WDM networks for DoD C31 systems in-theater

This paper discusses the development/deployment of two wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) communication systems for use in DoD in-theater (local area network) C3I systems. The first system to be discussed is a WDM fiber optic transmission system, deployed by NATO forces in Germany. This system multiplexes NTSC video, RGB video, audio, and network data onto a single fiber to provide multimedia communications between command and control shelters. The use of this system reduces the number of required fibers from 60 to 18. The second system to be discussed is a WDM ATM fiber optic transmission system, that will multiplex multiple ATM/OC-3 channels. This system, which is being developed, will be integrated with an Air Force Distributed Air Operations Center for test and demonstration in 1997.