Integration of Commercial Mobile Satellite Services into Naval Communications

Abstract

Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) need to be integrated into Naval Communications. DoD SATCOM military owned systems fall well short of meeting DoD SATCOM requirements in general and mobile SATCOM specifically. This thesis examines DoD SATCOM requirements, especially those affecting communications on the move. From these requirements, three systems -- Inmarsat, Iridium and Globalstar -- are identified and evaluated for potential use in Naval Communications. An overview of space communications and each of the three systems is provided to identify general operational capabilities, system strengths and system weaknesses. The Naval narrowband functional requirements process is explored and DoD SATCOM and Commercial MSS ability to satisfy those requirements is assessed. Potential Naval MSS communications missions are examined and possible DoD enhancements are considered for each system as well as the impact these enhancements will have on each system. Recommendations are provided as to which Naval communications missions are best suited for these enhanced MSS.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Sep 01, 1997
Accession Number
ADA337021

Entities

People

  • Cary R. Stone

Organizations

  • Naval Postgraduate School

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Artificial Satellites
  • Bandwidth
  • Cellular Networks
  • Command And Control
  • Command And Control Systems
  • Communication Systems
  • Frequency Bands
  • Geosynchronous Orbits
  • Geosynchronous Satellites
  • Information Systems
  • Military Science
  • Mobile Communications
  • Mobile Phones
  • Multiple Access
  • Naval Operations
  • Satellite Communications
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Government Contracting/Procurement.
  • Tactical Satellite Communications Systems Engineering.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Satellites