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Capability Set 13 Fielding

What is it?

A Capability Set is a package of network components, associated equipment and software that provides an integrated network capability from the static Tactical Operations Center (TOC) to the dismounted Soldier. Capability Sets will be distributed throughout a combat formation and its supporting elements, from the brigade command post to the commander on the move to the dismounted Soldier. This process, known as Capability Set Management, is a significant departure from the previous practice of fielding systems individually and often to only one element of the operational force at a time. Capability Set Management is executed in a deliberate and disciplined process in accordance with the Army Force Generation Process, or ARFORGEN.

As part of the Agile Capabilities Life Cycle Process, all Network capability sets will be operationally evaluated and technically integrated using a Brigade Combat Team (BCT) conducting Network Integration Evaluations (NIE). NIEs bring Soldiers, materiel developers and engineers together in a realistic operational environment to guide the selection of mature capabilities for inclusion in Capability Sets. NIEs influence doctrinal and material make up of each Capability Set. The first Capability Set, Capability Set 13 (CS 13) will begin fielding to units in the 10th Mountain Division this October.

What has the Army done?

Synchronized fielding efforts are now underway to deliver CS 13 to the Army's deploying BCTs. CS 13 will field a network baseline anchored on integration of satellite-based communications and terrestrial networking radios, which can be adjusted annually based on changing requirements, emerging technology and operational feedback from the NIEs. CS 13 provides enhanced capability over current theater provided network equipment and is anchored by two major upgrades: Mission Command on the Move, allowing commanders to take the network with them via the Warfighter Information Network-Tactical (WIN-T) Increment 2, and bringing dismounted Soldiers into the Network by empowering ground troops with a new level of real-time information through advanced radios and handheld devices.

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

CS 13 will field to eight Infantry BCTs (with priority to units deploying or preparing to deploy to Operation Enduring Freedom and a forward stationed brigade in Korea). The synchronization of CS 13, and its follow on set, Capability Set 14, with vehicle platforms in Infantry, Stryker and Armored Brigade Combat Teams will lead to the development of an affordable plan that provides improved Mission Command Capability, leverages vehicle modernization and is operationally focused.

Why is this important to the Army?

CS 13 addresses11 critical Operational Need Statements (ONS) submitted by theater combatant commanders. Aligning network and vehicle modernization plans through Capability Set Management will ensure that Army investments and technology advancements yield the greatest benefit to deployed and deploying forces.

Resources:

Army Network Modernization
STAND-TO!: Network Capability Set Fielding
Related article: Army rolls out networked Capability Set 13