1-TENM_RFI_Project_descriptions_1Jul2024.pdf

Test Enterprise Network Modernization Program (TENM)

The Test Enterprise Network Modernization (TENM) compasses the ATEC requirements of the following three projects: Test Network Modernization, ATEC Fiber Modernization, and Future Wireless Network. TENM will provide ATEC the critical on-range test network bandwidth to move large volumes of test data for analysis and decision-making via fiber and wireless technologies. The on-range test network is the foundation necessary to meet the interconnectivity and interoperability demands of Multi-Domain Live, Virtual, and Constructive (LVC) distributed testing, and to move data to the cloud environment. Each program within TENM focuses on key requirements of the test network infrastructure modernization. TNM focuses on replacing inadequate and end-of-life (EOL) network hardware, addressing bandwidth limitations, redundancy, and network management. AFM’s objective is the replacement of existing and/or installation of new fiber optic test network infrastructure to meet current and future test data throughput requirements. FWN is the development of a wireless test network solution that complements the AFM project with increased performance/coverage, enhanced interoperability, and lower sustainment costs. The test network, composed of both wired and wireless infrastructure, is a critical component for the real-time processing and viewing of test data. Wireless capability provides test network connectivity when wired infrastructure is unavailable or unsuitable. This wireless test network augments the wired network, providing connectivity where no fiber exists and expanding network coverage across the ranges. FWN aims to provide wireless test network capabilities that offer reliable, high-capacity, and comprehensive coverage with throughput that allows streaming of large test data files for real-time viewing and processing to meet evolving test mission requirements. TENM will provide an innovative and efficient platform capable of supporting ATEC’s current and future mission-critical test network requirements.

TENM has identified shortfalls in the existing network infrastructure that are limiting its ability to meet current and/or future testing requirements. These include, but are not limited to:

Condition of Fiber: Portions of the existing fiber-optic infrastructure is not in serviceable condition or are damaged.

Lack of Fiber: Test areas/locations that are not serviced with fiber-optic infrastructure and/or areas where they don’t meet the minimum fiber strands per building.

Fault Tolerance: No diverse fiber routes to maintain redundant network paths where needed. Redundancy eliminates single points of failure to maintain availability and provide uninterrupted data collection and transmission performance.

Low Available Bandwidth: Current fiber infrastructure does not support required bandwidth of concurrent modern instrumentation.

Maintenance and Testing: No modern equipment necessary to maintain, operate, and repair existing fiber infrastructure, or the ability to validate repairs to the level required for modern instrumentation.

Accessibility: Inability for immediate access to be able to maintain/repair and support range fiber infrastructure.

Fiber Documentation: No access to complete and accurate documentation of existing cable infrastructure, specifically, utility map inclusion of fiber-optic infrastructure.

Wireless: Limited wireless infrastructure (both fixed and transportable) that does not allow ability to increase coverage area and or set up temporary networks with mobile assets.

Expeditionary Network: Ability to configure and transport network capability to support operational testing at remote sites.

Test Network Modernization (TNM) Network Bandwidth Upgrade

The increase in test data requirements using high-definition video streaming, plus large data transport requirements for live and post mission data are driving the need for a high-capacity network. This high-capacity need is being addressed under an incremental modernization plan that replaces End of Life (EOL) equipment with equipment that has increased capabilities and allows for the bandwidth to be optimized for the Army Test and Evaluation Command (ATEC) Subordinate Organizations (ASOs). As the requirement for test data transport rates increases towards the 10 Gigabits per second (Gbps) network to the edge threshold, the network is at risk of failing to meet test requirements due to network traffic congestion, mission schedules, multiple and simultaneous projects, and mission delays in data distribution during pre-mission setup, live-mission, and post-mission. For example, the combination of optics and telemetry in close proximity for mission support when correlated to the physical network topology will push the edge bandwidth past the nominal 1Gbps network limit. The packetized data both in real-time and post-mission for optics and telemetry are increasing because of high-definition video requests and Telemetry-over-IP (TMoIP) requirements for future modernization plans at the ASOs. The ASOs currently support 1Gbps to the network edge utilizing different topologies, equipment, and infrastructures, as shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1. Current 10 Gbps Core to 1 Gbps to the Edge

The network bandwidth, systems of systems, and technologies under development for future Test and Evaluation (T&E) at ASOs will require much higher bandwidth. Streaming of live and post mission high-definition video over IP is already placing a heavy load on the networks. To support the increased network traffic generated by future projects, as well as high-definition video streaming over IP from mission support entities and unmanned vehicle testing, the network is being upgraded to support a minimum of 100 Gigabits per second at the network backbone and 10 Gigabits per second at the access layer (Figure 2). This incremental hardware upgrade is expected to be completed by FY2027.

Figure 2. 10 Gbps to the Edge with 100 Gbps Core

Army Test and Evaluation Command Fiber Modernization (AFM)

As military systems continue to evolve, T&E data complexity and volume is increasing, resulting in the need for improved data collection and transmission performance. Specifically, there is a need to modernize existing fiber optic infrastructure at ASOs to ensure that it is in proper condition to support bandwidth requirements of TNM equipment implemented on the test ranges. ATEC ASOs test networks require fiber optic infrastructure that supports the data transmission rate of 100 Gigabits per second (Gbps) at the core/distribution layer and 10 Gbps to the access layer. Without sufficient fiber optic infrastructure, the test network equipment is at risk of not supporting bandwidth requirements of the TNM program. TNM equipment, along with fiber infrastructure, supports ASO test networks and instrumentation to improve route diversity and increase bandwidth. Increased U.S. Army Futures Command (AFC) Cross Functional Team (CFT) test workload and modernized minor and major test instrumentation investments are driving the need for increased network throughput, real-time data transmission, and data download capability.

