U.S. Army approves full-rate production contract for PacStar's communications modules
NewsJanuary 18, 2018
PORTLAND, Ore. U.S. Army officials approved the full-rate production of PacStar's 400-Series small form factor (SFF) tactical and deployable communications modules under the Army Transportable Tactical Command Communications (T2C2) program.
PacStar modules – which provide baseband networking for the T2C2 program’s Lite and Heavy systems – satisfactorily completed operational testing with the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson.
PacStar equipment, when paired with T2C2 satellite terminals, will enable early entry forces to access the Army’s tactical communications network. The program will field two variants: a soldier-portable T2C2 Lite for early entry forces and a TC2C Heavy for company-level command post/forward operating base communications.
PacStar’s baseband system consists of routing, switching and servers based on the patented and field-proven PacStar 400-Series solutions, incorporating Cisco networking and switching technologies and Intel advanced processors in rugged, small form factor modules. A patented snap together design allows multiple modules to share power from a common set of rechargeable batteries. All components and modules are fully interchangeable across Lite and Heavy variants. This interchangeability reduces training time, improves logistics, maximizes flexibility and supports ongoing program growth and development while protecting investment.
In 2018 the Army plans to field T2C2 to 15 operational elements including seven brigade combat teams, four division headquarters, one corps headquarters, one military intelligence brigade, and one expeditionary signal battalion. The Army plans to procure T2C2 until early 2025.
