The Use of Iridium, a Commercial Telecommunications Satellite System, in Wartime.
Abstract
This study investigates the capabilities and limitations of the commercial telecommunications satellite system, Iridium. In view of the increasing demands for immediate communications in the modern theaters of war, the study analyzes the utility that Iridium could provide the U.S. military telecommunications architecture. The study uses a research methodology composed of a pyramid of subordinate research questions designed to answer a primary question of whether the Iridium system can provide effective support to the U.S. warfighter. A case study of Desert Storm communications demand and a comparative analysis of the capabilities and limitations with existing military Ultra- High Frequency (UHF) communications satellites are accomplished. Effectiveness is determined by examining the suitability, feasibility, and acceptability of Iridium. These factors are systematically determined by identifying any shortfalls in military UHF satellite capacity, analyzing if Iridium can fill such shortfalls, comparing Iridium's capabilities with those of the UHF Follow-On system, and analyzing the cost of the Iridium system. The study's conclusion is that Iridium is both a suitable and feasible supporter of military point-to-point UHF demands. If certain lease limits are met, Iridium's economic acceptability is also assured. Thus, Iridium is an effective system to supplement the military's UHF network.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA312259
Entities
People
- Thomas L. Yoder
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College