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U.S. Army aims to modernize traditional command post structure

By Dean JohnsonJune 15, 2021

JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. - 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 7th Infantry Division, Lancer Brigade, was the first unit to test the new variance of the Command Post Integrated Infrastructure (CPI2) during a brigade validation exercise, in an effort to reduce the size of the traditional command post structure and enable units to become more expeditionary.

To increase the mobility and survivability of the command post structure; the Army has introduced the CPI2 as one of its top priorities for network modernization.

“We were set up in 29 minutes, but within 45 minutes we emplaced the entire brigade tactical operations center footprint compared to the old estimate which was three hours total, so it’s three times faster when we use these vehicles,” Maj. Ryan Genard, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team Communications Officer said when setting up the new command post.

CPI2 Test Site
The 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division at Joint Base Lewis-McChord conducts a validation exercise (VALEX) of prototype command post equipment in support of PEO C3T’s Command Post Integrated Infrastructure (CPI2) program. During the VALEX, the unit establishes and tests their tactics, techniques, and procedures to ensure they can use the equipment properly based on their mission. Credit: U.S. Army (Photo Credit: Spc. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL

The CPI2 program is separated into two development stages that run simultaneously in order to implement the best product to the soldiers. The first stage involves research and development, formal design, prototyping and user feedback. The second stage of the program involves the integration of communications systems, alternative mobile command post platforms, and electromagnetic spectrum reduction.

Lancer Brigade is currently undergoing increased testing with the CPI2 vehicles in order to shape future iterations. Feedback and best practices from increased testing will be incorporated into future designs.

Genard said, “We [Lancer Brigade] are the stryker brigade test unit for the CPI2. It enhances, or increases, the mobility and lethality of the command post. It’s a faster self-sustaining command and control infrastructure that allows a stryker brigade combat team to have multiple sets of command and control equipment instead of having just one set in a centralized location. Now all ten vehicles have that same capability they didn’t own before.”

Operational Assessment
The 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division put the Command Post Integrated Infrastructure (CPI2) program through its paces during the Operational Assessment (OA) held at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. During the OA, the unit has completed multiple jumps—including several in one day—to test the CPI2 system’s mobility and ease of setup and tear down. Credit: U.S. Army (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

This continuous integration, experimentation and feedback incorporates Soldier Touch Points with three selected units: 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division at Joint Base Lewis McChord, Washington; 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division-Air Assault at Fort Campbell, Kentucky; and 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson, Colorado.

“As soon as we arrive, the trucks are wirelessly connecting to each other while also maintaining separation so you’re more resistant to an enemy attack whether it’s by indirect or direct fire,” Genard said.

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