Milsatmagazine SATCOM for Net-Centric

SATCOM for Net-Centric Warfare

MilsatMagazineINNOVATION September 2019

The U.S. Air Force’s AEHF-5 satellite lifts off from Cape Canaveral, Florida, via a United Launch Alliance Atlas V 551 rocket. Image is courtesy of the company. Publishing Operations Dispatches Silvano Payne, Publisher + Executive Writer Hartley G. Lesser, Editorial Director United States Space Command is formally established Pattie Lesser, Executive Editor President Donald J. Trump, Donald McGee, Production Manager Vice President Mike R. Pence, Simon Payne, Development Director Secretary of Defense Dr. Mark T. Esper, and U.S. Air Force Teresa Sanderson, Director of Operations General John W. “Jay” Raymond Dan Makinster, Technical Advisor formally established the United States Space Command during a Wendy Lewis, Contributing Editor ceremony held on August 29 at the focused on 1) unifying and leading space Andy Bernard, Reporter White House. capabilities for the Combined Force, and 2) Ashley Kowalski, Reporter maintaining U.S. and Allied advantages in At the direction of the President of space through protection and defense. Sean Payne, Reporter the United States, the Department of Defense (DoD) established U.S. Space USSPACECOM is a Geographic Senior Columnists Command today as the 11th Unified Combatant Command with a global Area Combatant Command, with Raymond as of Responsibility defined as the area Richard Dutchik, Dutchik Communications its congressionally confirmed commander. surrounding the earth at altitudes equal to Chris Forrester, Broadgate Publications Establishing USSPACECOM is a critical or greater than 100 kilometers above mean Karl Fuchs, iDirect Government Services step that underscores the importance (average) sea level. The new command Bob Gough, Goonhilly Earth Station of the space domain and its strategic is globally integrated with the other Rebecca M. Cowen-Hirsch, Inmarsat contributions to U.S. national security. geographic combatant commands and Ken Peterman, Viasat The USSPACECOM establishment will prepared to support its partners to meet Giles Peeters, Track24 Defence accelerate the United States’ space today’s threat on a global scale. Koen Willems, Newtec capabilities to address rapidly evolving threats to U.S. space assets and the From establishment to full operational importance of deterring potential capability, General Raymond will remain adversaries from putting critical U.S. space dual-hatted as the commander of Air This issue’s authors systems at risk. Force Space Command and U.S. Space Command. Dr. Esen Bayer The president’s National Security Strategy David J. Buck and the National Strategy for Space General Raymond said that the scope, Colonel Steven J. Butow highlight space as a strategic domain, and scale and complexity of today’s threat is Emanuel Cavallaro the United States must earn and maintain real and it is concerning. The establishment Raz Cohen space superiority. USSPACECOM’s of a Combatant Command solely focused Dr. Thomas Cooley establishment will modernize and enhance on the space domain, demonstrates the Colonel Eric Felt our approach to space from a domain of United States’ commitment to protecting Ricardo Gonzalez an unchallenged environment to one of a and defending its space assets against that Kim Hampson warfighting domain. threat. He added that space capabilities Rebecca Cowen-Hirsch underpin the security of the U.S., enable Alex Miller The USSPACECOM mission is to deter the nation’s economic prosperity, provide Henrik Nørrelykke aggression and conflict, defend U.S. and for the nation’s way of life, and secures the Ryan Schradin allied freedom of action, deliver space U.S. way of war. By establishing the United combat power for the Joint/Combined States Space Command, which is singularly force, and develop joint warfighters to focused on that warfighting domain, a very advance U.S. and allied interests in, from, clear message has been sent to the world and through the space domain. The that the United States and the nation’s allies command will be postured to protect and will not assume away space superiority. defend, while increasing joint warfighter lethality by executing two primary missions www.spacecom.mil

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Table of Contents Advertiser Index Dispatches...... 2 to 17 Advantech Wireless Technologies, a BAYLIN Technologies Company...... 9 .. State of the Space Industrial Base: Threats, Challenges and Actions 18 AFCEA — MILCOM...... 39 By Dr. Thomas Cooley, Colonel Eric Felt and Colonel Steven J. Butow AvL Technologies...... 11 Briefing: NOW Space, By David J. Buck, Lt. Gen. USAF (Ret.)...... 20 Comtech EF Data...... The Improving World of Military SOTM, By Raz Cohen...... 24 13 Powered by Satellite, by Alex Miller...... 26 CPI Satcom Products...... 15 , by Kim Hampson...... Making MILCOM Better 26 EM Solutions, Inc. (EMS)...... 1 + 3 Making a Way in the Universe, by Ricardo Gonzalez...... 28 iDirect Government...... 17 Lack of Interoperability Inhibits Critical Comms, by Henrik Nørrelykke....30 SmallSat Symposium...... RF Components are the Keys, by Dr. Esen Bayer...... 32 44 Dynamic Satellite COTM is a Reality, by Lyuda Promyshlyayeva...... 34 Spacebridge (formerly Advantech Satellite Networks)...... 5 , by Ryan Schradin...... The Government Satellite Report 36 W.B. Walton Enterprises, Inc...... 7 Launching the Next Chapter of Innovation, by Rebecca Cowen-Hirsch...... 40 Users are Being Sought, by Emanuel Cavallaro...... 42

Dispatches USAF’s AEHF-5 satellite successfully launched by United Launch Alliance The United Launch Alliance Atlas V 551 United Launch Alliance used an Atlas V 551 AEHF satellites provide highly-secure, jam-proof rocket lifted off at 6:13 a.m. EDT (1013 rocket to launch the fifth communications connectivity between U.S. national leadership UTC) on August 8 carrying the fifth satellite in the Lockheed Martin-built Advanced and deployed military forces. Atlas V rockets Advanced Extremely High Frequency Extremely High Frequency (AEHF) series for the successfully launched the first four AEHF (AEHF-5) communications satellite for the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center. satellites in 2010, 2012, 2013 and 2018. U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center from Cape Canaveral, Florida.

Photo of the United Launch Alliance liftoff of the USAF’s AEHF-5 satellite. Image is courtesy of the company.

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The AEHF-5 satellite. Photo is courtesy of Lockheed Martin.

The countdown began on August Following the first stage of flight, to deploy the payloads. From there, After 2 hours, 37 minutes Centaur 7 at 10:54 p.m. EDT under the the Centaur upper stage performed the satellites use their own engines telemetry showed nominal tank guidance of ULA Launch Conductor an initial burn that achieved a in the subsequent days to fly into pressures, bus and battery voltages, Scott Barney. parking orbit. the operational locations 22,300 and good body rates in the roll. miles above the equator. The rocket was powered up and A second burn then injected the The vehicle continues in this underwent standard day-of-launch rocket and payload into a standard The Atlas V is enhancing the AEHF-5 quiescent coast away from Earth, testing while crews finished geosynchronous transfer orbit. The satellite’s trip to space by using heading to a point nearly 22,000 configuring the launch pad. cubesat secondary payload was all of the vehicle’s performance to statute miles in altitude before the then deployed. deliver the payload with a much third and final engine firing The “go” for fueling was given by higher perigee, or low point of the is planned. ULA Launch Director Lou Mangieri At 1 hour, 40 minutes into the transfer orbit, and substantially at 3:27 a.m. on August 8. launch Centaur continued to coast reducing inclination relative to A further update at 3 hours, 6 away from the Earth. In this stage the equator. minutes indicated that this launch Tanking operations were successfully systems were reported nominal as successfully added one more to the performed as 66,000 gallons of the rocket performed a slow roll Those actions by the launch total count making this the 251st liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen to keep the solar heating evenly vehicle will benefit the satellite flight of the Centaur. were placed into the rocket’s tanks. distributed on all surfaces. and conserve its onboard fuel supply by getting AEHF-5 closer to This venerable, U.S. upper stage is The clear to launch was given at At two hours into the launch geosynchronous orbit. the high-energy, hydrogen-fueled 6:07 a.m. EDT by Air Force Mission a typical rocket ascends to rocket that has unlocked access to Director Colonel Shane Clark. geosynchronous transfer orbit. This ULA and the AEHF program the moon and every planet in is the standard dropoff point for produced this ascent profile to the solar system for robotic communications satellites, using maximize mission flexibility over the explorer spacecraft. just two firings by the upper stage satellite’s lifetime. to achieve the highly elliptical orbit

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and military satellites to various Silicon Valley Earth orbits for decades. and is expected to After a five-hour coast away from launch Earth to reach apogee, or the high in 2020. point of the orbit, the Centaur performed a third and final burn The AEHF to benefit AEHF-5 significantly team includes by raising perigee, or the low the U.S. Air Force point of the orbit, and reduced Military Satellite Communications inclination relative to the equator. It Systems Directorate at the Space is advantageous for the satellite to and Missile Systems Center, Los use the remaining performance of Angeles Air Force Base, California. Centaur to put AEHF-5 closer to its Lockheed Martin Space, Sunnyvale, final orbit as is possible. California, is the AEHF prime contractor, space and ground The U.S. Air Force’s 4th Space segments provider as well as Operations Squadron at Schriever system integrator, with Northrop Air Force Base is now “talking” Grumman Aerospace Systems, with the fifth Advanced Extremely Redondo Beach, California, as the High Frequency (AEHF-5) protected payload provider. communication satellite after this successful launch. Mike Cacheiro, VP for Protected Communications at Lockheed Additionally, the Lockheed Martin Space, said this fifth satellite Martin-built AEHF-5 satellite is adds an additional layer of flexibility now responding to the squadron’s for critical strategic and tactical commands, as planned. protected communications serving the warfighter. This added resilience The squadron began “flying” the to the existing constellation will satellite shortly after it separated help ensure warfighters can connect from its United Launch Alliance Atlas globally to communicate and V 551 rocket, approximately 5 hours transmit data at all times. and 40 minutes after the rocket’s successful 6:13 a.m. ET liftoff. He added that in the weeks ahead, The first operational payloads launched Reconnaissance Orbiter, Curiosity AEHF-5 will move toward its by Centaur were Surveyor missions rover, MAVEN orbiter and InSight AEHF-5 completed a geostationary operational orbit, deploy all of its that sent landers to touch the lander all departed Earth for the red ring of five satellites delivering global solar arrays and antennas, and turn lunar surface. planet thanks to Centaur. coverage for survivable, highly secure on its powerful communications and protected communications for payload for a rigorous testing Mariner missions went to Mars, Venus The stage has evolved considerably strategic command and tactical phase prior to hand over to the and Mercury, Pioneer 10 went by from its early days, becoming more warfighters operating on ground, sea U.S. Air Force. Cacheiro added Jupiter, and Pioneer 11 visited both capable, more powerful and more and air platforms. that individual data rates increase Jupiter and Saturn. Vikings 1 and 2 accurate. It has flown on numerous five-fold compared to Milstar, launched to Mars, Voyagers 1 and Atlas and Titan rocket configurations. In addition to U.S. forces, AEHF permitting transmission of tactical 2 explored the gas giants in our also serves international partners military communications, such as outer solar system, Cassini orbited In addition to planetary exploration, including Canada, the Netherlands real-time video, battlefield maps Saturn, New Horizons flew by Centaur has served as a linchpin in and the United Kingdom. and targeting data. Pluto, and more recently the Mars launching communications, weather AEHF-5, with its advanced Cacheiro concluded by stating Extended Data Rate (XDR) AEHF affords national leaders anti- waveform technology, adds to the jam, always-on connectivity during constellation’s high-bandwidth all levels of conflict and enables network. One AEHF satellite both strategic and tactical users to provides greater total capacity than communicate globally across a high- the entire legacy five-satellite Milstar speed network that delivers protected communications constellation. communications in any environment.

Lockheed Martin designed, www.ulalaunch.com processed and manufactured all five on-orbit AEHF satellites at its www.lockheedmartin.com advanced satellite manufacturing facility in Sunnyvale, California. The next AEHF satellite, AEHF-6, is currently in full production in

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Dispatches: South Australian SMEs win defense industry contracts

electromagnetic battle management that integrates existing technologies.

“Each time the Defence Innovation Hub invests in a local company, it supports local jobs and gives Australian companies the opportunity to develop world-class capabilities,” Minister Price said.

Then there’s a device that could soon have Australian farmers looking to the stars, rather than the skies for their weather information following the development of a rain gauge that uses a satellite network to transmit remote rainfall data.

