CHIPS Articles: The Joint Information Environment

Key Attributes

• The shared JIE technology infrastructure includes: a network that is defendable and virtually accessible from any location globally, strategic to tactical locations; DoD level consolidation of data centers and network operations centers; a single security architecture; and the use of enterprise services.
• The JIE infrastructure will look, feel and operate by common standards regardless of service provider and/or use (i.e., mission specific utilization) and will apply common tactics, techniques and procedures developed at the enterprise level.
• Capabilities required across DoD to enable information sharing, collaboration and interoperability will be provisioned as enterprise services. Email, Web access, mass data storage and data analytics for decision support will be provided to any access point.
• The JIE effort does not preclude the Navy from becoming a service provider for one or more designated enterprise services or infrastructure capabilities. As such, the Navy may be called upon to support the provisioning of enterprise service(s) for the entire DoD.
• The Navy will adopt JIE standards for existing programs of record and adapt to JIE standards and requirements in future IT modernization. For example, the Consolidated Afloat Networks and Enterprise Service (CANES) shipboard network will adapt to JIE standards to ensure interoperability.
• Navy components that operate and maintain portions of the shared IT infrastructure (i.e., switches, servers, routers, etc.) will do so in accordance with Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR) IT Technical Authority through the Joint Information Environment Technical Synchronization Office (led by the Defense Information Systems Agency), and with operational direction provided by U.S. Cyber Command.

The JIE will:

• Encompass all DoD networks.
• Enhance network security by employing a single security architecture.
• Save DoD IT resourcing dollars by minimizing network hardware, software and manpower.
• Provide DoD users with access to the network from anywhere in the world, to include afloat units.
• Be a network focused on protecting data as opposed to one that simply delivers hardware.

Moving to the JIE

The initial focus of JIE Increment One (Fiscal Years 2013–2014) is on achieving five core IT efficiencies in Europe:

• Network Normalization (virtualizing network applications by reducing legacy applications);
• Data Center Consolidation (from hundreds to tens);
• Identity and Access Management (single solution for all the components, services and agencies);
• Enterprise Services (email, Web and data storage); and
• Governance (single DoD-wide IT policy).

OPNAV N2/N6 is designated as the lead office for bringing the Navy’s intelligence, cyber warfare, command and control, electronic warfare, battle management and knowledge of the maritime environment areas together to align oversight, governance and synchronization mechanisms to deliver end-to-end insight and accountability for Navy information requirements, investments, capability development, and force development.