Key Performance Parameter (KPP) Requirements.

This section lists the Key Performance Parameters (KPPs) and Key System Attributes (KSAs) that will address several shortfalls identified above of the current fiber infrastructure, along with ensuring an enterprise approach by creating a basic minimum standard across all the ATEC ASOs. The KPPs listed in Table 1 address the shortfalls for AFM.

Table 1 – KPPs

NUMBER KPP Requirement

Threshold (T): All ASO projects that require the use of single mode fiber optic cables shall have the maximum acceptable attenuation calculated according to the equation in Table 2 using values for coefficients included in the baseline condition row using a wavelength of 1310 nanometer (nm).

Fiber-Optic Attenuation

T: All ASO projects that require the use of single mode fiber optic cables in Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) or long-distance applications (>=40 kilometers (km)) shall have the maximum acceptable attenuation calculated according to the equation in Table 2 using values for coefficients included in the baseline condition row using a wavelength of 1550 nm.

T: All ASO projects that require the use of multimode fiber optic cables shall have the maximum acceptable attenuation calculated according to the equation in Table 2 using values for coefficients included in the baseline condition row using a wavelength of 850 nm.

Fiber-Optic Attenuation.

Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (OTDR) or a light source with a power meter will be used to test optical fiber attenuation. The metered testing should not exceed the threshold acceptable attenuation value as calculated using the equation for total acceptable attenuation for single and multi-mode fiber in the following table. This KPP ensures conformity with the values for the attenuation calculation for the American National Standards Institute/Telecommunications Industry Association/Electronic Industries Alliance (ANSI/TIA/EIA)-568 B Section B.3 (pg. 27-28

– Optical Fiber Cables).

Table 2 – Attenuation Equation Calculation

Equation Total Attenuation (TA) = n * C + c * J + L * a + M n=number of connector s

C= attenuatio n for one optical connector (dB)

C= numbe r of splices

J= attenuatio n for one splice (dB)

L= total length of the optica l cable (km) a=attenuatio n for optical cable (dB/km)

M= system margin (typicall y 3dB)

LEGEND:

dB – decibel dB/km – decibels per kilometer nm – nanometers

Key System Attributes.

The KSAs listed in Table 3 address the shortfalls for AFM. Reference is made to the USAISEC Technical Criteria for the Installation of Information Infrastructure Architecture (I3A), February 2010 for fiber considerations in the design.

Table 3 – Key System Attributes

Number KSA Requirement 1 Fiber to Test Areas Threshold (T): All fiber runs to Test Areas shall be a minimum of 12 strand cable in accordance with I3A, section 3.15.4.2, unless specified otherwise in local ASOs policies and procedures in conjunction with their agencies.

2 Backbone Fiber

T: All outside plant backbone fiber runs shall be a minimum of 24 strand single mode cable in accordance with I3A section, 3.15.4.2, unless specified otherwise in local ASOs policies and procedures in conjunction with their agencies.

3 Fiber Splices

T: All outside plant backbone fiber runs shall be fusion spliced to manufactured pigtails in accordance with I3A, section 3.17.3.2.

4 Fiber Specification

T: Installed fiber-optic cable shall conform to the specifications outlined in section 3.15 of the I3A.

5 Testing of Fiber

T: All fiber runs shall be tested before and after installation using the OTDR method as defined in I3A, section 3.19.2.

6 Range Fiber Installation

T: Fiber installed outside the main cantonment area or designated as “range-controlled fiber” shall be installed in accordance with section

3.12 of the I3A.

8 Diversity T: Communication between Core and Distribution Nodes requires multiple fiber-optic lines to create redundant communication paths to provide fault tolerance and communication availability to support all current and future data bandwidth requirements, as defined in I3A section 3.15.4.5.

9 Dark Fiber T: All multi-destination cables shall be sized with minimum 50 percent spare, unused strands as defined in I3A, section 3.15.4.4.

11 Bandwidth T: All backbone fiber between network cores and distribution nodes shall support a minimum of 100Gb/s bandwidth.

12 Fiber Connector Quality

T: All new fiber-optic terminations shall use an ultra-physical contact spliced-on pigtail connector as defined in I3A, section 3.17.3.2, unless specified otherwise in local policies and procedures in conjunction with their agencies.

Design Constraints

T: All fiber-optic designs shall not include aerial implementations as the primary or preferred solution in accordance with I3A, section 3.6.4. In addition to the stated requirements above, any additional design guidance decisions shall be based on I3A, unless specified otherwise in local policies and procedures in conjunction with their agencies.

16 Operational Availability T: ASO fiber optic infrastructure operational availability, as a system, shall also be 95%.

Future Wireless Network (FWN)

The ASOs require wireless network capabilities for transporting test data in austere environments. These capabilities describe wireless network characteristics in the form of Point-to-Point, Point-to-Multi-Point (PTmP), and mobility scenarios of Line of Sight (LOS) and Non- Line of Sight (NLOS) activities that support T&E across ATEC SOs.