South Australian satellite Dr. Matthew Tetlow of Inovor Technologies, based at Lot 14 in Adelaide, South Australia. communications company Myriota and Queensland AgTech business Defense industry SMEs Inovor designs and integrates Electronics engineering company Goanna Ag have partnered to from South Australia have smallsats, including their own Solinnov was awarded $2.3 develop the ‘everywhere’ solution won more than $8 million InoSat nanosatellite, a turnkey million to develop a software that they say will unlock the power in contracts to provide the surveillance pod to protect satellites defined radio (SDR) system with of remote monitoring at a price and Australian Defence Force with from space junk. applications across electronic scale never seen before. a capability edge. warfare, communications and The InoSat is a less expensive sensing domains. Myriota’s direct-to-orbit satellite Of the 15 contracts valued at alternative to directing space traffic network for the Internet of Things (IoT) more than $28 million awarded and can also be used to study The Australian Defence Force is means data from the devices can be to Australian small businesses climate change, natural disasters interested in the technology because transmitted in remote areas without developing cutting-edge defense and general agriculture on Earth. of its potential to replace multiple internet or mobile phone coverage. technologies, four are based in pieces of equipment with a single, South Australia. In April of this year, Inovor won lightweight, portable solution. Article by Jim Plouffe, The Lead a $272,000 Defence Innovation (theleadsouthaustralia.com.au/) Australian Minister for Defence Hub grant to prove the company’s Solinnov, established in 2010, is Industry Melissa Price said this algorithm can stabilize control based in the in Mawson Lakes www.inovor.com.au tranche of investments from the systems to keep satellites fixed on Technology Park, north of Adelaide, Defence Innovation Hub included specific positions. as well as are many other defense www.solinnov.com.au initial concept exploration and industry companies. technology demonstration, “The stabilizing technology enables www.consunet.com.au/ through to prototyping very fine pointing with as little jitter IT company Consunet, based in and integrated capability as possible, focusing on stars for the Adelaide suburb of Thebarton, www.qinetiq.com/au demonstration and evaluation. long periods of time,” Inovor CEO was given $180,000 to develop a Dr. Tetlow said. software capability to enable myriota.com The South Australian companies are Inovor Technologies, Solinnov www.goannaag.com.au and Consunet, while QinetiQ, an international company with offices in Adelaide, was awarded $280,000 to develop an alternative electrical power micro-grid solution for deployed forces.

Inovor Technologies was awarded a $5.7 million contract to deliver a prototype smallsat to enhance space situational awareness (SSA), which is aimed at growing Australia’s space capability and could contribute to the global This Goanna Ag rain gauge will use Myriota’s direct-to-orbit satellite space surveillance network. network to share data with its owner. Photo: Julian Simon Nguyen.

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Dispatches: Kleos Space gains USAF SBIR Phase 1 contract

Security Innovation Network The multi-satellite Scouting Mission and AFWERX, are experiments system will form the foundation of a to increase the efficiency, constellation that delivers a global effectiveness, and transition rate of picture of hidden maritime activity, the SBIR program. enhancing the intelligence capability of government and commercial Through a competitive awards- entities when AIS (Automatic based program, SBIR enables small Identification System) is defeated, businesses to explore technological imagery is unclear, or targets are out potential and provides the incentive of patrol range. to profit from commercialization. Artistic rendition of a Kleos Space Scouting Mission smallsat. Kleos’ Head of U.S. Strategy, Kleos was successful in its Karyn Hayes-Ryan, said that Kleos Space S.A. (ASX: KSS, The Small Business Innovation presentation of the Kleos’ Scouting participation by Kleos in the Frankfurt: KS1) has been Research (SBIR) program is a Mission under AF192-001 and is SBIR program is a welcomed awarded a United States highly competitive program that participating in Phase I of opportunity for the company Air Force Small Business encourages small businesses to the program. to provide access to numerous Innovation Research (SBIR) engage in U.S. Federal Research/ Department of Defense entities. Phase 1 contract with a focus Research and Development Phase 1 is to be completed by on “Innovative Defense-Related (R/R&D) that has the potential for October 23, 2019, with delivery of a The first scouting mission is Dual-Purpose Technologies/ commercialization. report including technical feasibility, made up of 4x smallsats built by Solutions with a Clear Air Force financial sustainability and meeting GomSpace in Denmark. Stakeholder Need.” The special U.S. Air Force defense needs serving as a gateway (USAF) SBIR topics, developed to a Phase 2. www.kleosglobal.com in partnership with the Air Force Research Laboratory, National gomspace.com

Dispatches: C-COM debuts their latest, auto-pointing antenna

This sturdy and lightweight system will point to any programmed satellite with just the push of a button on the NEW iNetVu® 8020 Controller.

Highly portable, the multi- segment manpack can be easily hand-carried by one person C-COM’s iNetVu® Ka-75V Driveaway. and assembled in less than 10 minutes without tools. The iNetVu® FLY-981 Flyaway was also on display at the Also presented at the show C-COM booth. Paired with was the company’s iNetVu® the iNetVu®7710 Controller, Ka-75V Driveaway, the 75cm, the fully automatic and auto-deploy, vehicle-mounted transportable 98cm Ku-band antenna, authorized for use on flyaway antenna system comes ViaSat Exede® Enterprise, and in three robust cases and can be on KA-SAT NEWSSPOTTER field converted to Ka-band. C-COM’s iNetVu® MP-80-MOT NEWSGATHERING service During the recent IBC2019 Highlighting the latest in C-COM by Eutelsat. www.c-comsat.com event in Amsterdam, many design is the iNetVu® MP-80- companies shared their latest MOT, a fully motorized, auto- The system is fully motorized and greatest — among those acquire, 80 cm. carbon fiber one- and configured with the presenting their newest case backpack antenna. iNetVu® 7024 Controller technologies was C-COM and to provide fast satellite the firm’s new, auto-pointing acquisition within minutes, antenna and steerable phased anytime anywhere. array antenna.

12 MilsatMagazine —September 2019 Dispatches: Viasat completes NATO SATCOM control stations upgrades

Viasat Inc. (NASDAQ: VSAT change. By enabling interoperability Ken Peterman, President, deliver a cost-effective, scalable and has successfully upgraded between DAMA and IW platforms, Government Systems, Viasat, added interoperable technology capability the North Atlantic Treaty NATO can double its channel that this NATO upgrade was fielded needed to support emerging Organization’s (NATO) Ultra efficiency without additional on time and under budget — further mission demands and help NATO High Frequency (UHF) satellite investment in the UHF space demonstrating the value of Viasat’s warfighters maintain communications communications (SATCOM) segment. This optimization doubles agile business models and deep at the tactical edge. control stations to comply the number of users, giving more customer knowledge. with the new Integrated warfighters access to reliable, high- www.viasat.com Waveform (IW) baseline. quality, resilient voice and Peterman added that by working data communications. closely to understand NATO’s most www.nato.int Using Viasat’s Visual Integrated urgent needs, Viasat was able to Satellite communications Information, Operation and Networking (VISION) software platform, NATO gains greater communications interoperability, scalability and flexibility across legacy and next- generation platforms, which it expects will significantly enhance warfighters’ situational awareness and operational insights on the battlespace.

Viasat’s VISION platform is the first commercially-available software package to simultaneously support all 25-kHz legacy Demand-Assigned Multiple-Access (DAMA) and next- generation IW networks and services. The VISION platform has enabled the following benefits for NATO:

• Faster communications: VISION reduced time to access software from 90 seconds to 4 seconds • Better reliability: VISION offered greater reliability when compared to previous waveforms • Improved functionality: VISION doubled NATO’s channel efficiency • Enhanced bandwidth: VISION gave network operators real-time capabilities to reconfigure UHF satellite networks to meet new mission profiles on-the-fly.

The Viasat VISION platform (select this direct link to view an informative video) provides a single, user-friendly network management interface for legacy DAMA and IW services, inclusive of the ability to locally or remotely manage and control ground station networks, monitor status and system performance, track event/alarm management situations and add/ remove services when missions

MilsatMagazine — September 2019 13 Dispatches: Get SAT and GRC forge a strategic, cooperation relationship

A collaboration of talents The companies have created a Iain Pope, GRC Chairman, reported minutes. The high-level of has been finalized between strategic relationship that will that their customers have been terminal efficiency also means Get SAT, a developer of target U.K. security, defense consistently impressed by Get SAT they’re able to offer their small, lightweight satellite and government markets with terminals and their ability to deliver customers great value, effectively communication terminals Communications-On-The-Move high-bandwidth communication on- delivering more ‘bandwidth for for airborne, ground, and (CoTM) broadband platforms based the-move, with relatively low size, your buck’ than they’re able to maritime applications, and on Get SAT’s terminals. weight and power demands. offer with other terminals. GRC (Global RadioData Communication Ltd.), who The companies participated in Pope noted that this has allowed Kfir Benjamin, CEO of Get SAT, specialize in the design and the DSRI (Defence & Security GRC to offer solutions that stated that uniting Get SAT’s CoTM development of mission Equipment International) in London would previously have proved systems with GRC’s mission critical critical communication and and ushered in a new era of impossible due to unique vehicle solutions provide the ultimate, situational awareness systems. COTM, powered by direct, high requirements and even lead flexible and seamless on-the-move bandwidth, real-time video, audio to them developing their own answers for a wide range of and data communication. magnetic mount, for easy walk applications required by U.K. clients on fit, allowing terminals to be such as search and rescue, military installed and removed within and other security assignments. With Get SAT systems already deployed in various missions around the world, we look forward to growth in the U.K.

www.getsat.com

grcltd.net

14 MilsatMagazine — September 2019 Dispatches: USSPACOM Commands

U.S. Space Command The JTF-SD will be commanded Commander General John W. by Brigadier General Thomas L. “Jay” Raymond, in his first James, with a mission to conduct official directives, established space superiority operations in two subordinate commands unified action with mission partners that will jointly provide to deter aggression, defend space support to the new Unified capability, and when directed, Combatant Command. defeat adversaries throughout the continuum of conflict. The JTF-SD Combined will execute its protect and defend Force Space mission through various operations Component centers, including National Space Command Defense Center at Schriever Air and Joint Force Base, Colorado; Space Task Force Situational Awareness Units; and Space Emerging Space Defense Units. Defense will focus the The CFSCC will be commanded planning and by Major General Stephen Whiting General John W. execution of with a mission to plan, integrate, “Jay” Raymond. global space conduct, and assess global space operations, activities and missions operations in order to deliver into two areas: combat relevant space capabilities to Combatant Commanders, • Protection and defense Coalition partners, the Joint Force, from threats to U.S. space and the Nation. CFSCC plans and capabilities/forces executes space operations through • Maintaining and growing four distinct and geographically our national security space dispersed operations centers, programs, combat-relevant including: Combined Space space capabilities, and Operations Center at Vandenberg space cadre talent to AFB, California; Missile Warning increase warfighter lethality Center at Cheyenne Mountain Air Force Station, Colorado; Joint General Raymond said that Overhead Persistent Infrared Center to ensure USSPACECOM can at Buckley AFB, Colorado; and Joint conduct its mission decisively, he Navigation Warfare Center located is establishing two subordinate at Kirtland AFB, New Mexico. commands with distinct and Additionally, CFSCC executes defined mission areas to ensure the tactical control over a number of Air command is postured to protect Force, Army, and Navy space units. and defend, while also increasing joint warfighter lethality and General Raymond added that strengthening partnerships. over the past decade, the great power competitors have developed The establishment of the technologies that threaten this Department of Defense’s 11th nation’s critical national assets in COCOM dedicated to space space. The U.S. has no desire to see operations reflects the value of a conflict in space and the nation is space contributions to national working hard to ensure no country security, the evolution of the threats believes they can gain a terrestrial to U.S. space systems, and the advantage by extending a conflict to importance of deterring potential space. It’s important to understand adversaries from challenging or that, like all nations, the U.S. has the attacking U.S. space systems. These inherent right of self-defense, so subordinate commands will have a purposeful interference with space direct impact on that mission. assets vital to U.S. national security will be met by leveraging the nation’s multi-domain capabilities across air, land, sea, cyber and space, and all instruments of national power.

