Data Transport and Networking

This is not a New Start. FY 2025-2026 UDL funds are allocated in the Space Situation Awareness Operations (SSAO) Program Element (PE) 1203940SF and in FY2027+ UDL funds transferred to a new Program Element (PE) 1203156SF, Project 673941, Unified Data Library (UDL). The UDL project (673941) supports integration, exploitation, and delivery of Space Domain Awareness (SDA) and other space-related data sources for C2 and battle management of space forces. It focuses on enabling data sharing, establishing the data architecture required to aggregate multi-sensor data for broader use at different classification levels, transforming any-source data into normalized, usable information via data exploitation tools, followed by data handoff to Battle Management Command and Control mission systems to support actual space operations. The UDL will directly connect to dedicated USSF collateral, contributing and non-traditional sensors and systems with modernized interfaces and transport options to broadly expose data. The UDL will be the single source for accessing and managing all data in support of the USSF, providing a central location to find and access data, enabling superior analytics.

This is not a new start. In FY 2027, Cyber Secure Mission Data Transport, known as meshONE-Terrestrial or meshONE-T, efforts were transferred from PE 1203110SF, Satellite Control Network (SPACE), Project 673276, to PE 1203156SF, Data Transport & Networking, Project 673944, meshONE-T, in order to consolidate data transport and networking efforts to provide greater transparency and alignment of common functions. The meshONE-T (M1T) system provides an enterprise networking capability for USSF and other customers through proliferation of nodes utilizing diversified long-haul communication circuits to provide high speed, scalable, resilient, cyber-secure transport services for mission data producers and consumers. These services are operated and managed via Enterprise Service Desk (ESD) / Network Operation Center (NOC) sites. The multi-tenant, mission-agnostic system uses Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS)-based solutions and industry standard protocols to move data traffic quickly, efficiently, and securely across the Internet Protocol (IP)-based network architecture. M1T meets the needs of the Combatant Commands—with specific focus on USINDOPACOM and USEUCOM. Modern mission data transport services will support Next-Gen and Future Operationally Resilient Ground Evolution (FORGE) Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR), Advanced Battle Management System (ABMS), Missile Track Custody (MTC), Space Domain Awareness (SDA), SCN, USSF Integrated Operations Networking (ION), Launch and Test Range System (LTRS), and other mission partners. Supplementary/backup NOCs, communication links, bandwidth upgrades, and system improvements increase global operational reach, resiliency, and responsiveness to support warfighter operations through all phases of conflict. Software defined networking capabilities accelerate onboarding of new mission partners and the delivery of transport services, providing the agility necessary to counter emerging threats. M1T resolves current space mission network shortfalls including antiquated protocols, bandwidth constraints, lack of resiliency, cyber vulnerability, and excessive fielding times. All mission partners using M1T will become part of the USSF ground network enterprise, with access to every node and network-provided cyber-secure services.

This is not a New Start. In FY 2027, funds for Integrated Operations Networking (ION) are transferred from PE 1203010SF, Project 646602 to PE 1203156SF, Project 673945. The USSF's Integrated Operations Networking (ION) effort is a critical component of the Space Force's mission to enable the Battle Management, Command, Control, and Communications (BMC3) warfighter missions. ION will integrate commercially available information technology (IT) capabilities to address urgent operational needs and close networking gaps tied to kill chain gaps identified by Space Forces - Space operating in support of USSPACECOM. ION aims to improve tactical and operational timelines within the kill-chain to enable USSF's ability to deliver credible combat power effects in support of the Joint Force. The program will focus on developing a secure, reliable, and multi-classification transport layer to support space missions, with an emphasis on direct connection between all elements of force packages, establishing a special access program (SAP)-level network with overlays, and developing high-speed connectivity and high resilience to Commercial Cloud Services (C2S). The ION program will also pursue opportunities to leverage existing efforts, such as meshONE-T, to support the development of ION. Funding in FY 2027 will enable the program to maintain a steady pace of execution throughout the year, ensuring that the Space Force can leverage the ION capability to enhance its mission effectiveness. The ION program will provide a critical capability to the Space Force, enabling the service to operate in a contested environment and to defend against adversary operations. The program will be executed in a manner that is consistent with the Space Force's priorities, including the development of a digital engineering ecosystem, the implementation of zero trust capabilities, and the modernization of cryptography and supply chain risk management.