Military

6-1. There are seven potential sources of communications assets to the theater of operations for the execution of the CINC or CJTF's or operational intent. In some theaters, part or all of these sources may be well developed; in others, they may be underdeveloped or nonexistent.

6-2. These are military tactical communications assets organic to assigned theater ARFOR, Air Force Forces (AFFOR), Navy Forces (NAVFOR), Marine Forces (MARFOR), and SOC forces. These assets interconnect under the direction and management of the CINC/JTF C3 systems directorate (J6) to form a hybrid network that is called the TCS.

6-3. These communications assets normally support base operations at posts, camps, and stations worldwide. The USASC manages US Army assets. Other services have similar operations. During war, these systems continue to support routine garrison operations, as well as any intermediate staging of mobilizing or deploying forces.

6-4. These communications assets provide connectivity between the sustaining base and theater/tactical environments on a worldwide basis. The DISA has overall management responsibility for the DISN. The USASC manages the segments of strategic systems provided by the Army. During war, at the direction of the CINC, these systems may be reconstituted or extended into the JOA via tactical communications assets. These systems provide the JOA with critical C2 gateways to the sustaining-base environment.

6-5. These are existing US commercial communications systems throughout the world. These assets are made available through the Defense Certification Office-Army (DCO-A). As the Army's advocate for telecommunications, the DCO-A manages Army service requests for leased commercial communications. The CINC/JTF J6 must validate these service requests.

6-6. These are existing commercial and tactical communications systems provided by combined forces. Interoperability with these systems is not well documented and continues to be an item of serious study by the various CINC staffs and the Joint Interoperability Engineering Organization (JIEO).

6-7. These are tactical US military communications assets under the direct OPCON of the CJCS. These assets may be organic to a joint organization such as the JCSE or to a tactical unit of one of the services. The TSC may submit a Chairman, Joint Chief of Staff Instruction (CJCSI) 6110.01 request to release CJCS-controlled assets to support theater requirements for which assets are not available in the JOA. This request is required before deploying a tactical unit of one of the services that has organic CJCS-controlled assets.

6-8. These are communications assets, indigenous to foreign nations, used to support the public. Past operations have demonstrated the importance of a complete understanding of these systems. Sophistication and availability vary from theater to theater and country to country. It is especially important at EAC to understand the availability of these systems and the requirements to interface with them.

6-9. The TCS provides circuit or message switches and direct access to various worldwide DOD networks. Some of these DOD networks are briefly discussed in this section.

6-10. AUTODIN is the principal, long-haul, DOD automatic digital network. It provides message switching to transmit record data traffic on a store and forward basis between AUTODIN switching centers, tactical message switching equipment (such as the TYC-39[A]), and fixed or transportable subscriber terminals. Types of subscriber terminals include teletypewriters, teleprinters, local digital message exchanges, and computers.

6-11. AUTODIN is designed around remote, interconnected AUTODIN switching centers. Subscribers may access the AUTODIN switching centers using the Allied Communications Publication (ACP) 127, Joint Army-Navy-Air Force Publication (JANAP) 128(I), US Message Text Format (USMTF), and Defense Operating Instructions (DOI) 103 formats. The AUTODIN switching centers transmit record or data traffic between dissimilar terminals by virtue of code, format, and line-speed conversions. AUTODIN switching centers processes GENSER, or R type traffic, and Defense Special Security Communications System (DSSCS), or Y type traffic, separately. Elaborate security measures protect against the inadvertent transmission of DSSCS traffic to unauthorized terminals.

6-12. Tactical theater subscribers usually gain switched access to the AUTODIN via the AN/TYC-39(A) message switch. The AN/TYC-39(A) emulates an AUTODIN switching center in capabilities and characteristics. This switch is a store and forward message system that forms the message switched network at theater level and can provide a gateway to AUTODIN and allied networks.

