BCT Network
The BCT (Brigade Combat Team) network is a layered system of interconnected computers and software, radios, and sensors within the Brigade Combat Team (BCT) designed to increase survivability and strategy on a battlefield where units can communicate internally instead of through a central command. The BCT Network allows for a more efficient use of communication and a possibility to plug combined-arms warfare into the network for better communication.
01Deployment
The BCT network is essential to enable Unified Battle Command and will be delivered to the Army's Brigade Combat Teams in increasing capability increments. The first increment is currently finishing SDD developmental and operational testing and will be delivered to Infantry Brigade Combat Teams in the form of Network Integration Kits (B-kits) with E-IBCT. The first testing of the BCT network occurred in the Joint Multinational Readiness Center (JMRC), Germany, September 2020.
The soldier at every echelon, from Brigade to Squad, will be connected to the proper sensor data and communication relays to ensure proper battle-space situational awareness.
02The Network Integration Kit
The Network Integration Kit (NIK) is a suite of equipment capable of being installed on many vehicles including HMMWV's and MRAPs. It provides the Network connectivity and battle command software to integrate and fuse sensor data into the common operational picture (COP) displayed on the Force XXI Battle Command Battalion/Brigade and Below (FBCB2). The Network Integration Kit consists of an integrated computer system (ICS) that hosts the Battle Command software and the Systems of Systems Common Operating Environment (SOSCOE) software, along with the JTRS GMR radio to provide the interface to the sensors and unmanned systems, as well as voice and data communications with other vehicles and soldiers. Another benefit of this system allows vehicles with destroyed antennae to communicate through other vehicles' antennae.
Soldiers will be able to communicate with the Battalion Tactical Operation Center (TOC), by sending reports on enemy sighting, activity and location utilizing the NIK via the Network allowing for split-time tactical decisions instead of waiting for one commander to approve or deny decisions.
Sources and credits
This article is adapted from the Wikipedia article “BCT Network”, written by its contributors and licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Fathomly has changed the layout, removed citation markers, navigation and maintenance notices, and adjusted punctuation. This adapted version is shared under the same license. For references, see the original article.
Images, from Wikimedia Commons:
- BCT Network2.jpg by Unknown author, Public domain
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