Warfighter Information Network-Tactical (WIN-T)

Accelerating the Transformation

WIN-T is the Army’s on-the-move, high-speed, high-capacity backbone communications network, linking Warfighters on the battlefield with the Global Information Grid (GIG).

WIN-T is a critical enabler of LandWarNet. WIN-T introduces a mobile, ad-hoc, self-configuring, self-healing network using satellite on-the-move capabilities, robust network management, and high-bandwidth radio systems to keep mobile forces connected, communicating, and synchronized

WIN-T Increment 1

Networking at-the-halt

The Joint Network Node (JNN) is now WIN-T Increment 1. WIN-T Increment 1 is defined as providing “networking at-the-halt” and is further divided into two sub increments defined as WIN-T Increment 1a, “extended networking at-the-halt”, and WIN-T Increment 1b, “enhanced networking at-the-halt”. WIN-T Increment 1 is a Joint compatible communications package that allows the Warfighter to use advanced networking capabilities, retain interoperability with current force systems, and keep in step with future increments of WIN-T. Increment 1 is a rapidly deployable, early-entry system housed in an S-250 shelter and mounted on an ECV HMMWV for roll-on/roll-off mobility.

WIN-T Increment 1a upgrades the former Joint Network Node (JNN) satellite capability to access the Ka-band defense Wideband Global Satellite (WGS), reducing reliance on commercial Ku-band satellite.

WIN-T Increment 1b introduces the Net Centric Waveform (NCW), a dynamic waveform that optimizes bandwidth and satellite utilization. It also introduces a colorless core security architecture, which meets Global Information Grid Information Assurance (IA) security compliance requirements.

Benefits:

• Provides Internet-based connectivity to the Warfighter
• Seamless interoperability with current and future tactical networks
• Supports satellite and line of sight connectivity
• Provides DISN services down to Battalion level

WIN-T Increment 2

Initial Networking on-the-move

WIN-T Increment 2 adds Warfighter mobility and provides a communication network down to the Company level. Tactical Communication nodes in Increment 2 are the first step to providing a mobile infrastructure on the battlefield. Combined with mobile Points of Presence, Vehicle Wireless Packages, and Soldier Network Extensions, Increment 2 enables mobile battle command from Division to Company in a completely ad-hoc, self-forming network. The WIN-T Increment 2 addition of embedding communications gear in the Commander’s vehicles enables SIPR (Secure Internet Protocol Router) into the Warfighting platform. Commanders and select staff have the ability to maneuver anywhere on the battlefield and maintain connectivity to the network.

Increment 2 NetOps delivers Automated Planning for WIN-T Net Centric waveforms - Highband Network Waveform (NCW and HNW), propagation analysis for Line Of Sight (LOS) waveforms, On-The-Move (OTM) node planning, automated link planning for currently fielded systems, initial automated Spectrum Management, initial Quality of Service (QoS) planning & monitoring, map based monitoring, and over the air network management and configuration of WIN-T Radios. Additionally Increment 2 Network Operations (NetOps) automates the initial IP planning and router configuration.

WIN-T Increment 2 will deliver an initial on-the-move broadband networking capability using satellite and radio links, with fielding scheduled to begin in 2009. Increment 2 will focus on mobile formations, specifically Brigade Combat teams, to allow nodes to operate on-the-move from Division and Brigade down to Company levels. There will be a developmental and limited user test of Increment 2 capabilities early in FY09.

Benefits:

• Retains all of the capabilities of Increment 1
• Reuses static elements of WIN-T Inc 1 (JNN)
• Adds Warfighter mobility
• Extends network connectivity to Company level
• Leverages Network Operations software to keep mobile network infrastructure connected and simplify the ability to configure the network
• Increases network capacity

WIN-T Increment 3

Full Networking on-the-move

Increment 3 provides full network mobility and introduces the air tier providing a three-tiered architecture; traditional line-of-sight, airborne through the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), other airborne platforms, and satellites. Additionally Increment 3 is aligned with Future Combat Systems (FCS) and introduces embedded JC4ISR radios into the FCS platforms. Increment 3 addresses the size, weight, power, and cooling requirements for systems to be hosted in FCS vehicles.

Increment 3 NetOps delivers full Network Management, Information Dissemination Management, and Information Assurance Planning, Monitoring, Administration, and Response (PAMR); Spectrum Planning and Management for all battlefield emitters.

WIN-T Increment 3 will continue development of WIN-T components to meet the full range of network capacity, security, and full on-the-move capabilities for the modular force with limited user testing scheduled to begin in 2011. Fielding is projected around 2014.

Benefits:

• Retains all of the capabilities of Increments 1 and 2
• Increases Warfighter mobility
• Leverages the air tier to extend connectivity and enable reach on the battlefield
• Leverages Network Operations software to keep mobile network infrastructure connected and simplify the ability to configure the network
• Increases network capacity

WIN-T Increment 4

Protected Satellite Communications

WIN-T Increment 4 represents the last of the developmental program elements and will provide technology insertions to enable enhanced satellite communications protection and greater throughput afforded by transformational communications satellites. Increment 4 is a long-term upgrade program, to bring more new technology and take advantage of extra bandwidth from the Defense Department's planned Transformational Satellite Communications (TSAT) program. The TSAT program is still early in its own development. Integration between WIN-T and TSAT is expected to occur around 2016.

These technologies are leveraged in today’s commercial and military networks and enhanced by incorporating clear, well-planned roadmaps into its architecture. With these roadmaps the WIN-T network is future-proofed and well positioned to readily incorporate new technology capabilities as they become available.

WIN-T Team