Test capabilities are divided into the following functional areas:

(1) Wireless network to enable instrumentation monitoring and control.

(2) Wireless data transport (i.e., health and test status, real time data collection).

(3) Wireless backhaul to support long-range and high-bandwidth connectivity for field communications.

(4) Wireless data collection from mobile platforms to include dismounted soldiers, vehicles, and Tier 1 Aviation (e.g., helicopters and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles).

(5) Portable wireless infrastructure to enable ad hoc connectivity at remote locations.

(6) Wireless scalability to provide extended and reliable coverage.

(7) Automated reporting tool to support wireless management of the network.

(8) Situational awareness for wireless devices.

(9) Propagation and planning tools to provide quick and accurate prediction of network performance.

The test network, composed of both wired and wireless infrastructure, is a critical component for the real-time processing and viewing of test data. Wireless capability provides test network connectivity when wired infrastructure is unavailable or unsuitable. This wireless test network augments the wired network, providing connectivity where no fiber exists and expanding network coverage across the range. As military systems evolve, T&E data complexity and transport requirements also increase which drive the need for increased performance in FWN. FWN aims to provide wireless test network capabilities that offer reliable and comprehensive coverage with throughput that allows streaming of large test data files for real-time viewing and processing. In maintaining a forward perspective, FWN will provide a wireless test network capability that is high capacity to meet evolving test mission requirements.

The desired approach will maximize the use of wireless capabilities (both fixed and transportable) across the respective test centers to allow flexibility in configuring the desired network that still meets the requirements.

The below use cases/locations are a subset of the overall networking requirements for each ASO.

Additional use cases/locations may be included in any future RFI release based on the responses received to these initial RFIs.

U.S. Army Operational Test Command (USAOTC)

The Test Enterprise Network Modernization (TENM) is comprised of Test Network Modernization (TNM), Army Test and Evaluation Command (ATEC) Fiber Modernization (AFM), and Future Wireless Network (FWN), with the overall objective of modernizing U.S. Army Enterprise Test Network capabilities. Program requirements include fielding test network hardware capable of meeting end-of-life requirements, addressing bandwidth limitations, redundancy, and network management. Other aspects addressed within the programs include installation and replacement of existing fiber infrastructures necessary to meet current and future data throughput requirements. Development and installation of a modern enterprise wireless network solution that combines increased performance, enhanced interoperability, and lower sustainment costs, will also be addressed under TENM.

Each program within TENM focuses on key requirements of the test network effort. TNM focuses on replacing inadequate and end-of-life (EOL) network hardware. AFM’s objective is the installation and replacement of existing fiber optic test network infrastructure. FWN is the development of a wireless test network solution that seamlessly leverages advancements in TNM and AFM technologies within each respective program. The test network, composed of both wired and wireless infrastructure, is a critical component for the real-time processing and viewing of test data. Wireless capability provides test network connectivity when wired infrastructure is unavailable or unsuitable. This wireless test network augments the wired network, providing connectivity where no fiber exists and expanding network coverage across the ranges. FWN aims to provide wireless test network capabilities that offer reliable, scalable, and comprehensive coverage with throughput that allows streaming of large test data files for real-time viewing and processing to meet evolving test mission requirements. The combined strategic areas of network architecture under TNM, AFM, and FWN will provide an innovative and efficient platform capable of supporting ATEC’s current and future mission-critical test requirements.

TENM has identified shortfalls in the network infrastructure that are limiting its ability to meet current and/or future testing requirements. These include, but are not limited to:

• Condition of Fiber

• Lack of Fiber

• Fault Tolerance

• Low Available Bandwidth

• Maintenance and Testing

• Accessibility

• Fiber Documentation

Test Network Modernization:

The increase in test data requirements using high-definition video streaming, plus large data transport requirements for live and post-mission data, are driving the need for a scalable network. This scalable need is being addressed under an incremental modernization plan that replaces EOL equipment with equipment that has increased capabilities and allows for the bandwidth to be optimized for the ATEC’s Subordinate Organizations (ASOs). As the requirement for test data transport rates increases beyond the 10 Gigabits per second (Gbps) network to the edge threshold, the network is at risk of failing to meet test requirements due to network traffic congestion, mission schedules, multiple and simultaneous projects, and mission delays in data distribution during pre-mission setup, live-mission, and post-mission.

For example, the combination of optics and telemetry in proximity for mission support, when correlated to the physical network topology, will push the edge bandwidth past the nominal 1 Gbps network limit.

The packetized data, both in real-time and post-mission, for optics and telemetry are increasing because of high-definition video requests and Telemetry-over-IP (TMoIP) requirements for future modernization plans at the test centers.

The USAOTC core network currently supports 1 Gbps to 10 Gbps from the access layer to the edge and core infrastructures, which is currently not sufficient to meet the requirements deployed in the TNM Test Capabilities Requirements Document (TCRD) as shown in Figure 1.

The typical network devices consist of:

• Core Network: Main network layer or backbone that has the bandwidth capacity to support the aggregate bandwidth of the distribution layers connected to it. It provides high end switching via high-speed fiber optic.