6-13. There are currently two messaging classes: organizational and individual. AUTODIN provides the majority of organizational messaging. Within the DISN, standard mail transfer protocol (SMTP)-based systems and other proprietary LAN-based e-mail systems provide individual messaging. Users demand additional features that SMTP-based systems do not provide. Users also want to connect to a single system that provides both organizational and individual messaging capabilities.

6-14. AUTODIN is based on 30-year old technology with high operational costs and staffing. DMS updates this technology while lowering the operational costs and level of staffing. DMS is implemented in three phases. A transitional phase is underway with the placement of some gateways between AUTODIN and DISN, allowing AUTODIN and SMTP users on DISN to exchange messages.

• Phase I. With the initial fielding of Phase I, some DMS components will be added to DISN. DMS Phase I security level will be unclassified but sensitive.
• Phase II. During this phase, transitional components will replace some of the AUTODIN components, and users will begin to transition to the new services. DMS is MLS.
• Phase III. During this phase, the SMTP and AUTODIN systems will disband. All e-mail and AUTODIN users will transition to X.400/X.500/DMS.

6-15. The DSN is the principal common-user, switched, nonsecure voice communications network within the DISN that provides long-haul voice communications.

6-16. The CONUS DSN consists of commercial-leased facilities, while OCONUS DSN is principally government owned.

6-17. The DSN processes traffic using common control cell switching and stored program routing. A multilevel precedence and preemption (MLPP) feature is used to ensure completion of high precedence telephone calls. The DSN accommodates all levels of precedence.

6-18. Tactical subscribers usually gain common-user, circuit switched access to DSN via the TCS. Interswitch trunks (ISTs) are established between DSN switching centers and several TCS gateways employing an AN/TTC-39(A) circuit-switch. Call processing throughout the circuit switched network supports the DSN MLPP features. The ISTs may be established to support any level of precedence and preemption. Subscribers must be individually class-marked in the network switching database for DSN access and maximum precedence allowed.

6-19. The DISN consists of three IP router networks separated by classification level.

• NIPRNET, which replaces military network (MILNET).
• SIPRNET, which replaces DISNET 1, 2, and 3. NOTE: SIPRNET provides transport for the TOP SECRET Support System (TSSS).
• Joint Worldwide Intelligence Communications System (JWICS) (TOP SECRET [TS]/sensitive compartmented information [SCI]).

6-20. The formal definition for DISN was originally established by the Assistant Secretary of Defense for C3I. It states--

A subelement of the Defense Information Infrastructure, the DISN is the DOD's consolidated worldwide enterprise-level telecommunications infrastructure that provides the end-to-end information transfer network for supporting military operations. It is transparent to its users, facilitates the management of information resources, and is responsive to national security and defense needs under all conditions in the most efficient manner.

6-21. The new DISNs provide the warfighter with a full range of government-controlled and secure information transfer services for exchanging voice, video, data, and imagery to support warfighter requirements into the 21st Century. It will be structured to satisfy requirements that are evolving in response to changing military strategy, changing threat conditions, and advances in information and communications technology.

6-22. The chosen alternatives maximize the use of commodity services that exploit off-the-shelf technology. DISA will capitalize on efforts and resources previously expended in consolidating the DISN router and multiplexer networks. Multiple procurements will be executed for the replacement of expiring contracts and aging systems (MILNET, DSNET).

6-23. The DISN architecture represents a technological evolution from the use of networks and systems that are owned and operated by the DOD to the use of commodity services wherever possible. DISN is the subset of the DII, primarily providing information transport services in and across the DII boundaries. The DII is a seamless web of communications networks, computers, software, databases, applications, and other capabilities that meet the information processing and transport needs of DOD users in peace, crises, conflict, humanitarian support, and wartime roles.

6-24. The DII is a subset of the government systems information infrastructure, which provides the same service functions for the US government. DII is also a subset of the national information infrastructure and the global information infrastructure, providing the same service functions for the nation, including private and commercial concerns.

