Special Section Tactical Communications
FROM
INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
NODES TO NETWORKS
Armor & Mobility highlights tactical communications by examining the U.S. Army’s newest capabilities in that arena. In particular, we look at two specific types of communication technology, Warfighter Information Network-Tactical (WIN-T), and Network Enablers (Net-E) and how a robust, expeditionary network can provide operational flexibility and increase situational awareness. Above all, both communication networks are part of the Army’s Program Executive Office Command, Control and Communications-Tactical (PEO-C3T). WIN-T contains a new tool suite, Network Operations (NetOps) that allows communications officers and their staff to carefully scrutinize the Army’s tactical communication network, and works to ensure Soldiers and Commanders are connected, synchronized and in constant communication. Net-E efficiently manages several programs that protect, connect and streamline the Army’s tactical network. Of note is the constant need to ensure security and fidelity of information transmitted via the tactical network, warfighter simplification and making sure software and collaborative technology is up-to-date to meet today’s everchanging needs.
GD MISSION SYSTEMS WIN-T – Relevant, timely, actionable supporting the Soldier’s mission
As the prime contractor for the Warfighter Information NetworkTactical (WIN-T), General Dynamics Mission Systems (GDMS) is partnering with PEO C3T on WIN-T Increment 3, which will continually build on and improve the WIN-T network. This ensures the network keeps pace with advancements in technology and security while providing Soldiers with a simplified user experience and access to a common operating picture based on timely, relevant and actionable information. A key aspect of Increment 3 is the network operations or “NetOps” suite of tools that enables communications officers to better monitor the WIN-T network while providing for improved training and ease of use. And as threats within cyberspace continue to evolve and grow, NetOps helps ensure the entire WIN-T network remains secure with seamless upgrades and network encryption. Increment 3 will also expand the reach of the WIN-T network to provide a fully mobile and flexible tactical networking capability needed to support a highly dispersed force over isolated areas. This is especially important as the Army transitions to a faster, leaner force to handle future threats and missions across the globe. Increment 3 will take the latest NetOps features to NIE 16.2 this spring as a System Under Test, which will serve as the FOT&E for the program. These NetOps enhancements will be provided as a technical insertion to the WIN-T network for fielding and support in 2017. More info: gdmissionsystems.com
14 | Armor & Mobility March 2016
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