A Development Case History of Communications Within a Tactical Computer Terminal

The use of remote computer terminals for command and control of ground combat forces in modern warfare has become an acceptable way of doing that business. Military communications networks, which these terminals must use, are evolving into a variety of network architectures that provide voice, message and data connection services to the computer terminals. Design, development, manufacturing and operation of survivable assemblages that merge the terminal and communications interface functions through extensive use of microprocessor technology is becoming an attractive and effective method to meet the information exchange needs on the battlefield. A case history of the development of a Tactical Computer Terminal (TCT) is presented in which user requirements for operational flexibility, modularity and expected growth are solved using a design approach that features an integrated system of hardware and software. The terminal is survivable in the harshest ground military environment and has received enthusiastic acceptance in an early fielding program for operational units in Europe.