Space command creates one focal point for networks

  • Published
  • By Capt. Joe Macri
  • Air Force Space Command Public Affairs
PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. (AFPN) --  On June 1, Air Force Space Command stood up a major command coordination center, or MCCC, creating a single focal point for all network systems across the command.

All major commands are required by headquarters Air Force to consolidate their network operations and systems under an MCCC. Air Force Space Command’s MCCC is the first of its kind in the Air Force, and could become a model for other major commands. This effort is a major step in consolidating network operations across the Air Force.

Brig. Gen. Stephen L. Lanning, director of AFSPC's logistics and communication, said it makes sense that the command would lead the way in standing up an MCCC.

“Our lifeblood dependence on communications networks for mission execution and the diversity of our mission networks means our MCCC will likely be (the) largest, most encompassing and flagship MCCC in the Air Force,” General Lanning said.

There are more than 170 networks and systems within the command. Consolidating them will help standardize their operations, and provide “one-stop shopping” for issues affecting the systems and greater oversight of systems across the board.

Network operations traditionally focused on classified and unclassified computer networks; however, AFSPC has several systems that operate autonomously from traditional networks. This can cause problems when users try to track down problems in a particular system. It also means there was no single way of doing business across the various networks and systems.

“Each system has its own points of contact and way of doing business” said Maj. Jeff Devine, chief of network architectures and standards for the command. “If you have a problem with the Global Positioning System network, you have to figure out who runs the GPS network and go to them. If you have a problem with the Air Force Satellite Control Network, that’s another phone call. The MCCC will provide the warfighter a single focal point for all of these networks so users know where to go for help and commanders know what resources they have available at their fingertips.”

Commanders will be able to access an MCCC Web page on the Secret Internet Protocol Network, known as SIPRNET, which shows them the current status of all systems within the command.

The command is spending approximately $750,000 to stand up the MCCC. Most of this funding deploys new network monitoring tools to monitor the more than 170 networks and systems. Staffing for the center is coming from the existing network operations and security center. Although the MCCC will initially consolidate operations only, the eventual goal is to consolidate infrastructure that could result in significant cost savings.

Additionally, the command has been selected to stand up one of two integrated network operation and security centers, known as I-NOSCs, that eventually will become a hub for network operations across the Air Force. The other I-NOSC will be located at Langley Air Force Base, Va.