Alternative Force Structuring Strategies for Military Satellite Communication Systems

摘要

The purpose of this study was to determine and examine alternative force structuring strategies for military satellite communication (MILSATCOM) systems. The study was undertaken due to the United States' reliance on relatively few, expensive satellites as critical communication links. Current anti-satellite weapons pose a definite threat to missions using this type of strategy. In response to this situation, proliferated MILSATCOM designs using low earth circular orbits and a highly elliptical (Molniya) orbit were defined and analyzed. The objective of this effort was to compare the proliferated alternative systems' performance and cost with a current MILSATCOM system. The Fleet Satellite Communication (FLTSATCOM) system was used as the baseline system for comparison. Overall, both alternative force structuring strategies provided superior earth coverage when subjected to satellite losses. This was especially evident in the European and Mideast theaters. The Molyniya constellation was the best alternative when considering system performance, system cost, current MILSATCOM system compatibility and the technology required for system implementation.