The S6 designation in the Army refers to the staff section responsible for signal operations and network communications. The S6 oversees the installation, operation, management, and maintenance of all Army communications systems and networks. This vital staff section ensures that commanders at all levels have the reliable communications capabilities needed to command and control their forces.
What are the responsibilities of the S6 section?
As the Army’s communications experts, the core responsibilities of the S6 section include:
- Advising the commander on communications systems and capabilities
- Planning, installing, and managing communications networks and infrastructure
- Establishing, operating, and maintaining communications centers
- Providing radio, wire, satellite, and network connectivity
- Managing and distributing encryption devices and keys
- Training signal troops on technical skills and operating procedures
- Performing spectrum management and frequency deconfliction
- Conducting information assurance and cybersecurity for communications systems
From large-scale Army Service Component Commands to smaller battalion and company units, the S6 section is responsible for the full range of signal support necessary to enable mission command and network communications.
What are the duties of an S6 Officer or NCO?
The S6 section is led by the S6 Officer, who is supported by S6 Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) and Enlisted Soldiers. Their duties include:
S6 Officer Duties
- Advise the commander on communications capabilities, limitations, and employment
- Lead signal planning, implementation, and management
- Oversee installation, operation, and maintenance of signal equipment
- Direct organizational communications training
- Coordinate communications support with higher headquarters
- Supervise S6 personnel and manage section resources
S6 NCO Duties
- Assist the S6 officer in planning and managing networks
- Lead the operation of communications centers and equipment
- Conduct operator training on signal systems and software
- Perform troubleshooting and maintenance on communications gear
- Monitor communications operations and identify challenges
- Direct and mentor junior signal support Soldiers
The S6 officer focuses on the big picture communication strategy and advisement to the commander, while the NCOs handle detailed technical execution in the field.
What training and skills do S6 personnel need?
Serving in the S6 section requires advanced technical training and skills. Here are some of the main qualifications needed:
- Information Technology: Expertise in areas like network services, server administration, and database management.
- Cybersecurity: Knowledge of cyber threats, vulnerability assessment, and techniques to harden networks.
- Radio Systems: Proficiency installing, configuring, and operating radios and satellite communications.
- Transmission Mediums: Understanding of cable, fiber optic, and wireless transmission technologies.
- Encryption: Ability to operate and manage encryption devices, protocols, and key distribution.
- Spectrum Management: Skills in frequency deconfliction, radio direction finding, and electromagnetic compatibility.
S6 personnel continuously expand their technical skills through training courses, on-the-job experience, and self-development. Knowledge of Army networks and systems is also an important qualification.
What are some tools and systems used by S6 sections?
Army S6 sections employ a vast array of communications systems and tools to enable network connectivity and services. Some examples include:
| System | Description |
|---|---|
| WIN-T | Provides high-speed, high-capacity tactical communications and networking for battalions and above. |
| JNN | Joint Network Node provides beyond line-of-sight satellite and radio connectivity. |
| TROPO | Tropospheric scatter microwave radio systems for long-haul data links. |
| SNAP | Satellite Network Access Point terminals for global comms. |
| MLAW | Mobile Lightweight Access Points supporting WLANs. |
| SKL | Software-programmable cryptographic radio devices. |
| Tactical Operations Centers | Command posts with computers/servers supporting mission networks. |
These tools, combined with radio systems, commercial and tactical transmission equipment, and automated network management software, provide the communications architecture for Army units.
What Army units have S6 sections?
Since reliable communications are essential to all Army operations, S6 sections can be found in units at nearly every echelon across the Army. Some examples of units with organic S6 sections include:
- Brigade Combat Teams
- Division Headquarters
- Corps Signal Battalions
- Theater Signal Brigades
- Army Service Component Commands
- Battalions / Squadrons
- Companies / Troops / Batteries
From small tactical units to major commands, the S6 provides dedicated communications planners, operators, and maintainers to enable the flow of information throughout the Army.
How does the S6 integrate with the G/J/S6 staff?
The S6 works closely with parallel signal staff sections at higher echelons of the Army:
- G6: Communications staff at division and above headquarters.
- J6: Joint communications staff at combatant commands and Joint Task Forces.
- CIO/G-6: Headquarters Dept of the Army CIO/G-6 section.
These higher echelon signal directorates provide resources, technical guidance, and connectivity to support the S6’s communications capabilities. The S6 integrates vertically with these parallel staff sections.
Conclusion
As the Army’s communications specialists, S6 personnel fill a critical role in providing the commanders with the information systems and networks needed to exercise mission command. From managing wide-reaching strategic infrastructure to maintaining tactical radios in the field, the diverse responsibilities of the Army’s S6 sections enable units to operate, communicate, and fight effectively across the full spectrum of missions and environments.