TACSAT
TACSAT communications is the first radio system to successfully overcome most of the limitations of other radio systems. Using an orbiting satellite repeater illuminates one-third of the earth for direct line of sight (LOS) operations. This makes it possible to establish tactical communications on a scale never before accomplished. With more frequencies available and a single station LOS relay to almost any point on the battlefield, TACSAT equipment greatly enhances communications. TACSAT communications is reliable, flexible, and survivable. It can replace certain links previously provided by conventional LOS radio relay, troposcatter TROPO, high frequency (HF) single sideband (SSB) or frequency modulated (FM) radios. The tremendous bandwidth available and computer switching makes a self-organizing communications network feasible. TACSAT communications is not the answer to all communications problems. However, a well thought-out, properly executed plan that augments the traditional ground-based communications system with appropriate TACSAT resources can improve communications availability, reliability, and flexibility.
Reference File
- Tactical Satellite Communications
- 20 September 1990