Theater/user-dedicated communications satellite system concept

The results of an ongoing study of a theater/user-dedicated communications satellite system concept, which would augment the existing satellite systems (DSCS and MILSTAR), are presented. The system attempts to satisfy a user requirement in incremental amounts. The study entails requirements analysis, concept exploration, and cost and risk analysis. User requirements are determined from contact with theater users, from requirements generated by other ongoing studies, and from requirements compiled by US Air Force Space Command. The study defined and evaluated ground and space systems and communications payload concepts. Some of the issues analyzed during the study include system capacity, compatibility, and interoperability with other systems; satellite orbit; constellation size; survivability; responsiveness; and launch options. Communications signal options analyzed were RF frequency, modulation, and link power margins in order to determine system capacity and antijam performance. Command and control concepts and issues were also addressed.<
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