6-25. Tactical theater subscribers access the DISN via the TCS. Access methods depend on the theater of operations. Access may be via a sustaining-base host computer, tactical host computer, a tactical Army CSS computer system (TACCS), or a tactical packet switched network (PSN).

6-26. The GCCS is an AIS used to support deliberate and crisis planning with the use of an integrated set of analytic tools and flexible data transfer capabilities. It provides a means to migrate from the proprietary architecture of the Worldwide Military Command and Control System (WWMCCS) to an open systems architecture. The GCCS provides combatant and supporting commanders with the required C2 capabilities that the WWMCCS provided, plus much more. When fully implemented, GCCS will become the single C4I system to support the warfighter from the foxhole to the CP. The goal is to implement GCCS by linking LANs by SIPRNET among the CINCs and supporting defense agencies. The Army's portion of the GCCS is the GCCS-A.

6-27. DSCS is the DOD high capacity transcontinental transmission system, providing long-haul service between CONUS and various OCONUS locations. Operating in the extremely high frequency (EHF)/SHF bands, the space and associated ground segments provide critical strategic connectivity and directly support the GMF.

6-28. DSCS normally provides theater access to the DISN. DSCS can provide analog and digital transmission paths for virtually every type of military telecommunications application. In the JOA, GMF/SHF provides theater access to the DSCS. Special user requirements can be accommodated via the DSCS with JCS approval. These requirements are for critical voice and secure voice (2.4 to 50 kbps), computer-to-computer connectivity (9.6 to 56 kbps), and low-to-medium speed (75 bps to 4.8 kbps) data/teletype duplex circuits.

6-29. As the CINC describes his operational intent, theater strategy, and campaign plans, communications at the theater level must be an integration of all the multigeneration advanced communications systems throughout the JOA. Communications equipment and facilities cannot be employed in the JOA without regard for overall theater system integration and the standards and procedures established by the CINC.

6-30. In general, the TCS--

• Supports joint or combined US military and allied/host country forces.
• Provides inter-theater and intra-theater common-user services for component elements and allied/host forces.
• Integrates all communications, component services, equipment, and personnel into a composite system. These can include DISN/DSCS entry and exit station, mobile/transportable equipment, and submarine cable heads.
• Links with the DISN to provide worldwide connections.
• Connects theater headquarters to each component service and allied/host forces headquarters.

6-31. The theater C2 and support systems include both communications and automation systems. The area common-user system (ACUS) consists of communications equipment and facilities installed, operated, and maintained for common-user access by the Army. The ACUS, primary provider of Army EAC subscriber access to communications at theater level, simultaneously provides theater level network switching, gateway access, and redundancy. The GCCS-A is a user-owned, operated, and automated C2 support system used throughout the operational continuum. GCCS-A assists theater commanders in the execution of crisis and wartime EAC sustainment and limited operational maneuver functions. Centralized control and management of the TCS, associated communications facilities (by signal support units), and automated C2 support systems (by commanders and staffs) are imperative. They are fundamental to survivable, robust, and redundant communications and automation support at the theater level in support of the CINC's intent.

6-32. Communications at the theater level employ an area nodal topology, with the AN/TTC-39(D) family of circuit switches as the key piece of equipment in an area node (see Figure 6-1). The AN/TTC-39(D) provides subscriber access and tandem switching to the area node. The area node primarily provides tandem switching for communications at the theater level, while generally supporting a few loop devices. Redundant trunking of these circuit switches forms the basis of the theater architecture.

6-33. Extension nodes, either the SEN or the large extension node (LEN), provide subscriber access on a geographic area basis at the theater level. Extension nodes connect to an area node for tandem switching and network access. SENs connect to one area node, and LENs connect to two area nodes. The LENs support large command group clusters.

6-34. Terminal instruments for subscribers at the theater level are generally user-owned and user-operated. The only exception is when the signal unit is supporting a non-army unit (joint or multidepartmental), then the signal unit provides the necessary equipment to effectively accomplish the mission. In addition to secure and nonsecure digital voice terminals, there are:

• Personal computers and integrated services digital network (ISDN) terminals.
• Processor driven, single subscriber communications terminals for access to the message switched network and AUTODIN (GENSER and DSSCS).

