We have talked about Winlink 2000, both on the amateur bands and agency licensing. Just received the info below on one of my reflectors: '73 de JIM N2ZZ ARRL Vice Director Roanoke Division ARRL, the national association for Amateur RadioT 022220Z DECEMBER 2011
FM GRIFFIN (CHIEF ARMY MARS) AAA9A FT HUAHCUCA AZ TO STATE AGENCIES
INFO:
ATD-LHCB (Al Melito)
AAA9A AZ
AAA9F AZ
AAA9M AZ
AAA9O AZ
AAA9AC TN
BT
Subj: USE OF WINLINK 2000
1. HQ Army MARS has been directed to phase out Winlink 2000 (WL2K). This decision is based on AR 25-2 (Information Assurance) which defines standards for internet operations. WL2K is unable to achieve the required IA certification.
2. Two other important factors reinforce this decision:(a) the DoDI 4650.02 which specifies MARS must be able to operate in an RF-only environment and (b) support to military and federal agencies requires use of Mil/Fed-Std wave forms.
3. While this is effective immediately agencies will have a transition period to make appropriate operational changes and adjustments for RF only operations.
4. Army MARS is focusing on HF radio for text messages using common military standards.
5 HQ Army MARS is ready to provide assistance and training to agencies if desired.
6. Please contact HQ Army MARS if you have any questions.
BT
Jim Griffin AAA9A
Chief, Army MARS