FIGURE 1: Current 100G Backbone Core to 10G to Major Distribution nodes with 1Gbps or 10Gbps to the access layer/edge.

• Major Distribution: It is the communication layer that receives traffic/data from the access layer (edge) and routes it to the core network for transport.

• Edge: Customer’s traffic or service requests originate from this layer of communication, and they are sent to the distribution layer for routing.

• Routers: A network device that determines the best way to forward and receive traffic/data packets to a destination using IP addresses via a routing table.

• Switches: A device that provides interconnection of two and more network devices.

• Firewalls: A network device that blocks unauthorized traffic while allowing outward/inward communication.

United States Army Operational Test Command – TNM Use Case The USAOTC’s network bandwidth, systems of systems, and technologies under development for future Test and Evaluation (T&E) will require much higher bandwidth. Streaming live and post-mission data in high-definition video over IP already places a heavy load on the network. To support the increased network traffic generated by future projects, as well as high-definition video streaming over IP from mission support entities and unmanned vehicle testing, the network backbone needs to be upgraded to support a minimum of 100 Gigabits per second at the network backbone and 10 Gigabits per second at the major distribution layer.

USAOTC is a tenant organization within Fort Cavazos near Killeen, Texas. Most of USAOTC resides on the western side of Fort Cavazos, near Killeen-Fort Hood Regional Airport. The mission of USAOTC, in collaboration with test and evaluation partners, is to “conduct independent operational testing to inform acquisition and fielding decisions for Army and select multi-service warfighting systems.”

Local Test Directorates Local Test Directorates, organizations within Fort Cavazos that are subordinate to USAOTC, include Aviation Test Directorate (AVTD), Maneuver Test Directorate (MTD), Mission Command Test Directorate (MCTD), Maneuver Support and Sustainment Test Directorate (MS2TD), and Test Technology Directorate (TTD).

Forward Test Directorates Forward Test Directorates, also subordinate to USAOTC but established outside of Fort Cavazos, include Air and Missile Defense Test Directorate (AMDTD, Fort Bliss), Airborne and Special Operations Test Directorate (ABNSOTD, Fort Liberty), Intelligence Electronic Warfare Test Directorate (IEWTD, Fort Huachuca), and Fire Support Test Directorate (FSTD, Fort Sill).

Current Situation and Testing Requirements USAOTC faces unique challenges in maintaining and operating test networks. The nature of our testing is highly dynamic and requires a deployable and re-configurable network infrastructure at the edge. The "edge" in our context refers to the specific points where test teams conduct their operations, which are often in varying locations and buildings depending on the test requirements.

Characteristics of USAOTC’s Testing Environment:

• Ad Hoc and Non-Persistent: Our tests are not static; they vary in location and often require rapid deployment and re-configuration of network infrastructure.

• Minimal Existing Infrastructure: Typically, there is little to no existing infrastructure at our test sites.

Therefore, we must bring all necessary equipment, including routers, switches, fiber, CAT 6 cables, and other essential networking components.

• Edge Node Mobility: The edge nodes, where testing occurs, need to be highly mobile and adaptable to support diverse and changing test environments.

Local Directorates Testing Environment:

Our local directorates, which include the Aviation Test Directorate (AVTD), Maneuver Test Directorate (MTD), Maneuver Support and Sustainment Test Directorate (MS2TD), and Mission Command Test Directorate (MCTD), operate under these conditions. They conduct their tests in varying locations with the following requirements:

• Deployable Network Solutions: The ability to set up and tear down network configurations quickly.

• Scalable Bandwidth: Sufficient bandwidth to handle high-definition video streaming, telemetry, and other data-intensive operations.

• Redundancy and Reliability: Ensuring network reliability and minimizing single points of failure during tests.

Forward Test Directorates Testing Environment:

Our forward directorates, which include the Fire Support Test Directorate (FSTD) at Fort Sill, Air and Missile Defense Test Directorate (AMDTD) at Fort Bliss, Intelligence Electronic Warfare Test Directorate (IEWTD) at Fort Huachuca, and Airborne and Special Operations Test Directorate (ABNSOTD) at Fort Liberty, also maintain their own test networks under similar conditions. Notably, the ABNSOTD has a more persistent test network, but it is contained and does not traverse like the other networks. All forward test directorates, however, are inadequate for the expanding testing needs.

Specific Needs for Forward Directorates:

• Enhanced Network Equipment: Upgrading to more robust and scalable network equipment to support diverse testing scenarios.

• Mobility and Flexibility: Ensuring network solutions can be quickly deployed and re-configured in new locations as needed.

• Persistent and Ad Hoc Capabilities: Balancing between persistent network setups for frequent testing areas and ad hoc deployments for less frequent or more variable locations.

Proposed Network Design To address these challenges and align with the specifications within the Test Capabilities Requirements Document (TCRD), we propose a study to develop a comprehensive network design that includes:

• Deployable Network Equipment: Pre-configured (or highly configurable) equipment that can be quickly deployed at test sites, including high-capacity routers, switches, and necessary cabling.

• Re-configurable Edge Nodes: Flexible network nodes that can be adjusted to meet the specific requirements of each test location.

• Scalable Infrastructure: Ensuring that both wired and wireless components can handle increased data transport needs and support high-definition video and telemetry over IP.

