EHF SATCOM and Computer

Abstract

The aging Ultra High Frequency (UHF) Military Satellite Communications system is being phased out and replaced by the Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF) Satellite Communications (SATCOM) system. The B-2 Extremely High Frequency (EHF) SATCOM program supports the replacement of the present UHF Terminal Set with an EHF SATCOM system that will be compatible with the legacy MILSTAR I/II satellite constellation as well as the AEHF satellite constellation. The B-2 EHF SATCOM system is one element of a system-of-systems that includes the AEHF satellites, multiple platforms, and the Family of Advanced Beyond-line-of-site Terminals (FAB-T) or other equivalent terminals (if required). The B-2 EHF SATCOM upgrade is an incremental program. EHF Increment 1 provides upgraded flight management control processors, increased data storage, rehosted Flight Management Operational Flight Program, and a high bandwidth data bus to prevent degradation of existing capabilities. Additionally, the Increment 1 Integrated Processing Unit and Disk Drive Unit architectures establish a high speed fiber optic structure network as well as maintain connectivity to legacy interfaces. EHF Increment 1 provides a processing growth path to future B-2 upgrades. EHF Increment 2 ensures two-way, secure, survivable low probability of intercept/low probability of detection beyond-line-of-site communication in an anti-access area-denial environment. EHF Increment 2 integrates the FAB-T Government Furnished Equipment, or other equivalent terminals (if required), into the B-2 as well as develops and installs a low-observable antenna system consisting of arrays, antenna line replaceable units, and structural modifications for both power and cooling. EHF Increment 2 also implements B-2 unique terminal modifications, as required. This upgrade is critical to ensure the B-2 is compatible with the next generation communications satellite architecture, and provides uninterrupted, highly survivable, two-way communications for the command and control of the nation's strategic nuclear and conventional forces. Connectivity is mandatory to enable network centric enabled attack in an anti-access area denial environment. EHF Increment 2 was defunded in the FY13 President's Budget. The Air Force will pursue the Common Very Low Frequency Receiver to satisfy the immediate user need date for B-2 survivable strategic communication. However, secure, survivable two-way strategic communication remains a requirement for the warfighter. To that end, EHF Increment 2 will continue maturing the array technolgy with residual FY12 funds. This program is in Budget Activity 7, Operational System Development because this budget activity includes development efforts to upgrade systems that have been fielded or have received approval for full rate production and anticipate production funding in the current or subsequent fiscal year.

Document Details

• Document Type: Project
• Publication Date: Oct 01, 2014
• Source ID: 676022_0101127F_7_3600_PB_2014

Tags

Readers

• Civilian Systems Systems Program Capability Development and Upgrade Support Activity Expense and Pay Management.
• Tactical Satellite Communications Systems Engineering.

Technology Areas

• Fully Networked C3
• Fully Networked C3 - Command and Control
• Space
• Space - Satellites