Applicability of demand assigned multiple access (DAMA) waveforms for the integrated broadcast service (IBS)

The Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Instruction CJCSI 6251.01, "Ultrahigh Frequency Satellite Communications Demand Assigned Multiple Access Requirements", 31 July 1996, mandates that "All users of non-processed UHF MILSATCOM are required to have DAMA terminals that are interoperable in accordance with MIL-STD-188-181, MIL-STD-188-182, and MIL-STD-188-183". The Integrated Broadcast Service (IBS) Operational Requirements Document (ORD) as a result has directed that "IBS must comply with Joint Staff 5 kHz and 25 kHz mandates and the Joint Staff Demand Assigned Multiple Access (DAMA) mandate". The DAMA goal of providing relief for overburdened UHF satellite assets may result in performance degradation that is prohibitive to the nature and growth of intelligence dissemination. Comparison and analysis of IBS requirements with DAMA protocols and latencies as well as evolving protocols will help ensure prudent decisions can be made regarding the use of defense satellite communications resources.