Tactical line-of-sight path reliability: Propagation climate factors

A line-of-sight propagation reliability working group, convened by the US Army Communications-Electronics Command, has developed a propagation reliability model. The Model includes a climate factor for fading to allow worldwide planning of reliable terrestrial communications links. The authors introduce a new application concept, a monthly climate factor, to meet tactical needs since the probability of fading can vary significantly from month to month. Climate factor estimation is described and illustrated with examples from the Arabian peninsula. The propagation reliability model, including monthly climate factors, has been incorporated in a new battlefield automated radio planning system, the Joint Tactical Area Communications Systems (Provisional) Network Planning Terminal.<>