• Redundant Paths and Fault Tolerance: Implementing redundancy to eliminate single points of failure and ensure continuous operation during tests.

ATEC Fiber Modernization:

The scope of the AFM project includes addressing fiber connectivity to support testing activities. This includes providing pathways for point-to-point data collection, commercial service circuits, telephone services, alarm circuits (e.g., ICIDS - Integrated Commercial Intrusion Detection System), and other specific test needs. Some of these services may be separately accredited and managed by others (e.g., garrison agencies). Most ASOs are tenants aboard a larger installation; as such, the fiber infrastructure may support more than just the testing activities. The AFM effort will primarily focus on fiber infrastructure supporting testing activities.

To support the increased network traffic generated by future projects (commonly Army Futures Command Cross Functional Teams – CFT), as well as high-definition video streaming over internet protocol (IP) from mission support entities, the network backbone of the test centers must provide a minimum of 100 Gigabits per second (Gbps) at the core/distribution layers and 10 Gbps at the edge/access layer. The fiber infrastructure supplies the means of transport for establishing those connection data rates, therefore fiber quality must meet specific criteria.

AFM fiber optic capabilities shall minimally meet United States Army Information Systems Engineering Command (USAISEC) Installation of Information Infrastructure Architecture (I3A, Reference A) technical criteria along with ASOs' local policies and procedures in conjunction with local agencies. The I3A identifies proven infrastructure installation techniques, defines best/common practices, and serves as an authoritative implementation guide. Per the I3A, International Telecommunication Union - Telecommunication Standardization Sector (ITU-T) G.652 (Reference B) fiber, also known as standard single mode fiber (SMF), is the most deployed fiber. It is the preferred standard for most of the cable to be installed under I3A for AFM.

The AFM TCRD, Reference C, defines the Key Performance Parameter (KPP) that will help identify several shortfalls of the current fiber infrastructure, along with ensuring an enterprise approach by creating a basic minimum standard across ASOs: i.e., fiber optic attenuation. Fiber optic attenuation is the reduction in power of the light signal as it is transmitted. Attenuation levels higher than recommended values will not support test network bandwidth requirements. Meeting threshold fiber optic attenuation values will posture ATEC to meet the threshold bandwidth requirements defined within the TCRD.

Additionally, as technology advances, meeting the KPP attenuation threshold parameters will also allow ATEC to adopt technologies that can achieve greater bandwidths. An Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (OTDR) will be used to test attenuation. The metered testing should not exceed the threshold acceptable attenuation value as calculated for SMF and multimode fiber (MMF).

United States Army Operational Test Command – AFM:

Network Configuration There are four networks supporting USAOTC located at Fort Cavazos that are used to support the USAOTC’s test directorates' mission. Each of the Forward Test Directorates' administrative networks connects back to USAOTC. The USAOTC geographic distances are shown in Figure 2.

Figure 2 – USAOTC, Fort Cavazos, TX Buildings

Fiber Infrastructure The Fort Cavazos Network Enterprise Command (NEC), manned by the 106th Signal Brigade, maintains ownership of all outside fiber plant infrastructure. The NEC owns and maintains Fort Cavazos’s fiber infrastructure, where the installation’s fiber infrastructure is shared among the installation tenants so availability can be limited. USAOTC only owns fiber infrastructure supporting the USAOTC HQ area.

Currently, the main link between the service delivery point (SDP) and the USAOTC is degraded, and there is no redundancy between the USAOTC area and the SDP. The USAOTC would benefit greatly from a redundant path for future improvements due to outages that have occurred on the main post that have resulted in significant downtime for USAOTC. ATEC approved the USAOTC headquarters and Forward Test Center area AFM projects in FY22. The remaining projects for USAOTC at Fort Cavazos are the following:

Service Delivery Point – USAOTC -> Degraded path Service Delivery Point – FTC -> Redundant route

Airborne and Special Operations Test Directorate – AFM

The Airborne and Special Operations Test Directorate (ABNSOTD) is located on Fort Liberty U.S. Army installation in Fayetteville, North Carolina. ABNSOTD is the Army’s independent operational testers for airborne, airdrop, and Joint Special Operations Forces. They are a forward-looking and respected operational test directorate that focuses on current and future war-fighting requirements through the conduct of thorough, rigorous, realistic, honest, service unique, and joint testing. ABNSOTD ensures "Truth in Testing" while never compromising safety or performance.

Network Configuration There are two main networks used at ABNSOTD. The first one acts as a standalone network used for testing purposes, and the remaining one is used for general administrative purposes as well as test planning and coordination. ABNSOTD and other visiting USAOTC units primarily prefer to conduct testing at Sicily and Normandy Drop Zones (DZ) because the large geographic size better facilitates aerial delivery and parachute testing than other drop zones aboard Fort Liberty. There is no network connectivity available at either of these drop zones, so test data is collected locally at the drop zones.

A test normally consists of multiple all-day events where video, photo imagery, global positioning system, and impact data are collected. All data is downloaded at the end of each day and stored on the ABNOSTD standalone network, which is several miles away at the Yellow Ramp area (see figure 3). ABNSOTD currently collects between three to five Terabytes (TB) of data for each day of testing for post-processing.