MilsatMagazine — September 2019 15 Dispatches: GPS III SV 2 launches successfully

A Delta IV carrying the GPS III SV2 satellite lifts off from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station’s SLC-37, August 22. Photo is courtesy of ULA — photo by Jeff Spotts)

The U.S. Air Force and its ensure the ULA Delta IV rocket met Speed. With a third GPS launch mission partners successfully all mission requirements, which planned for the end of the year, launched the second Global included examining every single we continue to provide the “Gold Positioning Systems (GPS) piece of hardware that built the Standard” in positioning, navigation III satellite at 9:06 a.m. EDT, rocket. This due diligence enabled and timing services for our military August 22 from Space Launch the satellite to be reliably placed on and for the world.” Complex-37 at Cape Canaveral orbit to meet civilian and warfighter Air Force Station, Florida. communications needs. GPS III’s Magellan separated from its upper stage approximately The Lockheed Martin-built satellite, “A successful launch such as this 1 hour and 56 minutes after known as “Magellan” (in honor of is always a proud moment for the launch. Engineers and operators Ferdinand Magellan, the Portuguese team and its many members. I can’t at Lockheed Martin’s Waterton navigator who led the first reiterate how important this second facility started on-orbit checkout expedition to circumnavigate the GPS III launch is as we progress and tests, which are estimated to globe), was carried to orbit aboard a toward a modernized fleet and be completed within one month. United Launch Alliance Delta IV (4,2) maintain U.S. superiority in space,” Operational use is expected to start launch vehicle, the final flight for the said Lt. Gen. John F. Thompson, within a year Delta IV medium launch vehicle. SMC commander and Air Force program executive officer for Space. “This launch was 7 months in the The USAF Space and Missile Systems making. As soon as we launched Center (SMC was responsible “The launch of Magellan epitomizes Vespucci last December, the team for Magellan’s rigorous Mission the constant collaborative efforts got to work on the SV02 campaign Assurance certifications and testing which exemplify the continual to get Magellan into orbit,” stated leading to full launch- and mission- improvements our teams at SMC said Col. Edward Byrne, Medium readiness. SMC also conducted are making in getting these Earth Orbit (MEO) Spacecraft a rigorous source selection to satellites built and launched at EPIC Production Division chief. “This isn’t

16 MilsatMagazine — September 2019 the end of our job with Magellan. “SMC 2.0” initiatives, as even more SMC 2.0 encompasses the We now have to carry out on- satellites await their ride to orbit. collaborative nature of the space orbit checkouts, in parallel with enterprise and embraces the agility preparations to launch SV03; not to The U.S. is entering a new era with of production driving forward. mention the continual production space as a Warfighting domain, and effort of SV04. That is why the SMC is leading the way with more Another launch of GPS III is planned Production Corps space vehicles significant U.S. acquisition agility for later this year. division is known as the ‘A-Team’.” initiatives that will birth innovation within the space enterprise and Magellan will join the current GPS speed the delivery of crucial new constellation comprised of 31 capabilities to Warfighters. operational spacecraft, and will be the 21st M-Code-capable satellite This second successful GPS III added to the fleet. GPS satellites launch is an exemplary case of operate in MEO at an altitude of SMC’s ongoing transition to the approximately 20,200 km (12,550 miles) in six planes.

Each satellite circles the Earth twice per day, providing the “Gold Standard” of position, navigation and timing services for billions of users worldwide. GPS III, the newest generation of GPS satellites, brings new capabilities to users, including three times greater accuracy and up to eight times improved anti- jamming capabilities.

“Having launched a GPS III satellite in December 2018 aboard a Falcon 9 and now today on a Delta IV, the team demonstrated again their commitment and capability to achieve 100 percent mission success,” said Col. Robert Bongiovi, Launch Enterprise director.

SMC’s Production Corps, located at Los Angeles Air Force Base in El Segundo, California, leads the GPS III Magellan team. SMC’s Launch Enterprise led the launch, which took place at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.

Lockheed Martin Space Systems Corporation is the prime satellite vehicle contractor. Air Force Space Command’s 50th Space Wing and 2nd Space Operations Squadron operate the GPS constellation from Schriever Air Force Base, Colorado.

SMC is the U.S. Air Force’s Center of Acquisition Excellence for acquiring and developing military space systems. Its portfolio includes GPS, military satellite communications, defense meteorological satellites, space launch and range systems, satellite control networks, space- based infrared systems and space situational awareness capabilities.

MilsatMagazine — September 2019 17 The Air Force Research Laboratory’s mission “The United State of the Space is leading the discovery, development, and States of integration of warfighting technologies for our air, America has Industrial Base: space and cyberspace forces. no intention of finishing Threats, Challenges and Actions With its headquarters at Kirtland Air Force Base, second in A Whitepaper Executive Summary New Mexico, the Space Vehicles Directorate space. This serves as the U.S. Air Force’s “Center of effort is By Dr. Thomas Cooley, Air Force Research Laboratory Excellence” for space research and development. expensive — Colonel Eric Felt, Air Force Research Laboratory but it pays Colonel Steven J. Butow, Defense Innovation Unit The Directorate develops and transitions space its way for technologies for more effective, more affordable freedom and warfighter missions. The Defense Innovation Unit’s for America.” mission is to accelerate commercial innovation President for national security. It does so by increasing the John. F. adoption of commercial technology throughout Kennedy the military and growing the national security The Air Force Research Laboratory’s mission innovation base. is leading the discovery, development, and integration of warfighting technologies for DIU’s Space Portfolio facilitates Department of our air, space and cyberspace forces. Defense (DoD) partners’ ability to access and leverage the growing commercial investment in

Illustration depicting Spaceflight Industries’ successful deployment of 64 satellites on its SSO-A dedicated rideshare mission which launched to LEO on December 3, 2018. Illustration is courtesy of Spaceflight Industries.

18 MilsatMagazine — September 2019 new space to address existing capability gaps, Creating and maintaining the required space Chinese industrial policies of economic improve decision making, enable a shared industrial base faces external and internal aggression, such as investment-driven technology common operating picture with allies, and help threats and challenges. Externally, our present transfer and illegal intellectual property theft, preserve the United States’ superiority in space. and potential adversaries and rivals recognize pose a multifaceted threat to our entire national the growing importance of assured space security innovation base.2 This white paper executive summary is to draw capabilities. For this reason, they have developed attention to a call to action to address present and are executing comprehensive national Internally,the challenge is developing an industrial and emerging challenges and threats to the U.S. space strategies aimed at actively competing base that outpaces our inter-national adversaries space industrial base and space dominance. The with, complementing, and, in certain respects, and competitors in speed and innovation in full paper summarizes the discussions, conclusions displacing, the United States as ‘the ’or ‘one of developing new space capabilities and in and recommendations from a meeting on March the’ dominant space powers. continually upgrading existing ones. This requires 11 and 12, 2019, of interested parties and experts gathered from across government, academia and While this increased international attention poses Upgrade of our own methodologies such as industry sponsored by the Air Force Research significant, overarching challenges, China’s approach shared, trusted supply chains and interoperable Laboratory (AFRL) and the Defense Innovation in terms of means, methods and effects presents technology standards that accelerate viable Unit (DIU). particular threats to the U.S. space industrial base. commercialization of the space economy We are here to underscore the urgency with which The meeting was motivated by the recognition all of us must focus our actions to maintain our The development of more flexible, U.S.-led that in an ever more global and interconnected technological and military dominance. markets for space capabilities that spread the risk, world, commercial, civil and national defense increase the pool of investors and establishes our space capabilities are increasingly vital to The breadth and depth of Chinese malfeasance Nation’s leadership role in setting the inter national power. with regard not only to our technology, but also to our larger economy and our nation is significant Changes in U.S. government procurement and To preserve and expand that power requires a and intentional.1 licensing processes and other regulations to coordinated national space strategy and a vibrant, eliminate unnecessary delays and micromanagement competitive and agile U.S. space industrial base The key threatening elements of the Chinese of the space industrial base’s ability to deliver to execute that strategy. strategy include next generation space capabilities and to enable early U.S. investment in emerging capabilities. The objectives of this meeting were to examine • Theft of intellectual property combined with a concerted For the United States to be a dominant force in • The increasing contribution of and effective drive to create the future space economy during peacetime space to national economic, organic,national expertise across key and to monitor and engage decisively in space political and military power... space science and technology areas when national security is threatened, we require a • The U.S. space industrial • Direct integration of state- unified and comprehensive national strategy that base required to ensure owned corporations and their builds and continually refreshes a strong space and expand that power technologies with commercial,space industrial base. • Current and emerging startup-companies challenges and threats to • Penetration of American companies The group recommends urgent attention to the the space industrial base to obtain and further exploit U.S. development of this strategy as detailed in the • Potential strategies to address technology or to influence those Conclusions and Recommendations section those challenges and threats. companies in a direction that serves of the entire white paper, which is accessible China’s domestic space priorities at this direct infolink: We define the ‘U.S. space industrial base’ as the • Investment in the U.S. space private-sector, industry-suppliers of technology, industrial base via front companies References hardware, software, systems, data and financial and multi-level off-shore accounts to and insurance capacities that grow the space facilitate early venture technology 1Testimony of USD(R&E) Mike Griffin economy to serve our nation’s civilian, civil and surveillance, infrastructure access to House Armed Services Committee’s national security interests. and control of developing space Military Personnel Subcommittee capabilities and intellectual property (June 2018). State of the Space The U.S. space industrial base is presently a • Obtaining vertical control of the Industrial Base: Threats, Challenges relatively small, nascent part of the national and key space capabilities ’supply & ActionsAFRL-DIU | May 20193 global economy. As such, it remains particularly chains or control of sufficient vulnerable to, and the government must protect elements of those supply chains so 2Testimony of DASD Eric Chewning it from, manipulation, distortion, penetration as to influence space capabilities to House Armed Services and domination by our adversaries, allies and development in their favor Committee’s Military Personnel neutral countries. • Predatory pricing of space Subcommittee (June 2018). capabilities or elements of key While the U.S. has long played a dominant role space supply chains to control in space and continues to make significant space or dominate the market investments across civil, military and commercial • Use of state-sponsored venture space, the overall domestic effort is insufficiently capital, finance and market control integrated, focused and leveraged to address mechanisms to surveille U.S. the challenges and threats to our Nation’s technology,interdependencies, dominant position. business model innovations and other advanced concepts.

MilsatMagazine — September 2019 19 Kudos especially to the Commercial briefing: NOW SPACE sector because commercial space has morphed into a powerful force and willing ally for both the National Security and the Normalizing, Optimizing and Winning in the space domain scientific community. It’s heartening to see government agencies and commercial By David J. Buck, Lieutenant General, USAF (Ret.), former Commander, 14th companies driving the Air Force, Air Force Space Command, Joint Functional Component Command space industry forward for Space — U.S. President and CEO, Buck Consulting Group today. The space industry is on the cusp of great progress with respect to growth, exploitation and partnerships in the space domain to the extent we have not experienced Before I launch into this article, I want in decades. to recognize those leaders in the Department of Defense (DoD), Civil and That’s a big statement and there is reason to be Commercial sectors who are leading cautious. In the early 1990s, industry analysts the charge to normalize and optimize projected massive growth in the space industry. the space domain.

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20 MilsatMagazine — September 2019 Many analysts, including the Commercial Space Assuming Risk and Partnering These platforms are no longer simply demonstrators Transportation Advisory Committee, predicted on orbit. As a result, LEO is now very lucrative for an era where large rockets would launch 20 to 30 Failure is an option. We go faster when leadership, the DoD and commercial alike. It’s not a stretch to times a year with profit-generating satellites for both in government and industry, embrace a say that we are on the cusp of a LEO space race. telecommunication companies. The fervor drove culture of risk tolerance. Don’t get me wrong, we For all the following reasons: the government and many companies to invest shouldn’t celebrate failure; however, incremental in infrastructure, equipment and capabilities that setbacks oftentimes lead to monumental success. • Cost to orbit is down through: were either never used or underutilized. We can learn and advance from failure. ◊ Multi-mission manifesting ◊ Dedicated small launch vehicles What’s different this time? I’m more optimistic For the DoD, partnering with commercial becoming operational about substantial growth in the commercial companies is not only smart, it’s a must-do in ◊ Large launch vehicles space sector because over the past two decades order to move fast with cost-efficient and cutting- competing for business we acknowledged and educated the American edge capabilities. The new sound bite across public that space is no longer exclusively linked to both commercial and DoD sectors is that space • New spaceports with geographic science or the DoD. can be cheaper, faster and better. diversity are coming online

We had to change this mindset before there was In space, GEO used to be the coveted piece of • LEO brings resiliency through a business case for commercial entities because real estate. Now, LEO is the new GEO. We have orbital speed, numbers and size space did not relate (in their minds) to the everyday the commercial world to thank for that as small needs of John Q. Public. Today, we have business satellites (smallsats) are big business. • Greater persistence through: and political leaders who are not afraid to take ◊ Redundancy risks in space to benefit the public good. We We are witnessing a movement toward resiliency ◊ Reduced latency have disruptive technologies, innovative satellite and augmentation through swarms of small, ◊ Ease of replenishment busses, and lower cost launch access capable of micro, or nano satellites that are less expensive, ◊ Ease of tech refresh bringing logistics and business to space. easier to launch, simpler to update and harder to defeat.

