U.S. Army C2 Transformation: L3Harris Delivers Next-Generation Command and Control Solutions

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The U.S. Army is accelerating its efforts to modernize command and control (C2) capabilities, focusing on open, modular, and data-centric architectures designed to withstand contested operational environments. As adversaries increasingly challenge communications and spectrum access, the Army’s vision is to ensure resilient, high-throughput, and secure networks that can adapt to the demands of modern warfare. L3Harris Technologies is playing a pivotal role in this transformation, delivering next-generation communication solutions that guarantee spectrum dominance and adaptive transport layers for mission success.

Photo: l3harris.com

Next Generation C2 Gateway Manpack AN/PRC-158C

At the heart of this modernization effort is the AN/PRC-158C Next Generation C2 Gateway Manpack. This multi-channel routing device is engineered for high throughput and exceptional resilience, enabling soldiers to maintain reliable connectivity even in contested domains. The system is fully compatible with the Handheld, Manpack, and Small Form Fit (HMS) radios as well as the Integrated Tactical Network (ITN), ensuring seamless integration across Army platforms. Equipped with Denali® encryption, the AN/PRC-158C provides secure communications while reducing transition costs through drop-in compatibility.

The device is designed for scalability, supporting operations from the tactical edge to enterprise-level networks. Whether mounted on vehicles or carried dismounted, the AN/PRC-158C minimizes operator burden while maximizing mission effectiveness. Its modular design ensures that future upgrades can be implemented without costly overhauls, making it a cornerstone of the Army’s evolving C2 architecture.

TSM™ HDR+ Waveform for High-Capacity Data Operations

Modern missions demand the ability to move large volumes of data without bottlenecks, and the TSM™ HDR+ waveform delivers exactly that. With capacity up to 50 Mbps and support for 800 nodes, this waveform enables heavy data operations across the battlespace. Applications such as real-time video, sensor feeds, and mission-critical software can flow seamlessly without degradation.

The TSM™ HDR+ waveform is operational across multiple field systems, including the AN/PRC-171, 158C, 167, and 163 radios. This interoperability ensures that connectivity extends from individual soldiers at the tactical edge to command posts coordinating operations at higher echelons. By eliminating bottlenecks and expanding network reach, the waveform strengthens the Army’s ability to synchronize missions across dispersed units.

Resilient Waveform Portfolio for Contested Environments

In addition to high-capacity data transport, resilience in contested environments is essential. L3Harris offers a robust portfolio of resilient waveforms that guarantee continuity of operations. The SINCGARS FH3 waveform provides enduring interoperability with legacy systems, ensuring that modernization does not compromise existing capabilities. MUOS delivers beyond-line-of-sight connectivity, critical for operations where terrestrial links are unavailable.

For high-frequency (HF) communications, the Last Ditch Data waveform ensures strong performance even under degraded conditions. Meanwhile, advanced narrowband solutions such as ARROW, WRAITH, and WREN™ provide spectrum dominance in contested environments, enabling secure and reliable communications when adversaries attempt to disrupt or deny access. Together, these waveforms form a layered defense against spectrum threats, ensuring that mission networks remain operational under pressure.

Tactical Voice Gateway Adaptor Expands Connectivity

The Tactical Voice Gateway Adaptor extends the reach of Falcon radios into commercial networks, including 5G, 4G, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. Acting simultaneously as a modem and edge processor, the adaptor delivers high-performance edge computing in a low-SWaP (size, weight, and power) form factor. This capability allows soldiers to leverage commercial infrastructure while maintaining secure military-grade communications.

By bridging tactical radios with commercial technologies, the adaptor enhances flexibility and ensures that forces can adapt to diverse operational environments. Whether deployed in urban areas with existing infrastructure or remote regions requiring improvised connectivity, the Tactical Voice Gateway Adaptor provides a critical link between military and civilian networks.

Interoperability for Border Security and Federal Agencies

Beyond battlefield applications, next-generation C2 solutions also support interoperability with federal and local agencies, strengthening homeland security and border protection. The system integrates seamlessly with APCO Project 25 (P25), a digital radio technology that enables communication across different agencies and devices.

By supporting P25 trunking, L3Harris solutions allow secure coordination across multiple institutions, ensuring that federal, state, and local authorities can collaborate effectively during joint operations. This interoperability is vital for missions ranging from border security to disaster response, where unified communication is essential for success.

L3Harris Statement on Mission Success and Soldier Safety

Sam Mehta, President of Communication Systems at L3Harris, emphasized the critical importance of combining high throughput with secure networks. According to Mehta, mission success and soldier safety depend on the ability to move data rapidly while protecting devices and networks from adversarial threats.

This dual focus on speed and security reflects the Army’s broader modernization goals. As operations become increasingly data-driven, the ability to safeguard information while ensuring uninterrupted flow is fundamental to achieving mission dominance in contested domains.

Building the Backbone of Next-Generation C2

L3Harris is delivering the backbone of next-generation C2 through a software-based architecture that integrates resilient waveforms, adaptive transport, and high-throughput connectivity. These solutions guarantee operational continuity in contested environments, ensuring that soldiers remain connected, informed, and protected.

By uniting capacity with survivability, the Army’s mission networks are designed to endure the rigors of modern combat. The combination of scalable hardware, advanced encryption, resilient waveforms, and interoperability with civilian agencies positions the U.S. Army to dominate the spectrum and maintain operational superiority.

As adversaries continue to challenge communications and spectrum access, the transformation of C2 architecture represents not only a technological evolution but also a strategic imperative. With L3Harris at the forefront, the Army is building a future-ready network that ensures mission success, protects soldiers, and secures dominance in the battlespace.

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