Budget Account
2035A - Other Procurement, Army
Budget Activity
02 - Communications and electronics equipment
Description
The Tactical Network Technology Modernization in Service (TNT MIS) program is a significant initiative under the Army's Network Modernization Priority. It aims to enhance the Army's Tactical Network Transport capabilities, supporting strategic goals for 2030 and 2040 by updating communication systems that have been in service for over two decades. The primary objective is to ensure seamless connectivity among mobile and dispersed forces, facilitating information sharing across the Army's global network, joint and multinational elements, and the Department of Defense Information Network (DoDIN).
A major aspect of TNT MIS involves upgrading the Regional Hub Nodes (RHNs), which serve as the backbone of the network architecture. These upgrades include engineering, certification, and installation of antennas, along with procurement of modems, routers, switches, and software. The RHNs provide critical regionalized reach-back capabilities via commercial and military satellite communications.
Additionally, the program focuses on modernizing Satellite Transportable Terminals (STTs) to enhance network speed, capacity, and resiliency through emerging technologies like Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellites. The modernization efforts extend to Communications Nodes Modernization and Scalable Network Nodes (SNN), which aim to reduce life cycle costs by consolidating capabilities onto common Commercial Off-the-Shelf (COTS) solutions.
These efforts are crucial for maintaining cyber security and electronic warfare resiliency while addressing technological obsolescence. The program also includes hardware procurement for Armored Formation Network On-the-Move (AFN OTM), enhancing tactical networking reachability and resilience for armored units.
TNT MIS aligns with the Army's Mission Command Network Modernization Implementation Plan by introducing new technologies that bolster cyber defenses and operational agility. By replacing outdated components with advanced systems, TNT MIS ensures that commanders can maintain communications in contested environments while reducing system complexity. This modernization is essential for maintaining the Army's position as a leading land force capable of secure communication with allied services and coalition partners.