MilsatMagazine — March 2019 21 Technology Enables Growth Logistics in Space mounting areas and easy application of telemetry, tracking and command (TT&C) through flexible Nearly all great endeavors start with government Logistics are foundational to all operations — ground stations. funding... crossing continents, exploring new civilian and military alike. “Beans, Bullets, and lands, sending humans to the moon, developing Bandages” must be forward deployed to support Given my heritage as an operator and space the internet, etc. At some point, financial profit is the operation and provide the right equipment normalization proponent, I’m enamored with viable and private companies capitalize from new- at the right time. In today’s space environment, Moog’s Orbital Maneuvering Vehicle (OMV) family found resources, technology or human expanse. the focus is on rapid launch and constellation of spacecraft and would place its revolutionizing replenishment either with long planning intervals capabilities as one of the top game changers of That’s where we are today with space. Private or only after an event (e.g., failure) has occurred. this decade. The OMV can serve as a “third stage” companies and startups are bringing innovative kick motor or operate as a fully capable long- ways to drive down the cost of space access. New Rarely discussed are logistics requirements duration satellite bus, a mother ship, etcetera... technologies such as additive manufacturing, associated with the space domain. To normalize, the space applications are nearly limitless. augmented reality, machine learning and digital optimize and win space, this must change. twins are rapidly advancing industries and none Logistics prepares the domain, first in and last In my book, nothing to date is as flexible or faster than in the space industry. Space is a out, in the air, land and sea domains; however, adaptable for launch. Once in space, the OMV domain where human-to-machine, machine-to- this fundamental tenet is not mature yet in the has stunning on-orbit flexibility and performance machine and artificial intelligence (AI) should be space domain. that places it at the top of my list. Prior to launch, the norm not the exception. it is positioned in the load path of the rocket We wouldn’t think of conducting an operation directly beneath the primary payload at nominal Whoever masters AI will move to the next in any other domain without prepositioning cost because the rocket is already carrying the plateau in dominance, decision making and assets for sustainment, replenishment or primary payload. It is highly secure because it is influence. Today, and in the future, strategists refurbishment. We need the same mentality and integrated in a Payload Processing Facility and must understand competitors will leverage AI capability in space. the payload fairing encapsulates both the primary and machine learning capabilities. In conflict or spacecraft and the OMV, down to the Payload competition, the winning side will be the one with Many new agencies and startups are focusing Attach Fitting. the most secure, networked and autonomous on smaller satellites ranging from 50 to 500 kg. systems capitalizing on machine learning With new technology and better subsystem Once on-orbit, it can maneuver to an entirely new applications. LEO satellite networks will be the components, the push for low cost, high orbit, change planes or completely leave Earth’s key to leveraging AI. production satellites is the new norm, especially gravitational pull providing unseen maneuvering satellite busses with open architectures. This flexibility for mission requirements. It can serve as allows multiple payloads to leverage commercial a spacecraft bus providing all the health, TT&C capabilities quickly and use known bus capabilities and payload monitoring as a traditional bus with sufficient power, standardized payload with proven performance. When payloads are

Artistic rendition of Moog’s Orbital Maneuvering Vehicle (OMV).

22 MilsatMagazine — September 2019 attached, they can be separable or non-separable In October of 2017, allowing for easier mission design, deployment, the Space and Missile disinformation and proliferation capabilities. Systems Center (SMC) formed the Space Finally, an OMV equipped satellite with Moog’s Enterprise Consortium own BRE-440 processor is capable of handling (SpEC) to use OTAs large amounts of radiation and can operate in the as a means for rapid harshest environments. prototyping. Now SpEC members from The simplicity, reliability and industry-recognized large companies to interfaces also make the OMV a tremendously small companies can capable satellite bus. The spacecraft is built from assist the Government the ESPA ring that has already been used on many in identifying government and commercial missions where challenges, prioritizing small satellites are integrated. There is inherent which challenges get integration flexibility that permits stacking ESPA solicited, and select rings to create large constellations on short order. the highest priority Each port can carry satellites from 180 up to 700 project submitted kg., based on configuration. through the SpEC. Over the next few months we will see the Moog’s OMV can host satellites, provide Constant innovation and rapid technology Space Development Agency (SDA) finding their power, battery conditioning, and carry payloads delivery will be deployed to improve system stride. On July 1, 2019, they released their first designed to separate or be hosted for their responsiveness and survivability on more RFI outlining their proposed architecture for complete mission life. The five-year orbital life frequent, regularly scheduled launches. eight essential capabilities. In their RFI, and as allows payloads to be placed on the ports to presented at the SDA Industry Day on July 23, wait to be dispensed at a time and place of the Also, in 2017 Defense Innovation Unit Experimental 2019, they used the terms “proliferation”, “global customer’s choosing. (DIUx) dropped its “x” mark showing it has an persistence” and “distributed” to describe the official permanence in DoD acquisitions. DIU uses goals of their notional architecture. The baseline ESPA structure is modular with a a unique approach to strengthen national security set of “building-block” subsystem components by accelerating the adoption of commercial The SDA’s work will develop an architecture with that can be upgraded to meet tighter mission technology. It takes commercial solutions and high technology refresh, multiple global sensors at requirements. The OMV is comprised of an rapidly developing prototypes to fit them in a different altitudes, maintain custody of time sensitive integrated avionics unit for both Command and military application solving some great challenges targets, and develop a better deterrence capability; Data Handling, Electrical Power System, and with a commercial off the shelf mindset. This changing the calculus of any adversary. This system Guidance and Navigation Control sensors. It approach allows nontraditional government will require machine learning, hybrid networking, allows for a variety of propulsion systems, such contractors to partner with the DoD by lowering crosslink capabilities and space logistics. as green, monopropellant or bipropellant. Other the barrier to entry and seeking out commercial on-board functions can be tailored to specific companies to do business with the government. NOW is the Time missions to take advantage of lower launch costs through multi-manifesting. Another game changer is the Catalyst Campus I am excited to be a part of the design, in Colorado Springs. This innovative campus is transformation and creation of a new norm for The Moog BRE-440 CPU is a fully radiation challenging typical acquisition approaches to space operations. The technologies embraced hardened processor and is in a true System-On- bring about maximum flexibility, cutting-edge by multiple industries to drive competition and a-Chip design, including floating point unit. The technology and open brainstorming collaboration gain market growth can and need to be applied flexibility OMV allows for multi-manifest missions to a new level of creativity and problem solving. in space acquisitions and operations. with civil, intelligence, and DoD. It is possible to have a single OMV act as a secondary adapter I call the Catalyst Campus an idea incubator; Our predecessors had the right stuff; they to deploy commercial payloads, act as a tug startups and small businesses can interact with understood that failure is an option. It’s important to deploy additional payloads at varied orbital government program offices on a whole new to capitalize on systems like the OMV to change parameters, and remain on-orbit as a hosted level of transparency and candor. The campus how we manage and sustain on-orbit capabilities payload platform for a third customer. has plenty of meeting rooms, collaborative and to use logistics as a foundation for workspaces, an auditorium, and a Space space superiority. Changes in Agencies Operations Control Center where orbiting satellites can be commanded and monitored. Ambitious agencies are motivated to make a The need to go fast and innovate at a quicker difference, go faster and drive change. This cycle than traditional acquisition timelines has In 2018, the National Defense Authorization Act enthusiasm, along with unique contract mechanisms created new agencies, contract mechanisms and established the Space Rapid Capability Office and a fresh approach to source selections will help partnerships. There are consortiums which use (RCO) to push the boundaries of performance the DoD, Commercial Space and the Scientific Other Transaction Authority (OTA), there are new for rapid capability delivery. The mission of Community move faster, evolve and maintain offices which apply commercial capabilities to the SpRCO has three main focuses. They seek dominance in a once-stagnant industry. military applications, there are innovative campuses to develop low-cost, rapid reaction payloads, which invite teams to understand government busses, and launch systems; speed up planning, www.buckcg.com challenges and offer unique solutions, and there are acquisition, and operations; and to rapidly new agencies being formed to solve some of the develop and field space capabilities. toughest space vulnerabilities to protect our nation.

MilsatMagazine — September 2019 23 To tilt the fulcrum toward better decision making, No longer The Improving World of militaries, defense services, HLS and security does a soldier agencies are seeking the best high bandwidth need to Military SOTM communication tools that enable instantaneous rendezvous access to more information and even more so, to with a mobile Boosting critical mission success real-time communications. communication vehicle. No Delivering real-time intelligence data, maps, live longer do By Raz Cohen, Vice President, Products, Get SAT videos, mission information, enemy profiles and warfighters movement in an on-the-move situation requires have to visit a communications capabilities of the highest frontline HQ order. Decisions impacting life and death need tent to obtain to be predicated on as close to full knowledge new maps as possible. or upload mission High speed SOTM improvement not only results or to impacts the military. Various HLS and security view the next Global communications are driven by missions, such as search and rescue operations, mission. high-bandwidth applications needing high disaster recovery and relief, coastal security and data rate connections. On the battlefield other Communications-On-The-Move (COTM) it is no different; however, the delta operations, will also greatly benefit. between civilian life and the limitations and challenges of the military loom large. What are High Bandwidth Communications? High bandwidth is today’s reality — try a day Today, high bandwidth connections are becoming without using your smartphone and its applications essential for providing optimal conditions to boost and see how frustrating such an experience will be critical mission success on the battlefield. High for you. bandwidth data is mandatory. Decisions based on miscommunication or limited access to data made Having data flow with low latency — as by commanders, officers and soldiers can literally close to instantaneous communication as change a person’s life, whether combatant possible — is another real need. In the civilian or civilian. world, this is currently at the LTE as well as 5G stages that provide data speeds between 5 and 12 Mbps and upload speeds between 2 and 5 Mbps. The same is needed for the military’s on- the-move requirements.

As soldiers in the field, vehicles, vessels or airborne platforms are constantly in dynamic mode, they need these capabilities in a secure and rugged instrument in an on-the- move format.

UAV with Get SAT’s Nano SAT-H terminal aboard. Image is courtesy of the company.

