Meeting the Call for Sat-Com Solutions in the Field
By: Bruce Philie
The reliable receipt of intelligence is a major obstacle for military units in the field. Oversaturated satellite networks have created a dire need for communications solutions that enable the free flow of intelligence regardless of product size, while a growing call for adaptability and portability has arisen from units across military branches. Whether part of a special operations unit, an artillery unit, an intelligence group, or a domestic response mission, the priorities for land-based sat-com intelligence systems are the same: speed, portability, convenience, and safety.
Speed
High-volume products like detailed imagery or IBS feeds provide key insight for leaders, yet pose a critical problem as they consume gigabytes of data that clog bandwidth on two-way transmit systems. The delays caused by oversaturated satellite networks can threaten mission success, particularly when users are stuck for hours waiting for the pipe to clear. In a non-wartime situation, waiting is a tolerable annoyance – but in combat situations, a clogged pipe that blocks the timely transmission of critical intelligence can severely limit actions and result in loss of life. Field units require both quality and quantity of data – content and speed – a compromise facilitated by receive-only systems. These systems use GBS to offload two-way networks onto a receive line that exclusively takes in high-volume products, freeing bandwidth on two-way systems and enabling a consistent flow of intelligence. Leaders do not have to choose between mission-critical, high-volume items and maintaining open lines when receive-only systems are in play. At speeds of 35 Msps, GBS allows high-speed transmission of high-volume items, while two-way systems can receive intelligence with fewer delays.
Portability
Large systems that require multiple pallets must be transported via cargo plane and are liable to the volatilities of shipment, including delays in scheduling or at customs, or damage en route. Moreover, large systems are impossible to conceal in the field. For units conducting special operations who wish to blend into their locale, portability is not only desirable, it’s essential. Small units can be carried directly onto commercial planes as carry-on luggage, stowed in vehicles, or even transported by hand via duffel bag or backpack, rendering them virtually undetectable and protecting the military identity of users. Convenient transportation options also ensure the system arrives at the same time as its user, mitigating the risk of mission delays.
Convenience:
Time-consuming and complex assemblies can render even the most useful systems cumbersome in the field. Dynamic combat situations and precise intelligence operations require tools to function as an extension of the team. Setup and operation must be intuitive, allowing users to focus on the mission at hand rather than pouring time and resources into troubleshooting technology. Automated systems make setup and operation simple regardless of a user’s background, even for sat-com novices. With the help of automation, users can set up a terminal, connect to GBS, and begin receiving intelligence within minutes. Convenience and utility do not need to be mutually exclusive – automation can bridge that gap.
Safety
In combat situations, the enemy can use satellite signals generated by two-way transmit systems to pinpoint the location of their target. Receive-only systems do not emit satellite signals, protecting from enemy attack by rendering users undetectable. Meanwhile, the user is still receiving critical intelligence to inform next steps.