Army’s Next-Generation Command and Control Relies on Software-Defined Networking for Battlefield Advantage
The U.S. Army is fundamentally reshaping how Soldiers access and utilize information on the battlefield with its Next Generation Command and Control (NGC2) program, and a key enabler of this transformation is software-defined networking (SDN).
Historically, command and control (C2) systems have been fragmented, designed for specific functions with data “stovepiped” based on warfighting functions and network configurations. This created limitations in delivering critical data to Soldiers in challenging environments – those that are denied, degraded, intermittent, or have low bandwidth. Now, the Army is adapting its network infrastructure to meet the demands of NGC2 and modern warfare.
The Rise of Software-Defined Networking
“NGC2 requires an intelligent network capable of rapidly adapting to mission needs,” explained Dr. John Franklin, a division chief within the U.S. Army Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C5ISR) Center. “SDN—a flexible, programmable, and adaptive network architecture—is essential to realizing that goal.”
Traditional network architectures struggle to keep pace with the increasing number of networked devices on the battlefield and the need for rapid reconfiguration to support evolving missions. SDN offers a dynamic solution, orchestrating network traffic, prioritizing data, and adapting in real-time. This capability is crucial for enabling autonomous systems, multi-domain formations, and the integration of edge-connected sensors. Importantly, SDN’s automation reduces the tactical complexity faced by Soldiers by minimizing configuration burdens at the edge, while simultaneously bolstering resilience in contested environments.
C5ISR Center Leads the Way in SDN Development
The C5ISR Center has been at the forefront of SDN capability development, supporting experimentation through initiatives like Project Convergence and the Network Modernization Experiment (NetModX) for several years. These efforts have been instrumental in refining and validating SDN technologies in realistic operational scenarios.
However, the successful implementation of SDN extends beyond technological advancements. It necessitates a collaborative ecosystem between government and industry, coupled with agile acquisition strategies.
“Only through open, adaptable interfaces shaped by both communities can we ensure interoperability, accelerate integration, and avoid the pitfalls of closed, monolithic solutions,” Franklin stated.
As a Science and Technology Reinvention Laboratory, the C5ISR Center is uniquely positioned to foster partnerships with industry, focusing on experimentation and validation of open SDN approaches. Current efforts, developed in collaboration with industry partners, are advancing AI-driven control mechanisms that allow networks to proactively anticipate disruptions and adapt accordingly. Through venues like NetModX and the Combined Joint Systems Integration Lab (CJSIL), the Center provides a robust infrastructure for testing SDN technologies under mission-relevant conditions.
Looking Ahead
The Army’s commitment to SDN is not merely about adopting new technology; it’s about fundamentally changing how information flows to empower Soldiers and enhance battlefield effectiveness. By embracing open standards, fostering collaboration, and leveraging the power of artificial intelligence, the Army is building a network that is as adaptable and resilient as the Warfighters it supports.
The U.S. Army Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Center is the Army’s applied research and advanced technology development center for C5ISR capabilities. As the Army’s primary integrator of C5ISR technologies and systems, DEVCOM C5ISR Center supports our networked Warfighters by identifying, developing, maturing, and rapidly integrating innovative technologies to drive continuous transformation.
DEVCOM C5ISR Center is an asset of the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command. DEVCOM is Army Futures Command’s leader and integrator within a global ecosystem of scientific exploration and technological innovation. DEVCOM expertise spans eight major competency areas to provide integrated research, development, analysis and engineering support to the Army and DOD. From rockets to robots, drones to dozers, and aviation to artillery – DEVCOM innovation is at the core of the combat capabilities American Warfighters need to win on the battlefield of the future. For more information, visit c5isrcenter.devcom.army.mil.