24 MilsatMagazine — September 2019 Satellites are the answer for soldiers in the field technological efficiencies, augment mission goals requiring MILCOM COTM. Satellite beams are and enable greater horizons for UAV deployments. fast, reliable and reachable and offer a major Looking at the evolution of UAV technologies, advantage with unparalleled Beyond-Line-Of- especially including Class variations, the dilemma Sight (BLOS) reach. The only answer while in the of length versus size versus capabilities has field to receive from, and transmit to, a satellite always been how to fit more technologies into are technologically advanced, small, lightweight a smaller size, or how to fit more technologies satellite communication SOTM (SATCOM-On- into a standard size. Creating UAVs that stay aloft The-Move) terminals. for longer periods of time creates a delicate tug between fuel, mobility and capabilities. Giving up These terminals ability to attain seamless on- in one area leads to gains in another facet. This the-move communications furthers flexible means matching the payload to the mission has tactical and strategic decision-making processes been a critical consideration. However, this does on constantly changing battlefields, war zones, not need to be the case. disaster areas, behind enemy lines and elsewhere. These terminals enable decision makers in the Nano SAT-H’s mini size provides a small SATCOM field, in front-line command posts as well as BLOS package that literally makes it a micro-comm but rear HQ to see, hear and communicate in real time. with the power of something far larger in size. This means that a full comms link package located With this power in a small package, the need to within the confines of a ‘man-pack’ is usable for a allocate resources to either enhance mission goals far longer period of time over the horizon — plus, or payload capabilities can be eliminated. As the such capabilities are here and now. terminal’s size is only 21 x 23 cm. (8.2 x 9 inches), it is the smallest miniature terminal that is capable This new era of real-time video, audio and data of handling high bandwidth requirements. flow comes via the development of an ultra- portable lightweight, only 3.6 kg., low-profile Today a small Class III tactical UAV, those in which terminal optimized for ‘on-the-move’ applications: the Nano SAT-H are deployed, deliver 4K UHD the Nano SAT-H. This is the first manpack in the video feeds from five different cameras. Only two world, based on SATCOM, that realizes the desire decades ago, video feed was black and white for high data rates. with low definition. Times have changed and UAV Get SAT’s Nano SAT-H antenna. Top, without capabilities have grown exponentially. Forty years ago, battlefield comms for an radome. Below, with radome. individual soldier or small unit was voice only. Images are courtesy of the company. www.getsat.com Today, comms capabilities are quite different. Think of the soldier having a ruggedized Get SAT, the developer of the Nano SAT-H, The Nano SAT-H provides live feeds, live human ‘smartphone’ connected to the Nano SAT-H. is a pioneer in small, lightweight satellite data interfaces (such as email and chat), instant Now, that is progress. This competitive advantage communication terminals. Focusing on micronizing data applications for downloading or uploading changes the field, improving mission success rates. SATCOM antenna technologies, the company maps, enemy profiles and changing mission tasks. targets SOTM applications: in the air; on the Both in the field and at command posts, intel Nano SAT-H terminal provides autonomous ground; and on the seas. information can be relayed for 3D modeling of operation for transmission and reception of high Get SAT’s technologies are based on the buildings, tunnels and other infrastructure, varied bandwidth data rates at 4 Mbps between ground firm’s patented, fully-interlaced, Inter-FLAT panel maps such as heat, Elint, Search and Rescue, forces and headquarters. To meet milspecs, the technology: a single antenna panel that provides population density. Additional data types can be terminal is fully ruggedized to withstand the full transmission and reception. InterFLAT’s dual loaded or changed to reflect new and refreshed harshest blows and atmospheric changes. With capabilities significantly decrease antenna and knowledge and provide updated information in integrated BUC, LNB and ACU within the terminal, thus terminal size, bulk and weight as compared the field and for HQ. the SAT-H terminal offers a single point of contact to traditional antennas utilizing different panels without having to add equipment. for Tx and Rx. With secure, high bandwidth communications With less weight and size, the Nano SAT-H ‘man-pack,’ the field of action changes. The Nano Based on highly miniaturized technologies, that is optimized for mobility and man carried SAT-H quickens the process of providing and together create a small profile unit that fits into portability. Pulled together, its technologies delivering information. a small backpack, the terminal literally replaces increase power efficiency, reduce electrical equipment that previously would have a filled a interference and enhance capabilities. Each small No longer does a soldier need to rendezvous mobile communications truck. step creates a better product that outdistances with a mobile communication vehicle. No longer earlier technologies. do warfighters have to visit a frontline HQ tent The next exciting story behind the creation of the SATCOM terminal miniaturization is heading to obtain new maps or upload mission results Nano SAT-H is its applications for UAVs. Suffice it in the correct direction. GetSAT is fulfilling the or to view the next mission. Now this all comes to say: Size and Weight do matter. vision with small, mobile, rugged and robust in through the soldier’s Nano SAT-H ‘man-pack’ SOTM terminals. The company is empowering unit. Imagine the time and effort saving this The terminal’s 3.6 kg. weight for a full broadband HLS, security and defense agencies to push their provides for the warfighter and the unit. Now they comms package, including an integrated BUC, operations further, faster and smarter. Hand-held can focus on the mission — this is a win-win for all. allows the UAV a longer ride in the air and the SATCOM communicators will be realized far unit’s size enables builders and integrators to sooner than many might believe to be the case. add more systems and technologies within the UAV. Additional time in the air, plus greater

MilsatMagazine — September 2019 25 Powered by Satellite... Making MILCOM Better

A boost for Link 16 military radio The Link 16 evolution

By Alex Miller, Editor, Inside Viasat By Kim Hampson, Marketing Director, Viasat

The recent announcement that Viasat is developing a Low Link 16 is a secure system protocol that allows different Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite for Link 16 military communications military users to share data over the same network. is a perfect illustration of how the company is able to connect core competencies. In this case, Viasat’s expertise in satellite However, like any good thing, everybody wants a piece of the action. technology, tactical data links and network encryption will As the popularity of Link 16 grows to include more platforms (ships, come together in the XVI program to vastly improve the aircraft, vehicles, drones, etc.) and individual users, it will be important ability of warfighters to communicate on the battlefield. to expand Link 16 capabilities to help U.S. and coalition military forces adjust to new mission needs, enhance situational awareness, adapt to For the past five years, Viasat has been working to enhance the new technologies and improve warfighter safety. capabilities of Link 16 — a common and critical communications protocol for the U.S. military. Viasat has put more than 1,000 handheld The U.S. military has expressed strong interest in expanding Link 16 Link 16 radios in service, enabling warfighters on the ground to better capabilities to maintain the tactical advantage needed to succeed across communicate with aircraft for close air support. today’s data-driven, contested battlespace. One solution is Concurrent Multiple Reception (CMR) in which a radio can demodulate and decrypt To make Link 16 even more effective with Viasat’s expansive portfolio of multiple messages from multiple users simultaneously. Link 16 products, the company is looking to expand satellite connectivity for Beyond Line-Of-Sight (BLOS) missions. As Viasat’s main fleet of “Imagine that instead of a single FM or satellite radio station, your car satellites are in high geostationary orbit beyond the reach of traditional radio could pick up three or four stations simultaneously,” said Andy Link 16 terminals, the company’s XVI prototype spacecraft sets the stage Kessler, Vice President and Business Area Director for Viasat’s Next for a potential constellation of LEO military satellites within range of the Generation Tactical Data Links (NGTDL) systems. Link 16 network. One example is with positional data, where CMR enables more frequent, “This is the first-ever Link 16-capable LEO satellite to be built,” said Ken secure updates on the location of friendly and enemy forces. The data from Peterman, President of Viasat’s Government Systems business. “The multiple messages received simultaneously is fused into a common picture. primary goal of the XVI program is to prove the feasibility of Link 16 on a LEO satellite system—which has significant value and potential because “This picture that you are seeing on your tactical situational awareness Link 16 is a widely used system by the U.S. military and our allies.” display is more robust,” Kessler said. “The tracks are getting updated more frequently due to reduced latency so the locations are more precise.” Viasat’s Craig Miller, Viasat’s Vice President and Chief Technology officer for Government Services, described a simple scenario of how the Multi-message capability also allows CMR devices to share data between XVI would work. specific users while still receiving information from the broader network, all in a single timeslot. This is expected to increase the overall network efficiency and capacity because multiple networks can operate inthe

Adding satellite connectivity to the Link 16 network enables BLOS capabilities.

26 MilsatMagazine — September 2019 “Now, a soldier on the ground with a Link 16 radio can communicate with same theater of operation. Seeing the need to enhance communications another person on the ground or with an aircraft they can ‘see’ — within capabilities, the U.S. military recently identified CMR as an emerging a range of a few hundred miles. With XVI, the range is greatly extended, need for Link 16 products. with the satellite connection enabling that warfighter on the ground to see someone or something, say, on the other side of a mountain.” Successful Integration

Dissipating the Fog of War Viasat recently took a proactive approach to develop and implement CMR capabilities to fulfill a need from the U.S. military ahead of future The ability to have BLOS connectivity is a huge advance, but as Miller requirements. In April, Viasat announced it successfully integrated CMR explained, it’s just the beginning of what extending the range of Link advancements into the company’s extensive line of next-generation Link 16 with satellite can accomplish. When Viasat’s global constellation, 16 products. CMR advancements are now available in the latest versions ViaSat-3, is in place in a few years, it will be able to provide internet of Viasat’s AN/PRC-161 Battlefield Awareness and Targeting System – connectivity almost anywhere in the world. If a full constellation is Dismounted (BATS-D) handheld Link 16 radio, as well as its KOR-24A developed, the XVI satellites in LEO could connect to the ViaSat-3 Small Tactical Terminal. One of the key attributes of Viasat’s growing satellites in geostationary orbit (GEO) to link the warfighter on the portfolio of NGTDL products is the forward compatibility that is built-in ground to broadband. from day one.

“It’s a powerful capability,” Miller added. “Linking to broadband Viasat’s proactive approach to its NGTDL product portfolio has already gives you the ability to access a common operational picture. There’s generated significant interest from both U.S. and international customers. an operations center with all of this intel, and that’s sent up over the In fact, Viasat recently announced its Small Tactical Terminal (STT) has satellite network and finished over the Link 16. It tells that warfighter on been fielded by more than 1,400 U.S. and international customers. In the ground about threats or conditions they need to know — if there’s April, the company also announced over 1,000 of its BATS-D radios are a tank behind that bush or a group of adversaries on the other side of a now in use by U.S. military customers. mountain, for example.” Ken Peterman, President of Viasat’s Government Systems business. The interoperability between LEO and GEO satellites is a capability “The flexibility of our architectures allows Viasat to add new NGTDL Miller said Viasat is eager to explore. LEO satellites can only cover a capabilities, like CMR, in near real-time to keep pace with today’s rapidly small portion of the Earth, due to their low orbit, but connect them to a evolving digital battlespace and meet the unique needs of each mission.” constellation of GEO satellites and that limitation vanishes. Meanwhile, the lower orbit enables connection to handheld terminals on the ground. A Real-World Solution

Testing in 2020 CMR strengthens modern military operations: the coordination of multiple land, sea and air platforms over vast distances. Viasat is at work building the first satellite to start testing in 2020. Ultimately, Viasat looks to develop a constellation of Link 16 LEO “This leverages the more robust network infrastructure in a way that satellites that will enable coverage of most of the earth. previously wasn’t possible because of the limitations of communications,” Kessler said and he recalled his military service as a Navy F/A-18 pilot, “These are really cool innovations to extend the range of Link 16,” when “you spent your time looking out your cockpit to see where your Miller said. “And the other important innovation is a modification we’ve wingman was. Now you look down at your situational display and see already made to the satellite payload allowing the Link 16 signal to work where he’s showing up on your moving map.” at much longer distances.” CMR enables more frequent positional updates that enhance flight safety This also enables the XVI system to work with all of the existing Link 16 as well as air operations. That’s also why CMR will be vital for manned- devices already in the field — an important consideration both financially unmanned teaming, where manned platforms operate in conjunction and for getting the system in place more quickly. with autonomous systems. More than ever, human operators will need to be in constant contact with drones and artificial intelligence-based All of it adds up to the potential creation of a new system of systems at all times. communication that Viasat is uniquely positioned to implement. “We are proud to advance the industry in the tactical data link market,” “The XVI award highlights Viasat technology leadership in Link 16 Peterman added. “Innovations like CMR are just one of the ways we’re and space-borne tactical communications,” Peterman added. “Our providing the connectivity needed to significantly enhance mission innovative spacecraft design and development coupled with expertise effectiveness and improve warfighter safety across today’s battlespace. in next-generation tactical data links and cybersecurity places Viasat in a We’re looking forward to making what’s next.” unique position to address the Department of Defense’s urgent need for a fast-to-market, cost-effective, space-based Link 16 solution to maintain a technological edge in contested environments.”

Alex Miller is the is editor of Inside Viasat, the official corporate blog for Viasat Inc.

www.viasat.com/technology/link-16

MilsatMagazine — September 2019 27 In fact, BAE Systems’ radiation-hardened BAE Systems’ Making a Way electronics recently reached an unprecedented space milestone marking 10,000 cumulative years on- organization in the Universe orbit with 100 percent mission success. is focused on providing In addition to developing the processors that have operational powered every NASA Mars rover, the company’s agility to the space products and processing play an integral space security By Ricardo Gonzalez, Director of Space Systems, BAE Systems role in assisting many of the products and services community. most Americans enjoy every day, including satellite TV and radio, broadband service, secure banking, and GPS. BAE Systems support missions such as the Commercial Resupply Service, which provides cargo resupply and waste disposal for the International Space Station. Plus, the firm’s systems are used by U.S. armed forces every single day to help keep our nation safe. Whether it is helping to connect the world through satellite communications, The Space Environment monitoring of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, tracking For years, space assets have played a role in international terrorists and drug traffickers, protecting national security — by providing our supporting international peacekeeping and nation and our allies with strategic indications humanitarian relief operations, enabling and warning, assured communication capabilities, deep space exploration, or assessing the reconnaissance, and precision positioning, impact of natural disasters, the company’s navigation, and timing data. space products have been reliably processing data on the ground and in all However, as more nations leverage the benefits satellite domains for nearly 30 years. Every of space missions, the space domain has become day, BAE Systems’ space products are on increasingly more congested, contested, and the job performing national security, civil, competitive — all while it remains operationally and commercial missions. challenging due to radiation and extreme temperature cycles.

