Ptarmigan Mobile Access - Freedom of Movement for the British Army

Ptarmigan is the tactical area communications system now in use with the British Army. Included in its capabilities is the extension of full service features to mobile subscribers. This paper outlines the Ptarmigan system, concentrating on the access for mobile users and describing the subsystem control features and unique VHF radio design. A summary is provided of the combination of range, spectrum utilization, survivability and ease of use which allows free, rapid, movement in tactical environments.