As Marines learned how to take advantage of automation, MCTSSA monitored tactical systems development and prepared for transition and fielding to the Operating Forces.

MCTSSA met the evolving C4ISR needs by changing their core competencies, workforce skill sets, size and composition, infrastructure, facility, and organizational structure.

MCTSSA completed its first decade as a specialist in software support to the Tactical Air Operations Center (TAOC) and PLRS systems.

In the 1980s, computers started to become small and powerful enough to begin to find their way into tactical applications within the Ground Combat Element.

The result was a bow wave of computer-based C4ISR systems moving through the acquisition pipeline and ultimately being fielded.

Program Managers had little or no experience with the acquisition of digital systems or planning for post deployment software support.

Systems acquisition expertise, software/firmware design, software/firmware development and IV&V became important skills in supporting the Program Managers.

MCTSSA was reorganized into commodity divisions such as Air, Ground, Communications, and Intelligence in order to support both the Operating Forces and Acquisition process.

However, MCTSSA was able to develop the capability to become a major influence on the acquisition and support of Marine Corps tactical C4 systems.

In 1992, the initial Letter of intent (LOI) that established the Systems Integration Environment at MCTSSA was signed.