28 MilsatMagazine — September 2019 In this evolving environment, the ability to adapt, RADNET™ 1848-PS, an 18-Port RapidIO Packet offering. RH45 technology is a space-qualified maneuver, defend, and protect assets is essential Switch, and the RADNET 1616-XP Crosspoint, a 45nm integrated circuit technology that is a and requires systems that can detect threats and protocol agnostic SerDes signal circuit switch and great example of innovative electronics that are then quickly do something about them. replicator. These networking devices complement advancing the “art of the possible” for satellite the RAD5545 single board computer, and allow payloads through more advanced computers, Leveraging BAE Systems’ expertise in areas such the user to efficiently manage and route data network components, and ASICs. as radio frequency systems, radiation-hardened through the system. electronics, secure communications, and ground BAE Systems’ space organization is focused mission processing capabilities, the company Ground Processing on providing operational agility to the space has developed a large portfolio of trusted, high- security community. The company’s Analytics reliability, radiation-hardened products designed On the ground processing side, BAE Systems Framework and visualization expertise in Activity to operate successfully in these harsh environments focuses on applying resiliency and analytics know- Based Intelligence and Object Based Production and enable its customers to command, control, how for mission data processing and mission allows simplicity of integration of multi-data types and communicate with spacecraft. control systems. The company’s team is migrating and sources, allowing users to quickly see and techniques it created for the geospatial-intelligence understand things others don’t, giving context In fact, the company’s space single board market to enable multi-intelligence data fusion and to data in ways others can’t, bringing a more computer products, operating on more battle management command and control. complete, integrated picture to anticipate and than 300 satellites, act much like the main assess what is happening. motherboard does in personal computers, Also provided by BAE Systems is leading- providing the intelligent connection between edge software frameworks and applications The BAE Systems’ history of excellence the operator on Earth and the satellite on-orbit. that scale to process mission data of a rapidly in space technology makes this kind of innovation They process and interpret all commands and expanding persistent collection architecture and attractive to customers. A company’s products communications, ultimately converting the enable decision making at the speed of today’s don’t rack up 10,000 cumulative years’ time operator’s intent into action. compressed mission timelines. on-orbit without a perfect performance track record.

The type of computer the company produces can Ground processing continues to be a critical The biggest reward for BAE Systems is the sense be seen in the movie ‘The Martian.’ When Matt component of the overall space landscape and, of achievement that everyone shares when one Damon’s character retrieves the Pathfinder Rover combined with on-board processing capabilities, of the company’s systems starts its journey of and opens the side, a computer can be seen. On BAE Systems makes missions more effective. discovery on a planet nearly 500 million kilometers the actual platform, that’s BAE Systems’ RAD6000® These products increase the ability for on-orbit, away, or provides a critical capability supporting computer. While Hollywood took a few liberties, real-time interaction and decision making. national security. the likeness is extremely close to the real device. Sensors on the platform are collecting a lot more www.baesystems.com Between the RAD6000 and the follow-on data and, at times, the satellite may have to take RAD750® computer, BAE Systems has provided immediate action. Some of that data has to be Ricardo Gonzalez is the director of the the space industry’s general-purpose computing processed at the source instead of coming back Space Systems product line within the workhorses and have also developed the next to the ground. Command, Control, Communications, generation of processing, the RAD5545™ Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance computer, which is built using RH45® technology, The company’s products do more of that and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) Systems the most advanced space-qualified semiconductor data processing, sending both the processed business area of BAE Systems technology available today. information and the raw data back to the ground. Ricardo previously served as The RAD5545 computer is ideal for that mission engineering director for Space Systems, operating The RAD5545 computer delivers exponential as it provides ten times the performance of across five different geographical locations. He improvements in size, speed, and power- prior-generation processors for the missions that joined the company in 1997 and has served in a efficiency over its proven predecessors in the demand higher levels of processing. wide variety of leadership roles in engineering, unforgiving space environment. Also offered by program management, and new business capture. the company is a suite of radiation-hardened Mission Payloads He received a bachelor’s degree with honors Serial RapidIO® network products, including the in electrical engineering from the University of BAE Systems is also a leading mission Puerto Rico and a master’s degree with honors payload provider in the airborne market in electrical engineering from The Catholic and is strategically migrating airborne University of America. platform protection technologies to He is a graduate of the Armed Forces enable space protection and resiliency. Communications and Electronics Association These transformational mission payloads Leadership Forum and is also a graduate of assure access to challenging targets and BAE Systems’ Leadership Enhancement and provide rapid delivery of mission-critical Accelerated Development program. collection solutions for military and civil Prior to joining BAE Systems, he held a project customers. leadership position managing an Advanced Technology Demonstration Program at the Night Satellite payloads are progressing in Vision Laboratories in Fort Belvoir, Virginia. the more heavily congested, contested Ricardo serves on the George Mason University space environment and BAE Systems is ECE Department Advisory Board. He also co- leveraging increased, on-board processing chaired BAE Systems’ 2012 Diversity & Inclusion performance with advanced capabilities Symposium and was a member of the BAE such as the firm’s RH45® technology Systems, Inc. D&I Advisory Council to the CEO. BAE Systems single board computer. MilsatMagazine — September 2019 29 Acknowledging this serious issue, many First Lack of Interoperability countries have taken steps to upgrade their responders, radio systems, transitioning from traditional homeland Inhibits Mission-Criticial digital mobile radio (DMR) and land mobile radio security (LMR) to Long Term Evolution (LTE) based radio agencies Comms Across Agencies systems. This has brought huge advantages to and military first responders and homeland security agencies, personnel thanks to the addition of network capacity and are subject By Henrik Nørrelykke, Vice President, Land Mobile, Cobham SATCOM speed to mobile device users. However, 4G is to some of restricted in its coverage to mainly urban areas, the most much like we are all used to when using 4G on our daunting mobile phones. This is a huge paradox anomaly scenarios in for first responders and homeland security the extreme agencies, which must provide vital support in any regions on location, no matter how remote, at any time. Earth.

Despite these limitations, many countries have During the most serious of emergency put considerable investment into LTE Mission- situations, it’s long been acknowledged critical-push-to-talk (MCPTT) systems. In the that two-way communications between U.S. this technology underpins the country’s state (or local), and federal (or national) FirstNet system, the new emergency agencies can save more lives. network designed “to develop, build and operate a nationwide broadband network As an example scenario, a hurricane situation in that equips first responders to save lives Dade County, Florida, U.S. will require support and protect U.S. communities.” from different types of first responders; fire, police and ambulance services that are under state FirstNet has been widely lauded and jurisdiction. However, when a disaster escalates, is commendable in terms of driving they do not always have the resources to handle interoperability and encouraging the use the situation alone and are supported by of MCPTT systems. However, it will fall nearby state agencies as well as the Federal short of its mission to deliver nationwide Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). coverage unless additional provisions can be made to address “white Typically, until recently, the exchange spots” in remote areas which have of information ‘on the ground’ between little or no LTE coverage. these agencies collectively would have been siloed and quite limited, resulting in operations being far more strained and uncoordinated. This becomes a possible factor in adding numbers to lives and property losses.

30 MilsatMagazine — September 2019 This issue is universal and is being experienced by A further issue that early pioneers of interagency Military Applications other LTE MCPTT first mover programs. If other communications were not able to address was countries also decide to invest in new LTE MCPTT agility, the need for a system that first responders From a military perspective, the technology systems, then their first responders operating in and other agencies could turn to in all scenarios, available today would enable military personnel to far-flung locations will experience similar issues. both routine and exceptional. use safe and secure interoperable communication Areas including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, over multiple networks at the same time. Such a parts of Europe and the Middle East with large Fortunately, this issue has now been addressed system would use whichever network is available rural and remote communities are likely to be through a new solution that offers seamless and and deliver the necessary information back to particularly exposed. continuous connectivity between DMR, LMR, LTE users, giving them the experience of a singular and MCPTT systems. It works by harnessing L-band network. There are no geographical boundaries Returning to the Florida hurricane example, satellite technology to provide uninterrupted to the technology, which means that international FirstNet would only be available to those connectivity regardless of geographical location. communications can be facilitated with ease, even communicating via LTE. And, even in areas where In addition, it operates seamlessly with LTE in the remotest areas. LTE is available, challenges remain since every MCPTT, LMR or DMR, consistently ensuring that agency must be equipped with LTE enabled the public service purse is getting the most cost Indeed, applying a combined L-band satellite radios in order for interoperability to make sense. value for its connectivity investment. and LTE communications systems to MCPTT could at last provide an answer to the ‘swing’ For users lacking LTE enabled equipment, radio Applying a combined L-band satellite and LTE in military spending with regards to proprietary systems have to be set up before individuals communications systems to MCPTT also delivers systems versus COTS (Commercial-Off-The-Shelf) can communicate. This means, at best, that a continuous interface between the user’s data systems that offer a less expensive off the shelf radios have to be re-programmed and, at worse, device (computer, tablet or mobile data terminal) application. As the military sector is faced with the that communication is not possible between back to the central IT systems. dual challenge of cutting costs, while increasing incompatible systems. This problem is particularly standards, L-band satellite systems accessed via acute between first responders from different First responders and homeland security agencies network agnostic PTT solutions systems could locations, who may attend the scene equipped can access this technology by integrating their provide a cost system with many of the benefits of with radio systems that do not function outside existing radio systems with satellite push-to-talk a proprietary system. their usual ‘patch’. (PTT) solutions, such as Cobham’s PRISM PTT+. The combination of radio, LTE and satellite Enabling Critical Decision Making First Movers in provides users with Beyond Line-of-Sight (BLOS) Interagency Communications voice and data communication that systematically First responders, homeland security agencies and routes communications between the most reliable military personnel are subject to some of the most Have any solutions to these challenges been terrestrial (2G/3G/LTE) and satellite (L-band) daunting scenarios in the extreme regions on developed and tested to date? The answer is networks. This network’s agnostic, user-friendly Earth. While they are trained and well prepared yes. In fact, in the U.S. and Canada, organizations solution provides a failsafe solution that enables to work in such conditions, lack of consistent have been enjoying interagency communications users to make mission critical and often life-saving communications severely restricts the ability of all for more than a decade and ways before FirstNet. voice calls, as well as sending and receiving these agencies to act as swiftly and efficiently as they important data, in all conditions. could with improved Interoperable communication. Satellite based push-to-talk was introduced 15 years ago, offering cross agency communications Since LMR/DMR as well as mobile data terminals At Cobham SATCOM, the firm’s vision is to enable between local and national already found in emergency vehicles are brought a scenario where all providers of vital services can agencies. Agencies were into the IP world by means of sophisticated voice communicate seamlessly, talking and listening offered the possibility to handling algorithms, interagency communications as much as they want, while working in the most interconnect between them is handled exactly as easily as communication remote and inaccessible areas. using SMART (Satellite between two vehicles in a talk group — all Mutual Aid Radio Talkgroup managed centrally. As all traffic is handled as This is now possible with PRISM PTT whether Program). While a strong IP data, integrity is insured by applying AES- they are connected to FirstNet, another LTE concept, the system 256 encryption to all voice and data streams, MCPTT system or any alternative radio system. became an “island” thus ensuring the highest possible level of data Furthermore, the provision of interagency separated from the LMR/ protection operationally when aiming to integrate communications offers a further ‘step up,’ DMR networks and, as a very disparate communications platforms. enabling critical decision-making across all result, did not find its way as relevant agencies in the most challenging a means of communication of circumstances. that is used daily. www.cobham.com

Henrik Nørrelykke is the Vice President, Land Mobile, with Cobham SATCOM.

Cobham SATCOM’s EXPLORER Mobile Gateway (Push-To-Talk Unit). MilsatMagazine — September 2019 31 RF Components are the Keys...

...for good military satellite applications

By Dr. Esen Bayer, Managing Director, Atlantic Microwave

There is no denying the military’s Satellite communications are also especially The selection dependence on satellite applications. crucial for maintaining communication links with of the most Satellite is relied upon for all-important operatives in the field, often in remote areas suitable RF radar operations, from anti-missile and where other links are simply not available. In those products air-defense systems to enabling land and instances, satellites literally provide a lifeline. requires ocean surveillance. a good However, this functionality doesn’t come without understanding challenges. RF components are often overlooked of their as simply something that need to be purchased; specifications however, getting it right can be key to ensuring and intended resilience throughout the satellite networks. applications.

