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Warfighter Information Network-Tactical Increment 2

Thursday June 18, 2015

What it is?

The Warfighter Information Network-Tactical (WIN-T) Increment 2 is a critical part of the Army’s tactical network modernization strategy and the backbone of its network capability sets. Combat vehicles integrated with WIN-T Increment 2 provide the on-the-move communications, mission command and situational awareness that commanders need to lead from anywhere on the battlefield.

Following extensive development and testing, the Army has received approval to proceed to full rate production (FRP) and fielding of WIN-T Increment 2. The approval was the result of a Defense Acquisition Board review of the program conducted on May 11, 2015. The FRP decision enables the program office to procure and field the capability to all remaining Army units that are projected to receive WIN-T Increment 2.

Why is it important to the Army?

WIN-T Increment 2 enables deployed Soldiers down to the company level operating in remote and challenging terrain to maintain voice, video and data communications while on patrol. It supports expeditionary operations by enabling commanders to use mission command and advanced communications capabilities on-the-move in their vehicles, untethering them from the stationary command post so they can lead their forces from the heart of the fight. The capability also extends disparate radio networks so dismounted Soldiers remain connected, despite vast distances or terrain obstacles such as mountains.

What has the Army done?

U.S. Soldiers have already deployed with and utilized the system in Afghanistan, where commanders referred to it as their “digital guardian angel.” As the fixed network infrastructure was dismantled and forward operating bases closed down during retrograde operations, Security Force Assistance Brigades were still able to conduct their missions and effectively communicate by employing the satellite and terrestrial communication and mission command capabilities of WIN-T Increment 2.

To date, the Army has fielded WIN-T Increment 2 capability to 12 brigade combat teams and four division headquarters from the 10th Mountain Division, 82nd Airborne Division, 101st Airborne Division, 2nd Infantry Division, and the 1st Armored Division.

What continued efforts does the Army have planned for the future?

The FRP decision enables the program office to procure and field the capability to all remaining Army units that are projected to receive WIN-T Increment 2 through FY2029. The program will continue to improve, enhance and simplify WIN-T Increment 2 capability through technical refreshment and engineering change proposals.

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