Using simulation and modeling for advanced SATCOM design verification and operational planning

The Milstar extremely high frequency (EHF) military satellite communications (MILSATCOM) system incorporates a number of technological advancements, such as lens feed antennas and resource controlling payloads, not available in other military owned or commercial SATCOM systems. These advancements add an unprecedented capability to the system; however, they also add complexity to both system design and operational planning. This complexity often requires the use of simulations and models to validate designs and plan system operations. The Milstar Joint Terminal Program Office (JTPO) has developed software tools that can quantify Milstar system performance to support design and planning efforts. This paper provides three examples of how the JTPO uses these tools: to analyze low data rate (LDR) agile beam operations, to analyze the use of the LDR resource monitoring protocol, and to plan optimal positions for steerable spot beams.