Challenges

Military satellite operations, as well as experiencing the challenges associated with any satellite network, have their own unique challenges. Here are some of the most significant difficulties for the military today:

Cyber Attacks As the world becomes more connected, cyber- attacks are becoming a serious threat to pretty much everyone, from huge companies to the man on the street. The military is a significant target for potential cyber criminals in view of its importance to our protection. While communication is key, the security and safety of our people is paramount.

Remote Operations Military operations often occur in remote locations and may require substantial hardware to be redeployed in a short periods of time. For effective operations, the hardware needs to be portable, compact and resilient and also needs to be quick to setup and operate as well as easily implemented into an existing system. Atlantic Microwave’s drone payload satellite simulator. 32 MilsatMagazine — September 2019 Extremes of Weather with proven track records are selected as Cost versus Specifications Military operations require global access the equipment suppliers. While the industry is under pressure to and quick deployment across the globe. The expected life cycle of such deliver products to a tight time scale and In many locations, there can be extremes equipment is typically 10 years or more. budget, this needs to be done without of temperature and weather that require This requires programs where product compromise to the technical specifications products that are designed to operate cycles and the subsequent replacements and reliability. The desired solution across such extreme conditions without are well planned. When it comes to should involve an interactive exchange of performance degradation. In some cases, end of life it is vital that the services ideas between the supplier and end-user operational temperatures span from -20°C are maintained, and new products are to deliver to the requirements. to +65°C or beyond. All products need backward compatible. These schemes to pass well controlled test regimes to are required to deliver desired solutions Compact ensure resilience across harsh operational quickly and to maintain COTS provisions. The designs need to be compact to or storage conditions. facilitate mobility and ease of deployment. The Role of RF Components Miniaturized devices, multilayer PCB boards, Interference effective thermal dissipation and smart HMI Interference is a challenge for the RF components are fundamental in determining (Human Machine Interface) all enable light entire satellite industry. Interference the performance and resilience of any satellite weight and reliable product solutions. free operation is fundamental for link. For this reason, the specifications and the functioning of any satellite link. performance parameters need to be clearly Life cycle This requires well planned frequency defined. In doing so, RF system analysis Products developed for high reliability allocation, antenna pointing and expertise and link budgets are essential tools which applications require a well-planned life in the field of communications. determine the performance of the entire satellite cycle and obsolescence management. For effective and compliant performance, communication network. The industry requires support beyond RF components with good spectral purity the nominal life cycle of 10 years. The are required. In addition to performance, there are several key new products need to be backwards Interference of any kind can cause factors to be considered as outlined below: compatible and introduce enhancements degradation of signal or even downtime. over their preceding products at the In many military situations, that is simply Reliability same time as producing new and superior not an option and, therefore, military RF components need to be extremely products to ensure advancements without operators need to be able to mitigate resilient for military applications. Reliability compromising on the products’ longevity. interference before the crucial service is is critical in ensuring no downtime and negatively impacted. RF Products should therefore it is important that the products Testing provide very low spurii characteristics and perform to their specifications without In applications where resilience and filters to limit or restrict interference. any deviation. reliability are critical, extensive testing is Additionally, products designed for extremely important. This should apply to COTS high reliability applications need to pass relatively simple products such as coaxial In an attempt to reduce costs and strict requirements complying to EMC cables and cable assemblies, as well increase speed of delivery, many defense (Electromagnetic Compatibility), vibration as to the more sophisticated products companies are looking for Commercial- and extreme operational and non- such as frequency synthesizers, test loop Off-The-Shelf (COTS) products. operational environmental conditions. translators and satellite simulators. It is important for all mission critical These are captured by internationally applications that reputable companies recognized military standards. Selecting RF Components

The selection of the most suitable RF products requires a good understanding of their specifications and intended applications. Atlantic Microwave’s range of SATCOM products. Selecting a supplier that offers a broad range of RF components, modules and equipment, as well as custom solutions, will save investment in time and money.

www.atlanticmicrowave.com

Esen Bayar has 30 years of experience in satellite communication systems. He joined ETL Systems in 2003 and has been pivotal in transforming the firm into a world leading RF company. Esen is now actively engaged with Atlantic Microwave following it’s acquisition by ETL. Prior to ETL, he worked for BAE Systems, Matra Marconi Space Systems (now Airbus), Com Dev and Radiant Networks.

MilsatMagazine — September 2019 33 In order to maintain an advantage in such fluid, For SOF MANTA+: Dynamic Satellite operational theaters, SOF users must have flat- users, cellular panel access to low-profile Communications-On- capabilities COTM is a Reality The-Move (COTM) capabilities. in the field present From the Ground Up threats and opportunities As global connectivity demand grows, mobile and the ideal By Lyuda Promyshlyayeva, Director of Marketing, Lepton Global Solutions operators are upgrading and expanding scenario is infrastructure to match user needs. This expansion to be able to includes extending networks to more rural areas harness or and improving failover and backhaul frameworks. avoid cellular networks as At the same time, the “new space” industry, needed. financed by technology-focused investors and led by major players in the tech arena such as SpaceX, Facebook and Alphabet, is focused on expanding “Always-connected” could certainly be broadband connectivity around the world. New the motto of this generation. Whether towers and satellite constellations are being on a plane, in a car, at the office, hurriedly designed and built and they are frequently or on vacation, Internet access for in competition with each other for tomorrow’s users. digital devices is no longer a wish, but an expectation. This investment-heavy economic environment presents significant opportunity for improving Cellular connectivity has moved forward quickly, military connectivity options, particularly for with new technologies emerging every two to vehicle-based COTM offerings. three years. Remember 3G? Now 5G is a new reality that is adopted in major cellular markets Satellite-Based COTM Antennas and Gigabit connections are leaving current broadband speeds in the dust. Unless a user is willing to install a maritime antenna on the roof of their vehicle, BGAN terminals have With every step, hand-held devices have long been the only viable, mobile, satellite-based, become more robust, on-the-move access more COTM solution. essential and data transfers more extensive. User dependency on continuous connectivity is at A limited number of BGAN hardware options its peak. can be used for true COTM connectivity with a maximum achievable (and never guaranteed) These same phenomena apply to soldiers, and speed of less than 500 Kbps., and service none more so than the Special Operations Forces comes at eye-popping prices. For anyone trying (SOF) community. The wars they fight today are to maintain a low profile, a BGAN terminal, decidedly “fourth generation”: the enemies universally recognizable as an antenna, is a are un-uniformed, networked, non-state actors poor option. that are highly mobile, highly connected and technologically savvy. These American adversaries Cellular antennas are certainly viable where are not operating from behind fortifications and mobile coverage exists. In the age of connected, operate in urban and rural environments. self-driving cars, and those that run on

34 MilsatMagazine — September 2019 MANTA+ and PIM interior control panel.

software requiring a remote connection to the of fixed and quick deploy terminals operating on Kymeta to develop the MANTA®+, the first flat- manufacturer, satellite integration is a must. all major satellite networks. panel COTM VSAT system with a fully integrated 3G/4G/LTE cellular capability. The resulting For SOF users, cellular capabilities in the field The PIM provides the modem, baseband switching, terminal is a discreet, plug-and-play unit that present threats and opportunities and the ideal and assisted pointing and setup functions, and provides seamless network switching between scenario is to be able to harness or avoid cellular presents users with a quick and simple acquisition cellular and satellite. The complete terminal comes networks as needed. process. Paradigm took the Kymeta antenna and in one ruggedized case, contains no moving parts, turned it into the MANTA®: a fully integrated, flat- supports 10+ modem technologies, and can be Satellite connectivity provides a much more secure, panel system inclusive of all electronics, housing, ordered with BUCs from 8 to 40 Watts. if more limited, alternative. The flat panel revolution and easy-to- use operator interfaces. was started more than a decade ago, with Boeing In June, the initial shipment of MANTA+ terminals leading the way. Since then, a few other players The PIM uses advanced pointing technology to was delivered to the SOF community and they have joined the race to blend efficiency with search and lock onto satellites faster and with higher have already been deployed for use overseas. affordability, and Kymeta is now at the forefront of precision than other solutions. When compared with In its first iteration, the MANTA+ solution such movement. These companies have attracted Kymeta’s basic antenna unit with non-integrated revolutionizes comms-on-the-move capabilities serious investment as the technology of tomorrow, electronics, the MANTA was able to acquire for its SOF users by harnessing the best of both with plans to remake entire industries. satellites at a faster rate and significantly improve worlds in mobile connectivity. re-acquisition times after encountering blockage. For example, using metamaterials, the Kymeta With the integrated Cradlepoint router, a local SIM flat-panel antenna can replace a typical L-band The MANTA has since been successfully fielded in card is all that is required for cellular capabilities offering with higher-throughput, lower-profile Ku- the SOF community and has heralded a powerful anywhere in the world. Combined with a satellite band options, heralding a major step forward in new communications capability to operators network, the PIM can instantly support whichever the connected car movement. downrange. The same technology could be critical connectivity platform the user needs. Users interface in myriad non-military applications, including with the PIM’s simple GUI inside their vehicle, After producing a working VSAT flat-panel antenna, disaster response and public safety. ensuring discreet operations and total security. Kymeta set out to develop their product into a fully- integrated, satellite communications(SATCOM) The Next Iteration As a highly customizable product designed to terminal. The Seattle-based company teamed meet end-users’ nuanced requirements, the with Paradigm Communications Ltd., a U.K. In late 2018, during a demonstration with a SOF design and optionality are likely to grow; and manufacturer and integrator of VSAT terminals user at Ft. Bragg, Lepton Global’s Rob Weitendorf as Kymeta’s antenna technology improves, the with their trademark integration component, the asked what else the SOF community needed from number of High Throughput Satellite (HTS) Paradigm Interface Module, or PIM®. a COTM VSAT perspective, now that MANTAs networks increase and cellular coverage expands, were in use. This soldier’s suggestion was to add the MANTA+ will act as a force multiplier for the The PIM terminal controller was designed to an integrated cellular capability to the MANTA U.S. military community. provide a common terminal interface for a range terminal, a natural marriage of today’s diverse and growing telecommunications See MANTA+ at Lepton Global’s exhibitor solutions. While some users table 10 at the Satellite Innovation Symposium, had experimented with October 8 to 10. rudimentary plug-in cellular connections, his request was leptonglobal.com for a sophisticated terminal system that could offer users MANTA+ brochure download complete autonomy over the backhaul method from Ms. Promyshlyayeva has experience in a ruggedized, single user B2B and B2G business environments. interface with smart routing and a She previously worked for VPN capability. manufacturing and distribution companies and joined Lepton Border Patrol Vehicle outfitted with a Kymeta Terminal In response, Lepton Global Global in early 2016. Photo is courtesy of Kymeta. worked with Paradigm and

MilsatMagazine — September 2019 35 In fact, the O3b mPOWER capabilities provide When The Government an advantage for a number of use cases across compared to practically every domain of operation — including traditional Satellite Report (GSR) land, sea and air. satellite constellations SES & O3b mPOWER Within the air domain, there are multiple, at disparate platforms of operation that all have Geostationary unique requirements. Each of these three Orbit (GEO), By Ryan Schradin, Executive Editor, Government Satellite Report platforms — unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), just the physical transport aircraft and manned aircraft — can proximity benefit from the advanced capabilities that will be of a MEO enabled by O3b mPOWER. constellation to Earth reduces To learn more about the the overall requirements of these latency. platforms and how O3b In 2021 SES will be launching its next- mPOWER could benefit generation MEO (Medium Earth Orbit) them each, individually, satellite system called O3b mPOWER – a GSR sat down with two powerful, flexible, and scalable satellite- members of the SES based system capable of delivering Government Solutions multiple terabits of throughput with team, Eric Gunzelman extremely low latency. O3b mPOWER (Project Manager at SES comprises advanced communication Government Solutions) satellites, innovative ground infrastructure and Mike Blefko (Vice and intelligent software to deliver President of Business exceptionally high bandwidth connectivity Development, SES to nearly 80 percent of the Earth’s surface. Eric Gunzelman, Government Solutions). top, and Mike The conversation began O3b mPOWER will complement the existing Blefko, bottom. with one of the military’s multi-orbit fleet of Medium most recent and relied Earth Orbit (MEO) and upon platforms — UAVs. Here is what they had Geostationary Earth to say... Orbit (GEO) satellites that SES already Government Satellite Report (GSR) operates. It will give What process is currently in the U.S. Department place for getting ISR data from of Defense UAVs? Can the data be collected customers a new and delivered in real-time? tool in enabling digital and network- connected platforms.

