46th Test Wing expands mission in network testing

  • Published
  • By Minty Knighton
  • Team Eglin Public Affairs
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  The 46th Test Wing is known for armament and aircraft testing, but few know it is also in the business of computer software and network testing.

For years, the 46th Test Squadron has been excelling in network testing. Recently, a new position headed by Col. Steve Hardy, called the Command and Control, Computers, and Communications, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR), will help grow capability and catapult the 46th TW into a new era of communication testing.

C4ISR was developed to identify network capabilities of organizations and facilities within Air Force Material Command. Once identified, each organization and facility capability is tested for optimum performance. In addition to testing, the network capabilities are being developed into something greater, something the 46th TW hopes will grow an enterprise.

One such capability is the Expeditionary Software Support System. According to Colonel Hardy, ECSS is key in the integration of networks AFMC-wide.

"ECSS is an enterprise-wide solution for an integrated data environment," said Colonel Hardy. "It provides universal access to consistent, real-time information, allowing for pro-active planning and scheduling, enhanced and standardized reporting, and total asset visibility."

C4ISR and the 46th TS make sure software programs like ECSS are tested thoroughly.

"We test the application software to ensure it meets the requirement of the systems, we monitor the transfer rates to make network applications more efficient and we secure an operationally effective system for the Air Force," said the colonel.

These thoroughly tested networks exist throughout the Air Force's areas of responsibility and are crucial to air operations. Ensuring these networks communicate accurate data through multiple data systems and links is imperative to the success of not only 46th test missions, but other AFMC missions.

"People don't realize that securing information and transmitting it is as crucial as the bombs and bullets we utilize," said Colonel Hardy.

Security and transmitting data is not the only top priority for the 46th TS. Expanding the mission is another.

In order to expand the efficiency of data transmission for air operations and other similar missions, 46th TS, along with Maxwell Gunter AFB, Ala.,  are working to integrate multiple networks.

"The 46th TS tests integration of air operation center systems and its data feeds to make sure the software used to run the data is providing accurate and timely information to senior leader decision makers," said Colonel Hardy.

Colonel Hardy said that with advancements of weapon systems and more and more constraints on range testing, the reliance on cyber operations and dependence on software and networks is imminent. And although the 46th has taken a lead, Eglin as a whole is supportive in this endeavor.

"This is an important field where I believe Team Eglin can have an impact on how to make the Air Force more effective for the future," he said.