The majority of the data is 4K video and photos. ABNSOTD currently conducts an average of 15 tests a year. ABNSOTD will eventually be expected to broadcast real-time 4K video and data from the drop zones and aircraft for viewing and archiving at OTC.

Figure 3 - Satellite Image of Significant ABNSOTD Locations Aboard Fort Liberty

Fiber Infrastructure The fiber infrastructure supporting Fort Liberty is managed by the NEC 93rd Signal Brigade. The Fort Liberty NEC possesses most of the equipment and qualified personnel to install, maintain, and repair fiber cables/connections. In contrast, ABNSOTD’s personnel do not have the ability to test or repair fiber, only to install or replace fiber patch cables. Any fiber issues must be submitted to Fort Liberty NEC.

A representation of ABNSOTD geographic distances are shown in figure 4. The locations marked in green do not currently have fiber connections.

Figure 4 – ABNSOTD Fort Liberty, NC Buildings

As mentioned above, ABNSOTD primarily uses Sicily and Normandy drop zones because they are large enough to adequately support air delivery and air drop testing. Since there is no fiber infrastructure at these locations, all test data is stored locally and harvested post-test at TTB building R-2763. Vans, trucks, and trailers have been employed to help collect, reduce, and harvest data at the testing site.

Intelligence and Electronic Warfare Test Directorate – AFM:

The mission of the Intelligence Electronic Warfare Test Directorate (IEWTD) is to plan, conduct, and report on assigned mission-based operational tests, assessments, and experiments of intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), electronic warfare (EW), counter improvised explosive device (CIED), and biometric systems to provide essential information for the acquisition and fielding of systems in support of the U.S. Army, Joint Service, and National Agency customers. IEWTD also provides threat and ISR modeling, simulation, and instrumentation (MS&I) support for internal and external test events.

Network Configuration There are three main networks used at IEWTD. The first two are standalone networks used for testing purposes, and the remaining network is used for general administrative purposes as well as test planning and coordination.

Fiber Infrastructure The Fort Huachuca NEC owns and maintains all the fiber infrastructure on base, and this includes the fiber that supports IEWTD. Like other USAOTC installations, the outside plant fiber is allocated by the

NEC, which can create instances of limited availability. IEWTD is responsible for maintaining and upgrading all the fiber within its compound, both inside and outside plant fiber of IEWTD is severely degraded. A representation of IEWTD geographic distance are shown in figure 5.

Figure 5 – IEWTD, Fort Huachuca, AZ Buildings

IEWTD has very little fiber optic troubleshooting experience and very minimal equipment consisting of only a fiber optic light source. They rely heavily on the local NEC to provide expertise in all matters pertaining to troubleshooting, installation, and repair of outside plant fiber optic cable beyond the compound fence and civilian contractors for outside plant fiber optic cable repairs within the compound.

Existing fiber is old and deteriorating and becoming more brittle as time passes. Lastly, the fiber within the compound is mostly multimode fiber, and by TCRD standards, it needs to be replaced.

Fires Support Test Directorate – AFM:

The Fire Support Test Directorate (FSTD) is located within Fort Sill U.S. Army installation north of Lawton, Oklahoma. The Fire Support Test Directorate has the mission of planning, conducting, and reporting on independent operational tests, assessments, and experiments to provide essential information for the decision-making process for the acquisition and fielding of fire support, field artillery, and air defense artillery systems.

Network Configuration Within FSTD Headquarters building 1655, two different networks are present: a standalone network and a network used for general administrative purposes as well as test planning and coordination. The standalone test network is managed by FSTD and restricted to this location and is used to aggregate collected test data and further analyze it following a test event. The dashed line in the diagram only represents a logical connection as shown in Figure 6. There are no other FSTD buildings or testing sites within Fort Sill that have network connectivity.

Figure 6 – FSTD, Fort Sill, OK Buildings

The amount of data collected in 24 hours during a large test is currently one terabyte (TB). A large test may include 15–20 days of data collection. FSTD plans for one large test and four smaller tests each year. However, test data is usually hand-carried (not transported via network) back to building 1655 for data reduction and storage. During tests, data is brought to building 1655 daily, often multiple times per day. FSTD has mobile vans (Figure 7) that support testing by collecting data via radio transmissions.

Someone will then travel to the site being supported by the mobile van to collect data stored within the mobile van to bring it back to building 1655.

Figure 7- FSTD Mobile Vans

Fiber Infrastructure Fort Sill NEC duties are performed by the 106th Signal Brigade. The Fort Sill NEC owns and maintains all the fiber infrastructure on base, and this includes the fiber that supports FSTD. Like other USAOTC installations, the outside plant fiber is allocated by the NEC, which can create instances of limited availability. FSTD is responsible for maintaining and upgrading all the cabling inside FSTD buildings.

Air and Missile Defense Test Directorate – AFM:

AMDTD is located within Fort Bliss U.S. Army installation in El Paso, Texas. The testing areas cover El Paso County in Texas and nearly five counties in southern New Mexico. AMDTD is a Forward Test Directorate of U.S. Army Operational Test Command (USAOTC) which provides the Army with operational testing and assessment of joint and multi-service war-fighting systems. AMDTD provides USAOTC with empirical data on experimental, operational, and network-centric environments and systems.

