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AWS and Lockheed Martin demonstrate next-generation command and control capabilities at Project Convergence Capstone 5

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Today’s military forces face unprecedented challenges in managing battlefield information. A new solution—developed through a collaboration between Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Lockheed Martin—demonstrates how cloud technology can revolutionize military communications. At Project Convergence Capstone 5 (PCC5), this innovative approach showed how operators can effectively manage complex networks while maintaining operational tempo.

The challenge

Modern military operations demand seamless data flow across diverse environments and security domains. Operators currently manage multiple devices and network connections, which can create disruptions in critical information flow. When disruptions occur, moving data across security domains becomes time-consuming, potentially delaying crucial decision-making. These challenges significantly impact tactical-edge operations—where reliable, secure communication is vital for mission success.

The solution

The PCC5 field exercise demonstrated the capabilities of AWS Cloud Edge Global Access (CEGA) in modernizing military communications. This deployment showed how CEGA addresses tactical-edge connectivity challenges while providing a roadmap for future secure, flexible military networks.

CEGA’s primary strength lies in its ability to provide network access across various security domains. During PCC5, the platform successfully connected communications between different classification levels, supporting fluid information flow across the battlespace. Multiple layers of encryption and secure tunneling protected data throughout its journey, from tactical edge nodes to cloud-based processing centers. This security architecture includes dynamic Internet Protocol (IP) allocation and ephemeral networking, reducing observable network signatures in contested environments.

Technical implementation

The CEGA deployment at PCC5 demonstrated these capabilities through Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) track data processing. The solution established low-latency connections that supported real-time transmission of UAV telemetry and sensor data from field operations to cloud-based analysis systems, improving processing speed and situational awareness for command elements.

A key achievement was the implementation of cross-domain data flow conforming to Impact Level 5 (IL5) and Impact Level 6 (IL6) environment requirements. This capability addresses a persistent challenge in military communications, where information must move securely between different classification levels.

Architecture overview

Figure 1. Architecture diagram showing how AWS Cloud Edge Global Access (CEGA) enables secure cross-domain data flow for military operations.

The solution includes:

  • Edge locations with UAV/drone systems generating data through MANET radios
  • CEGA components providing secure network access at the tactical edge
  • AWS Local Zones and AWS GovCloud integration for mission processing
  • Security controls including VPN connections and ACL implementations
  • Mission systems integration through VPN gateways

The solution follows this data flow:

  1. Unmanned systems (UAV/UxV) and ATAK users generate data at the edge.
  2. CEGA provides network access to cloud and peer edge locations via commercial networks.
  3. Data flows through secure VPN connections to the nearest AWS Local Zone.
  4. CEGA enables access to the AWS private backbone.
  5. Mission data is processed in AWS GovCloud with appropriate security controls.
  6. VPN Gateway provides secure access for mission system processing.

The demonstrated solution includes several key components:

  • CEGA Network Foundation for secure backbone connectivity
  • Smart Session Routing (SSR) for intelligent data routing
  • KLAS Voyager and TRX2 systems for edge computing
  • Integrated satellite communications (SATCOM)/5G connectivity
  • Cross-domain data transfer mechanisms

The solution’s Primary, Alternate, Contingency, and Emergency capabilities (PACE) support seamless failover across multiple transport options. Implementation of Juniper’s Session Smart Routing technology enables dynamic network behavior adjustment based on mission requirements, while supporting local router changes without central orchestration.

Results and impact

The PCC5 demonstration at Fort Irwin validated this approach to military communications. The system maintained connectivity through adverse weather, simulated cyber attacks, and changing mission parameters. This stability, combined with dynamic network reconfiguration capabilities, showed CEGA’s potential for supporting various military operations.

Key operational benefits include:

  • Streamlined data transmission workflows
  • Strong security through multi-layer encryption
  • Reliable operations with automated PACE capabilities
  • Simplified complexity for warfighters
  • Support for the Army’s Next Generation Command and Control (NGC2) initiative

Conclusion

The AWS and Lockheed Martin collaboration at PCC5 represents a significant advancement in military technology. By addressing challenges in tactical edge networking, CEGA positions itself as a cornerstone for next-generation military IT infrastructure. As military operations become increasingly data-driven, this evolution in communications infrastructure supports operational superiority in contested environments.

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Tyler Ware

Tyler Ware

Tyler is a solutions architect on the AWS DoD team, supporting Department of Defense Army customers in their cloud adoption journey. In his role, he partners directly with military organizations to architect and implement secure cloud solutions that meet critical mission requirements. With his strong background in cybersecurity and specialized focus on AWS security services, Tyler has been instrumental in helping Army customers successfully navigate complex compliance frameworks including DoD IL4/IL5, FedRAMP, and CMMC requirements. Throughout his career, Tyler has contributed to several significant defense modernization initiatives, designing resilient architectures for mission-critical workloads in AWS GovCloud (US). His technical expertise spans security architecture design, zero-trust implementation, and optimizing defense workloads for both performance and compliance.

Tony Jacobs

Tony Jacobs

Tony is a solution acceleration manager at AWS, leading a specialized team focused on operating at the tactical edge for Department of Defense customers. In his role, he directs efforts to solve complex communications, compute, and integration challenges that military operations face in contested environments. With 25 years of experience as a technical leader, Tony has developed extensive expertise in command and control systems, enabling partners to seamlessly integrate air, surface, ground, and space systems within critical size, weight, and power constraints while maintaining appropriate data handling levels. Throughout his career, Tony has spearheaded the development of commercial solutions for classified systems, advanced mesh networking technologies, military data link products, and sophisticated radar analysis and visualization tools. His deep understanding of defense technology requirements allows him to bridge operational gaps between traditional IT infrastructure and tactical edge computing needs.

Keith Hodge

Keith Hodge

Keith is a principal account executive on the AWS DoD team. In his role, he leads support to defense contractors for Air Force and Combatant Command mission program execution. With over 27 years of experience in the defense technology space, including 21 years of service in the Air Force as a Cyber Systems Engineer, Keith has been at the forefront of numerous major technology modernization efforts throughout his career. His expertise spans complex systems, having served as lead engineer for ocean to orbit sensor networks and global no-fail mission networks. Keith's extensive background in defense technology and military service enables him to provide valuable insights and solutions to contractors working on critical defense programs. His work at AWS helps bridge the gap between cutting-edge cloud technologies and the specific needs of the defense sector, ensuring that mission-critical systems leverage the most advanced and secure cloud capabilities available.