Dynamic bandwidth and resource allocation (DBRA) for MILSATCOM

A DBRA approach is described that can be employed in a military satellite communication (MILSATCOM) system enabling higher average capacity and increased availability while improving spectral efficiency. The DBRA approach supports three different functions: dynamic coding and modulation (DCM), adapting link rate to link conditions; uplink demand assigned multiple access (DAMA), allowing terminals to get uplink bandwidth based on real-time user needs; downlink statistical multiplexing, enabling the satellite to transmit based on real-time user needs. DCM allows gains in average data rate on the order of 4-10/spl times/ for the uplink and 3-4/spl times/ for the downlink, compared to traditional fixed assignment systems. Furthermore, outage time is reduced by 75%. The DAMA algorithm reduces file transfer times on the order of 2-5/spl times/ compared to fixed capacity assignment, allows more terminals to share the bandwidth, and provides fast response time to users. Finally, downlink statistical multiplexing can lead to significant utilization gains, compared to dedicated access, on the order of 3-5/spl times/.