Lightweight digital facsimile machines.

6-35. Data ports on some voice terminals allow for data transmission on a dial-up basis.

6-36. Through unified commands, DISA, and military services, the CJCS ensures that the commander at each echelon has the communications necessary to accomplish his assigned mission. The required communications capability is provided from the DISN, other national level agencies' communications systems, or other DOD communications systems.

6-37. The director of the DISA provides engineering support, technical support, and commercial leasing assistance to the JCCC. This ensures seamless architecture and satisfaction of user requirements for the DISN interfaces and fulfillment of any requirements of the NCA and GCCS.

6-38. The CINC prepares and submits to the CJCS (with information copies to the services, defense agencies, and the JIEO) requirements for tactical communications capabilities for joint operations within the scope of their respective missions and functions. Included are the requirements for JCS-controlled mobile/transportable communications assets, when normal military departments or military service processes do not satisfy such requirements. The CINC controls, reviews, and coordinates assigned communications resources and actions affecting C4 resources. Tactical communications in the JOA and/or theater is phased-in and established according to appropriate plans and orders. These are prepared based on CJCSM 6231 Series.

6-39. The CINC reports to the director, DISA incompatibilities or lack of interoperability among tactical C3 systems and between tactical systems and the DISN. As a part of JCS-sponsored or command-sponsored exercises, the CINC tests the communications portions of the appropriate operation plan (OPLAN).

6-40. Service components and subordinate unified commands submit requirements for all tactical and strategic communications equipment applicable to joint operations through the CINCs to the military departments or services according to required operational capability procedures. CINCs biannually submit a C4 system master plan to the CJCS.

6-41. The US unified commander provides communications between the unified headquarters and the US service component headquarters and, as required, to other US government agencies and allied commands within the theater of operations. The US unified commander assigns these communications tasks to one or more of the service components.

6-42. The US unified commander normally assigns the J6 the task of planning and managing the TCS. The J6, in conjunction with the service components, develops a responsive and redundant secure and nonsecure communications system to ensure positive C2 during each critical phase of operations in the JOA. The J6 places emphasis on the planning and engineering requirements for a joint, integrated circuit switched network supporting communications at the theater level.

6-43. The JIEO, in coordination with the unified commands, develops technical interoperability standards for tactical communications use during joint operations.

6-44. The J6 establishes the JCCC to manage and control the TCS. The JCCC establishes and promulgates the plans, policies, and procedures used to implement, monitor, direct, and control the TCS. Each service component establishes a similar staff to interface with the JCCC. The TSC has this responsibility for the Army. Changes to the TCS are not made without prior approval of the JCCC. With the advent of TRI-TAC automatic switching systems, which require intensive database management to ensure interoperability throughout the switching network, the JCCC takes on the role of the network manager for the TCS.

6-45. Each service component is generally tasked to install, operate, and maintain a portion of the communications at the theater level. The integration of each of the service component's communications equipment provides for joint common-user access on a geographic area basis at the theater level. The CINC/J6 may task an individual component to install, operate, and maintain a portion of the TCS that is in direct and primary support of another service component. The CINC/J6 may also task the TSC to take on the unified theater role as either the J6 or the JCCC. All service components should comply with joint communications doctrine as prescribed in JCS publications and as supplemented by the US unified commander.

6-46. At the theater level, commanders need to have a robust information system that supports the CINC's operational intent. Theater level information systems must accurately process and disseminate information in sufficient time for forces to process and respond appropriately. The goal of the theater level information system is to enhance and facilitate agility, initiative, depth, synchronization, and versatility on the battlefield. This concept supports implementation, operation, and signal support management in the theater/tactical environment.

