Command, Control and Communications Systems

The Command Control and Communications Systems Program, under the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), aims to demonstrate and evaluate advanced information systems research and development concepts. The program focuses on providing effective communications to U.S. forces, ensuring timely, reliable, secure, and synchronized dissemination of command and control and relevant situational awareness information to every military echelon. This includes developing technologies such as high-capacity links, advanced networking technologies, low probability of detection and anti-jam technologies, and novel radio frequency and spectral sensing. Additionally, the program includes the Cyber Systems project which aims to develop operational prototypes based on cyber technology developed in applied research programs, in the private sector, and in academia. The utility of these prototypes will be assessed based on demonstrations and evaluations conducted in collaboration with warfighters, acquisition programs, and combatant commands.

The Information Integration Systems project within the Command, Control and Communications Systems Program specifically focuses on developing and demonstrating technologies that provide effective communications to U.S. forces. This includes ensuring assured high-bandwidth mobile wireless capabilities that match or exceed commercial wired infrastructure to meet the demands of military users. The project also aims to develop technologies such as high-capacity links, advanced networking technologies, low probability of detection and anti-jam technologies, and novel radio frequency and spectral sensing to support efficient spectrum management in congested environments and detection of electromagnetic threats. Additionally, the project includes specific plans for Space-Based Adaptive Communications Node (Space-BACN), Mission Integrated Network Control (MINC), Strategic Chaos Engine for Planning, Tactics, Experimentation and Resiliency (SCEPTER), and Air Space Total Awareness for Rapid Tactical Execution (ASTARTE) programs with detailed objectives for each.

Overall, the program's objectives are aligned with advancing technology development associated with command, control, communications systems to enhance military operations' effectiveness through improved communication capabilities while also addressing cyber security concerns.