Network Configuration Fort Bliss and nearby White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) both serve as ideal testing locations for AMDTD and other OTC directorates. Network connectivity is extended from USAOTC to AMDTD, whether testing is conducted on Fort Bliss or WSMR. There are three primary networks operated at AMDTD for conducting tests in the area. The primary administrative network directly supports AMDTD and is managed by USAOTC personnel, and the remaining two networks are maintained by AMDTD.

Figures 8 and 9 illustrate the breadth and depth of AMDTD's reach across both Fort Bliss and WSMR.

Figure 8 – Primary Nodes Within Fort Bliss

Figure 9 - Frequent USAOTC Testing Sites Within WSMR

Fiber Infrastructure AMDTD only maintains inside plant infrastructure within the AMDTD compound. Any equipment needed for testing or repair of the MMF inside plant infrastructure must be borrowed from USAOTC. The outside plant infrastructure feeds the AMDTD for the local Fort Bliss NEC. They own the outside plant and backbone fiber beyond the AMDTD compound, including fiber out to the remote nodes, i.e., Donna Anna, McGregor, Baby Elephant, and Tobin Wells. The installation’s fiber infrastructure is shared among the installation tenants (allocation managed by NEC) so availability can be limited. If any fiber infrastructure work needs to be conducted outside of the AMDTD compound, the tenant unit must coordinate with the local NEC. Figure 10 highlights the buildings and distances AMDTD must traverse to conduct its mission.

Figure 10 – AMDTD, Fort Bliss, TX Buildings

Future Wireless Network:

The Army Test and Evaluation Command Subordinate Organizations (ASOs) require wireless network capabilities for transporting test data. These capabilities describe wireless network characteristics in the form of Point-to-Point, Point-to-Multi-Point (PTmP), and mobility scenarios of Line of Sight (LOS) and Non-Line of Sight (NLOS) activities that support Test & Evaluation (T&E) across ATEC test centers.

Test capabilities are divided into the following functional areas:

(1) Wireless network to enable instrumentation monitoring and control.

(2) Wireless data transport (i.e., health and test status, real time data collection).

(3) Wireless backhauls to support long-range and high-bandwidth connectivity for field communications.

(4) Wireless data collection from mobile platforms to include dismounted soldiers, vehicles, and Tier

1 Aviation (e.g., helicopters and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles).

(5) Portable wireless infrastructure to enable ad hoc connectivity at remote locations.

(6) Wireless scalability to provide extended and reliable coverage.

(7) Automated reporting tool to support wireless management of the network.

(8) Situational awareness for wireless devices.

(9) Propagation and planning tools to provide quick and accurate prediction of network performance.

The test network is composed of both wired and wireless infrastructure, which is critical for enabling the real-time processing and viewing of test data. Wireless capability provides test network connectivity when wired infrastructure is unavailable or unsuitable. This wireless test network will augment the wired network, providing connectivity where no fiber exists and expanding network coverage across the range or training site. As military systems evolve, the complexity of T&E data and transport requirements also increase, driving the need for enhanced performance.

Operational Requirement USAOTC requires a deployable wireless test network (WTN) capability to provide network connectivity for data collection activities within a range or training area. USAOTC operates across Continental United States (CONUS) and Outside the Continental United States (OCONUS) locations, necessitating a lightweight, portable, high throughput, and low latency wireless capability critical for its mission. The requirements listed below apply to all use cases unless explicitly stated otherwise.

Current Wireless Network Infrastructure:

o 25 deployable Silvus radios and supporting antennas and masts.

Data Requirements:

o Provide 99.99% coverage o Minimal loss roaming/instantaneous hand-off o Fully integrated into the test network o 100 Mega bits per second (Mbps) – 300 Mbps Upload speeds for real-time data o 300 Mbps – 1 Gbps speed for raw data uploads/downloads o Latency requirements for edge devices ranges: 30ms – 120ms o 10 mi – 40 mi point to point coverage o 2 miles LOS at 50 Mbps upload speed per client (3 clients to 1 Access Points

(APs))

Operational/Safety Requirements:

o All equipment shall conform to Department of Defense (DoD) and Cybersecurity standards to be compliant with publish Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs) and System Requirements Guides (SRGs).

o Any structure or vehicle mounted capability should be deployable with no more than 2 personnel.

o Any tower or antenna structure constructed in the expeditionary environment must have the capability to be firmly anchored to reasonably prevent loss of equipment during adverse weather. The structure would have the capability to be brought down and redeployed with minimal effort outside standard deployment and reconstitution.

Future Plans:

Portable WTN Towers or masts expected to support upcoming programs with mobility scenarios.

• WTN expect to support higher bandwidth demands during peak operations @ 200 - 400 Mbps.

• WTN towers expect to support video streaming: 105 – 210 Mbps @ 1080p.

o Surveillance Cameras: @ 15 Mbps single video.

• WTN can support various programs and instrumentation enclaves as soon as tower network access becomes operational for test monitoring and control.

• WTN expect to support high-capacity edge processing programs.

o Greater than 1 Gbps speed for speed for raw data uploads/downloads o Real-time streaming – 122 Mbps o Post mission quick look – 120 Mbps o Post mission upload uncompressed – 26927 Mbps o File size (uncompressed) – 1010 GB o Post mission upload compresses (10:1) 2693 Mbps o File size (compressed) – 101 GB

• RF/IP – TBD – Maximize spectrum availability

• 12 downlinks (20 Mbps per channel): One node – 240 Mbps

• 12 downlinks (20 Mbps per channel) x 7 systems = 1.680 Gbps aggregate.

