Defense looks to new tech to improve information network

A senior Pentagon official on Thursday announced the implementation of the next-generation Internet protocol to facilitate the integration of sensors, weapons, information systems, and other elements of the Defense Department's "global information grid."

The next generation of the Internet's operating system, known as Internet Protocol Version 6 (IPv6), will replace Internet Protocol Version 4 (IPv4), which the Defense Department has used for nearly 30 years. The new protocol's benefits include expanded IP address space, improved network security and enhanced mobile communications capabilities, according to John Stenbit, the Pentagon's chief information officer.

"Enterprise-wide deployment of IPv6 will keep the warfighter secure and connected in a fast-moving battle space," Stenbit said. Stenbit signed a policy memorandum earlier this week that, beginning in October, requires all network systems purchased by the department to have IPv6-based capabilities, but also to be interoperable with existing IPv4-based systems.