ANG KC-135s require a robust, secure tactical data link (TDL) with visualized situational awareness (SA). Recent combat operations highlighted the need for comprehensive, networked command and control (C2) throughout all operational theaters. TDL provides near real-time monitoring of mission events, mission status, task completion, resource status, and enhances all participant’s SA. TDL provides a C2 link and maximizes aircrew SA with beyond line-of-sight (BLOS) and line-of-sight (LOS), military and commercial capabilities. TDL provides critical real-time information to KC-135 aircrews, such as friendly aircraft position, weather conditions, and hostile threat locations. Coupled with remote radio relay, the KC-135 can act as an intelligent gateway between BLOS coordination and LOS players via secure protocols (e.g. Joint Range Extension Application Protocol-C). Reach back capability is
extended by global high-speed data and the ability for secure, wireless data transfer. Additionally, to complement the MAF Mission System and to decrease aircrew workload, a comprehensive Quick Reaction Handbook is required to address the aircraft’s normal and abnormal operations. All 166 ANG KC-135s require TDL radios, processors, gateway functionality, and a Quick Reaction Handbook. Also, to satisfy operational and training needs,
ANG KC-135s require portable, secure connectivity for support to agile combat employment (ACE) operations. This connectivity should be sufficient to support a mission generation force element (4x KC-135s) package to include operations (mission planning, flight planning, scheduling, tasking), maintenance and logistics (sortie generation/aircraft maintenance coordination), and command and control connectivity. The system must support 10-20 users. This solution should be agnostic of internet service provider, mobile broadband service 3G/4G/5G, or local broadband internet. It must incorporate the appropriate high assurance internet protocol encryptor (HAIPE) for secure connections. This system should be expandable in terms of number of users and in terms additional security for higher classification systems. Each ANG KC-135 wing should have 1 device/solution per 4 assigned aircraft.