6-47. Individuals collect, process, store, create, and distribute information to support the commander. Information systems are built to perform these same functions. The user of an information system determines what information is needed to support the commander. Users own and operate the requisite means to provide that information. Information managers determine how the information is collected, processed, transferred, presented, stored, and disposed of when no longer needed. Centralized control is a constraint rather than an aid in such an environment. However, a consistent direction is necessary and information management provides that direction.

6-48. The commander manages of his information just as any other critical resource. The commander is assisted in his information management role by his signal element, which has the responsibility to provide the technical direction, assistance, and integration of the required support.

6-49. The approved concept of user-owned and user-operated with TSC advice and technical assistance is fundamental. The user-owned and user-operated concept means that the commander manages information by operating owned information systems (hardware, software, and people) to create and use information internal to his needs. The commander must rely on external information systems to distribute and retrieve information external to his command.

6-50. The TSC provides interfaces to external systems, as well as the technical oversight and direction that produce an integrated system of systems. The concept is extended to individual responsibilities, since the production, control, dissemination, and disposal of information is the responsibility of the originator or user of the information. The TSC provides the interfaces for transferring permanent battlefield information and records to Army and national archives.

6-51. Information management at the theater level includes all resources and activities employed in the acquisition, development, collection, processing, integration, transmission, dissemination, distribution, use, retention, retrieval, maintenance, access, disposal, security, and management of information.

6-52. Theater level tactical signal support is the implementation of signal support at the strategic through tactical levels of war. It is also the collective, integrated, and synchronized use of information systems to support warfighting capabilities across the operational continuum.

6-53. The concept of signal support at the theater level is more than communications and involves more than the TSC. Signal support consists of the disciplines of communications, automation, and VI.

6-54. Technological advances are causing the disciplines to converge on a common foundation. Today's manual methods are being converted to automated processes. Smaller, more sophisticated and powerful devices have led to the era of user-owned and user-operated systems. All of the disciplines are evolving towards one integrated information system capability within the Army at the theater level.

6-55. At the theater level, the signal support disciplines must directly support the tactical commander. Each unit commander is ultimately responsible for how well the information created and used in his unit is managed. The primary office/staff supporting the commander in his information management responsibilities is the signal office.

6-56. The signal office/staff--

• Advises and assists the commander in the role as a coordinating staff office.
• Supports the operational needs of the headquarters by providing signal support to the commander's unit and tenant units in the area.
• Supports and manages the informational needs of the headquarters staff. This requires an expansion of the traditional role for the signal officer.

6-57. At the theater level, the division of responsibilities between the user, functional managers, and the signal office/staff is complex. Table 6-1 delineates signal support responsibilities to ASCC units and units traversing the COMMZ. Signal support will be tailored to meet the unique requirements of the specific theater and the operational intent of the US unified commander. AR 25-1 prescribes the policies and responsibilities for the management of information and information systems.

6-58. The signal officer's tool for the management and coordination of the BIS in support of the theater and subordinate unit headquarters is the Information Services Support Office (ISSO). BISs include correspondence, files and forms management, classified document control, Privacy Act and FOIA, distribution, printing, publications, official mail, and reproduction.

6-59. The ISSO has staff supervision responsibility for all BIS, recommending policy, procedures, standards, and conventions to facilitate information services support. The ISSO provides for the centralized execution of and central point of contact for BIS requiring centralized management to the headquarters (distribution and official mail, Privacy Act and FOIA, and printing requests).

6-60. An ISSO is established at every echelon at the theater level and is under the signal officer's control. At battalion and brigade, the S1 accomplishes the ISSO function. At support units with no organic supporting signal unit, the signal office is the proponent for information services on the staff. The functional staff remains responsible for its execution. The responsibilities of the ISSO at the theater level are listed in Table 6-2.

6-61. Each functional staff element implements signal support policies, procedures, and standards within the functional area of operation. For instance, the S3 provides internal distribution at the tactical operations center location when tactically deployed.

6-62. Generally, the signal unit, the ISSO, and signal staff at each echelon at the theater level will have the same mission and functions.