• GPS

Use Case: Location #1: Fort Cavazos, TX

Description: The range area and towers at Fort Cavazos, TX, depicted in Figure 11, are managed by the Installation Management Command (IMCOM). There is potential to utilize existing tower infrastructure for future wireless equipment deployment. Long-haul fiber connectivity is available at some fixed sites but at degraded serviceability and reliability. Fiber infrastructure is managed by the Fort Cavazos, NEC. The purple poles depicted in Figure 11 can be used for a wireless solution.

Figure 11 – Fort Cavazos, TX Range

Scenario: Vehicles and soldiers are instrumented during a test event where data is collected to run the scenario in a Live, Virtual, and Constructive (LVC) simulation. The data is collected manually from varying field locations, resulting in significant time investment, often taking hours to complete. The duration of data collection varies depending on the distance between the test operations cell and the collection points. The time required for data reduction and analysis is extended due to the manual harvesting process, delaying the availability of data for analysis.

The manual data harvesting process introduces artificiality and distractions to tactical operations, necessitating pauses in the exercise tempo. The test operations at Fort Cavazos are conducted from the Forward Test Center, which is located near the range. The number of tests conducted at Fort Cavazos varies each year, typically ranging from 1 to 2. Test teams participating in these operations consist of varying sizes, ranging from 3 to 30+ individuals.

Use Case: Location #2: Deployable Location

Deployable Site: Joint Base Lewis–McChord (JBLM) training site at Yakima, WA

Description: Typical USAOTC test environment encompasses test operations occurring in field environments with no network infrastructure.

Current Network Infrastructure:

Test units are deployed at three different locations in the field. No network infrastructure exists as these locations. The distance from the test data management center and each field site is about a 45-mile drive in one direction, see Figure 12 and 13.

Scenario: To address the lack of network infrastructure, USAOTC requires a deployable wireless network solution to extend communication and network connectivity for backhaul out in the range. This wireless network will support the transmission of test data from remote field locations back to the data management center, reducing the need for manual data collection and transport.

Figure 12 – Yakima, WA Range

Figure 13 – Yakima, WA, Test Sites

Use Case: Location #3: Forward Test Directorates Ranges

Locations: Fort Liberty, Fort Sill, Fort Bliss/WSMR, and Fort Huachuca:

Description: The range areas and towers at these locations, are managed by external agencies similar to Fort Cavazos’s Range. Highlighting similarities potentials for utilizing existing infrastructure for future wireless equipment deployment where available. Long-haul fiber connectivity is available at some fixed sites but often at degraded serviceability and reliability.

Fiber infrastructure at these locations is managed by the installation NEC.

Scenario: Like the operations at Fort Cavazos, the Forward Test Directorates conduct their specialized test operations within their respective local ranges. They do not own any infrastructure in the range areas and must coordinate with local installation support elements like IMCOM or Range Control. All necessary network equipment, including wireless access points, antennas, and other infrastructure, must be carried in and packed out for each test.

Vehicles and soldiers are instrumented during test events, where data is collected to run scenarios in a Live, Virtual, and Constructive (LVC) simulation. Data collection is typically a manual process from varying field locations, resulting in significant time investment, often taking hours to complete. The duration of data collection varies depending on the distance between the test operations cell and the collection points. The time required for data reduction and analysis is extended due to the manual harvesting process, delaying the availability of data for analysis. The manual data harvesting process introduces artificiality and distractions to tactical operations, necessitating pauses in the exercise tempo.

Each directorate conducts a varying number of tests each year, typically ranging from 1 to 2 or more, with test teams consisting of 3 to 30+ individuals. For example, Figure 14 shows the range layout at Fort Liberty, NC, where such operations are conducted. The test and terrain can vary from location to location. For instance, see the infrastructure at Fort Huachuca, AZ (Figure 15), and WSMR, NM (Figure 16) highlights the extensive range areas that benefit from this network deployment. Similarly, Figure 17 illustrates the layout at Fort Sill, OK, emphasizing the need for coordinated wireless network solutions across all Forward Test Directorate ranges.

Figure 14 – Fort Liberty, NC Range

Figure 15 – Fort Huachuca, AZ Range

Figure 16 – WSMR, NM Range

Figure 17 – Fort Sill, OK Range

Use Case: Location #4: Data Collection with Wireless Hotspots

Scenarios: The U.S. Army Operational Test Command (USAOTC), Maneuver Support and Sustainment Test Directorate (MS2TD) executing the Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV) at various locations, see Figure 18. Data will be collected on the FMTV variants during each mission using Dell tablets and transmitted to the data management cell via wireless hotspot devices. Wireless hotspots facilitate access to online data collection/management applications and support real-time data transfer. Data Collectors (DCs) will collect Performance, Reliability, Availability, and Maintainability (RAM) and Human Systems Integration (HSI) data via Observer Data Input Nexus (ODIN) and the Enterprise Web Survey Suite (EWSS). Instrumented data will be collected leveraging Advanced Distributed Modular Acquisition System (ADMAS) by Aberdeen Test Center (ATC) personnel. ADMAS collects FMTV vehicle video and audio data.