Application of Tactical Satellite Communications on the Modern Battlefield

This paper discusses the decision process which a Commander of a US Army Corps experiences as he allocates his tactical satellite assets in support of his Command, Control, and Communication (C3) system. The paper analyzes the C3 system utilized by VII (US) Corps in the execution of two phases of its General Defense Plan: transition to war and initial combat operations. The role played by tactical satellite (TACSAT) assets in these phases is discussed in detail. The conclusion of this analysis is that tactical satellite equipment provides a reliable and flexible means of communication which plays a critical role in the overall C3 system of the Corps. The flexibility, reliability, and mobility of tactical satellite assets allows the Corps Commander to utilize TACSAT as a combat force multiplier, insuring that he is able to execute command and control over the entire length and breadth of the modern battlefield.