The Army Unified Network Plan 2.0 (AUNP 2.0) is the latest strategic framework guiding the modernization and integration of the U.S. Army’s information technology infrastructure to meet the demands of contemporary and future warfare. Released in March 2025, AUNP 2.0 builds directly on the foundation established by the original 2021 plan, which focused on unifying disparate Army networks under common standards, systems, and processes to reduce complexity and increase integration.
Key Objectives and Strategic Shifts
While the first AUNP focused on creating a unified network foundation, AUNP 2.0 shifts emphasis to operationalizing and continuously modernizing this network, especially in support of multidomain operations (MDO). The plan recognizes that global events and emerging technologies have created a persistently contested information environment. As a result, AUNP 2.0 prioritizes a data-centric approach, ensuring secure and timely access to data for decision-making at all echelons.
Most importantly, AUNP 2.0 integrates Zero Trust (ZT) cybersecurity principles, aligning with Department of Defense (DoD) and Joint Staff policies. Zero Trust is a security model that assumes adversaries are already inside the network and requires continuous validation of users, devices, and data.
Lines of Effort
AUNP 2.0 is structured around five main Lines of Effort (LOE):
- Establish the Unified Network: Continue to build and expand the foundational network infrastructure.
- Posture the Force to Support MDO: Align network capabilities with the needs of multidomain operations.
- Security and Survivability Based on Zero Trust Principles: Implement robust cybersecurity measures to protect against evolving threats.
- Transform the Army’s Unified Network Investments, Policy, and Governance: Modernize acquisition, governance, and investment strategies.
- Continuously Improve the Unified Network: Foster ongoing innovation and adaptation to new technologies and threats.
Implementation Phases
The program will be implemented in three phases.
- Phase I (Completed in 2023): Established the initial architecture and standards for the Unified Network.
- Phase II (Near Term, 2024–2026): Operationalize the Unified Network by modernizing service delivery, implementing hybrid compute capabilities for tactical formations, and establishing a persistent Mission Partner Environment. This phase also streamlines data flows and reduces administrative complexity.
- Phase III (Beyond 2026): Focuses on continuous modernization and transformation, fully integrating Zero Trust architecture and preparing the network to support future multidomain operations.
Expected Outcomes
Soldiers will have consistent network capabilities whether deployed or at posts, camps, and stations. The network will be agile, adaptable, and capable of rapid movement to the point of need, even in denied, disrupted, intermittent, and limited bandwidth environments. The Army believes that adoption of Zero Trust principles will improve the Army’s ability to defend against sophisticated cyber threats.
You can read (and download) The Army Unified Network Plan 2.0 – Transforming the Unified Network at Echelon below.
