of the Collaborative Partner Environment (CPE) network is prioritized, consolidating coalition and partner networks to create a more responsive and flexible mission command capability with a focus on zero-trust and data-centricity.