58 -- Transition Switch Module

The Marine Corps Systems Command is initiating a procurement effort to replace its current Unit Level Circuit Switch (ULCS) equipment with a new Transition Switch Module (TSM). The TSM will utilize commercially available circuit switching technology to update and replace the outdated TRI-TAC equipment, specifically the AN/TTC-42 and SB-3865 models. Designed to maintain all existing voice and data services currently offered by USMC switching systems, the TSM will offer a more compact and lightweight solution. In addition to standard switching capabilities, the TSM will feature enhanced multiplexing and Integrated Services Digital Networks (ISDN) capabilities, providing greater flexibility in communication needs. This new unit is intended to bridge legacy TRI-TAC switches with modern commercial technologies, thereby delivering Marine maneuver elements improved voice and data switching, data transport, and bandwidth management. The anticipated form factor for the TSM is a three transit case solution, which will be distributed to all units that currently have circuit switching capabilities. The procurement is being managed under the Department of Defense and is centered at the Marine Corps Systems Command office in Quantico, Virginia, with the solicitation posted in August 2002.