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 Radio™

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