36 MilsatMagazine — September 2019 Artistic rendition of the SES O3b constellation. Image is courtesy of the company.

Eric Gunzelman (EG) EG GSR There are currently multiple methods for uploading That’s something that I think is important to realize: Aside from the larger uplink capacity, data from a UAV that range in sophistication and sophisticated ISR sensors have exponentially what else about O3b mPOWER makes it speed. There are sophisticated, point-to-point increased the amount of data that needs to be a good solution for UAVs? links via air-to-ground or air-to-satellite-to-ground. offloaded from the UAV. There are also less sophisticated methods that When you combine the data generated from EG involve landing the plane in order to access and airframe sensors and the data generated by O3b mPOWER is a Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) subsequently ship a hard drive. ISR sensors, it’s easy to see why the amount of constellation. When compared to traditional bandwidth needed to and from the aircraft has satellite constellations at Geostationary Orbit Mike Blefko (MB) jumped significantly. (GEO), just the physical proximity of a MEO When it comes to ISR data, timely delivery is of In fact, I recently read an Avascent industry constellation to Earth reduces the overall latency. the utmost importance. The more recent the briefing that showed the total number of UAVs This means that large file transfers and intelligence information is, the more accurate it and the total data rate from those UAVs will both voice communications will experience less is, and the better it is for situational awareness, double between 2015 and 2025. That’s going to than 150 milliseconds of latency roundtrip. mission planning and mission command. Ideally, require a lot more bandwidth. Low latency coupled with high throughput and decision makers would get access to quality ISR O3b mPOWER’s ability to dynamically allocate data — such as HD video — in real-time so that it GSR bandwidth and power in near-real-time while is up-to-date and reliable. How are the connectivity requirements of flying a mission enables mission planners to That’s why the process that Eric described of UAVs different from other aircraft? decide to use all of the sensors, part of the landing a UAV and physically shipping a hard payload or reconfigure sensors in-flight, as drive is not ideal —– since the data — much of MB dictated by the mission requirements. which is comprised of multiple large files — needs While many aircraft are strictly being pushed The result is a higher level of flexibility to to be accessed in real-time. information, UAVs are typically collecting data adapt to the changing mission requirements locally and then sending it via the uplink path as well as faster transmission of voice, video, GSR back to the base. They need just as much uplink including UHD, and data packets that do not What types of sensors are found on ISR capacity as they need downlink capacity. need to be compressed. UAVs? How much data do they produce? This is why O3b mPOWER is such an effective How has this changed in recent history? solution for UAVs, specifically. Unlike other GSR satellite networks, O3b mPOWER provides a How does O3b mPOWER compare MB significant upload path to address these types with the original O3b constellation? There are numerous sensors on UAV platforms. of applications. What additional benefits will O3b The number of sensors has increased over the mPOWER deliver? years as electronics have miniaturized. These sensors can include visual, infrared, optical and other airframe state-of-health sensors.

MilsatMagazine — September 2019 37 MB Airlift aircraft require en route communications Also, O3b mPOWER offers a significant upload With O3b mPOWER, we scale the proven concept and planning. Aerial refueling aircraft require path. This means that it’s well-suited to address of MEO, that we are currently delivering to our communications relay. Air mobility support, the upload and download requirements of military customers. Both the O3b mPOWER and the including airplanes that provide aeromedical communications and applications. current O3b satellites are stationed at MEO, so evacuation services, benefit from telemedicine and the latency is the same. telehealth implementations for en route surgery. For additional information about O3b mPOWER However, the wider bandwidth and There are numerous reasons why widebody and the benefits that it can deliver to the military, channelization on O3b mPOWER allows up to aircraft need high bandwidth connectivity. select this direct infolink. 2500 MHz of bandwidth to be delivered – that’s Then there are the VIP Special Air Missions about ten times more data for the same sized (VIPSAM), which involve transporting senior ses-gs.com/govsat/# terminal when compared to the original O3b government officials. These individuals have MEO satellites. important jobs and would benefit greatly from This article first appeared at SES-GS GovSat and The difference is the amount of bandwidth having the same access to communications and is republished with their permission. available and the flexibility. As the Avascent applications en route as they do in their offices. industry briefing showed, the number of UAVs is This way, they’re capable of informed decision- Ryan Schradin is the Executive Editor going to double by 2025. The number of sensors making and mission planning even if they’re of GovSat Report. A communications on each UAV is going to double over that same in transit. expert and journalist with over a period of time. decade of experience, Ryan has edited The bandwidth requirements to get that GSR and contributed to multiple popular actionable data back to decision makers in Why is O3b mPOWER a good solution for online trade publications focused real-time are going to increase exponentially. widebody aircraft? on government technology, O3b mPOWER will be capable of meeting and satellite, unified communications exceeding those bandwidth requirements. MB and network infrastructure. Satellite constellations at MEO inherently offer His work includes editing and writing for the GSR lower latency than GEO satellites. It basically GovSat Report, The Modern Network, Public What type of connectivity is available on comes down to distance. GEO is further away Sector View, and Cloud Sprawl. His work for manned military transports and refueling than MEO by a factor of four, or in other terms, the GovSat Report includes editing content, planes today? MEO communicates in a quarter of the time that establishing editorial direction, contributing it takes to get data through GEO. articles about satellite news and trends, and MB Being comprised of next-generation MEO conducting both written and podcast interviews. There is connectivity available on today’s satellites, the terabit-scale O3b mPOWER system Ryan also contributes to the publication’s industry manned military transports and refueling tankers, will offer extremely fast, low-latency connections event and conference coverage, providing predominantly supplied by wideband GEO for widebody aircraft, regardless of their in-depth reporting from leading satellite shows. satellite services. However, with MEO, adding communications requirements. inherently higher throughputs and lower latency, O3b mPOWER also offers incredible the military can add additional functionality and bandwidth and high throughputs, which means capability in transport aircraft. that transportation and refueling aircraft will essentially have fiber-like connectivity. EG Finally, the low latency nature of O3b mPOWER In terms of applications, defense and security enables more real-time based processes, such as users are primarily focused on enabling access to cloud-based services. This can help to relieve mission-critical services and applications enabling downrange operators of maintaining their own information sharing and decision-making. This forward deployed network and make other cloud requires higher bandwidth coming off the aircraft, services accessible to users. and not just data to the aircraft. EG GSR In addition to that unprecedented high throughput You’ve mentioned that these applications and low latency, O3b mPOWER uniquely offers need to both send and receive data, but the customer flexibility and adaptability. what are they, specifically? What types Customers can create their own federated of use cases and applications could secure networks within this O3b mPOWER there be for high-bandwidth satellite network; they can route their beams from one connectivity on military transports and terminal to another or to their own gateway refueling planes? and shape their beams to put energy just where they want it; they can respond to contingencies EG more rapidly than ever before and do all of this All modern widebody military aircraft provide with inherent jamming resistance thanks to the capabilities that go beyond their standard design of the narrow beams, the moving nature mission sets — such as long-haul transport or of MEO satellites, frequency diversity and refueling missions. polarization diversity.

38 MilsatMagazine — September 2019

Launching the Next Chapter of Innovation...

Government mission support through commercial partnerships

By Rebecca Cowen-Hirsch, Senior Vice President, Government Strategy and Policy, Inmarsat Government, Inc.

In recent years, the U.S. Government and acquisition strategy” that includes both To take (USG) has taken a number of steps and government and commercial space systems. part in this implemented strategies that promise exciting era to redefine how it acquires satellite General Hyten’s statement reveals how DoD of innovation communications (SATCOM), with the goal leaders are increasingly recognizing that they and help of developing an “integrated SATCOM must have open access to nothing less than the U.S. architecture of the future” driven by a “fully stocked toolshed” — comprised of a government a partnership with the commercial combination of legacy, purpose-built platforms forge a path SATCOM sector. and primarily more modern, commercially- to integrated developed options — to readily obtain mission- SATCOM / Change We Must critical mobile and highly-available wideband. MILSATCOM Without such a toolshed — an essential, fully architectures The promise of a change is reflected in General integrated architecture with a heterogeneous of the future John Hyten, Commander, United States Strategic network — modern capabilities and unquestioned is highly Command’s statement before the Senate resiliency will remain out-of-reach. encouraging Committee on Armed Services: “Future SATCOM — even systems remain key to our continued strategic Provisioning inspiring. posture in space. We must design and fund replacement systems and remain on schedule As a trusted, commercial owner-operator for smooth transition of operations to these new delivering robust and secure SATCOM services systems. We must expand international SATCOM worldwide, Inmarsat provides flexible and partnerships, strengthen our industrial base scalable alternatives for the USG and Allies, response to acquisition challenges, and integrate complementing military SATCOM (MILSATCOM) commercial opportunities to evolve future in both narrowband and wideband. satellite payloads toward commercial solutions wherever possible.” For 40 years, Inmarsat has been a major driving force behind technological innovation in mobile The commercial SATCOM industry has satellite communications. The company has demonstrated time and again that we understand sustained its leadership through substantial government customers’ requirements and — investments in a powerful network of technology in responding to those requirements — have and value-added manufacturing and wholesale invested heavily into enhancing mobility, partners. Users leverage Inmarsat’s our Ka- flexibility, redundancy, throughput, resiliency and and L-band services for core functions, while protection for satellite systems. seamlessly integrating with MILSATCOM to address any remaining gaps to ensure optimal Officials from the Department of Defense (DoD) redundancy, diversity, protection, scalability and the House Appropriations Subcommittee on and global portability: the ultimate resilience Defense have said that they are seeking a better approach. This frees up government members long-term plan to buy commercial SATCOM from administering disparate networks, allowing (COMSATCOM) via a more seamless, integrated them to focus on mission-critical operations. network structure and that significant changes in SATCOM procurement are required to make Inmarsat continues to invest in L- and Ka-band this happen. enhanced capabilities to include satellites, ground segment, terminals and services to support This is supported by the Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 users’ unique needs anywhere around the globe, budget, where Congress appropriated $49.5 while delivering greater value to government million in Research, Development, Test and customers. In example, Inmarsat recently Evaluation (RDT&E) funding to create a new announced the expansion of Global Xpress, “program of record for commercial satellite delivering greater, seamless capacity in regions communications” within the U.S. Air Force (USAF). with the highest demand. These next-generation The program is intended to pursue a “wideband satellites and payloads will bring ground-breaking and narrowband communications architecture advancements in support of ever-increasing

40 MilsatMagazine — September 2019 worldwide demand for government mobile These payloads will be placed into Highly Elliptical payload will add further depth to Global Xpress connectivity with unprecedented flexibility, Orbit (HEO), ensuring continuous coverage coverage, delivering greater capacity in regions scalability and cost efficiency. above 65º North while directing capacity in real- with the highest demand. time to the areas of highest demand. Importantly Evolutionary these payloads will also provide mil-Ka capability Strengthened SATCOM through service beams and high-capacity Importantly, the next evolution of Global Xpress steerable beams, complementing military To take part in this exciting era of innovation will also provide military Ka-band capacity, satellite resources. and help the U.S. government forge a path complementing U.S. and NATO Allied military to integrated SATCOM / MILSATCOM satellite resources cost effectively anywhere around The HEO satellites will fully integrate with the architectures of the future is highly encouraging the globe. The initiatives seamlessly integrate Global Xpress GEO network to deliver a single, — even inspiring. increased diversity, interoperability and resilience seamless service. They will be fully compatible to government architectures without additional with current and future Global Xpress terminals, Inmarsat is investing heavily into improving infrastructure investment from end users. so that existing and new Global Xpress SATCOM mobility, flexibility, redundancy, customers can benefit from the further extension throughput, resilience and protection. The The company’s next generation of Global Xpress of the network. company is incorporating new and enhanced — of which three new satellites (GX7, 8 and 9) capabilities into the baseline DoD architecture, will launch from 2023 — will deliver dynamically- In addition to the evolution in Ka-band, ensuring consistent, robust advancements and formed beams that enable agile and precise government users continue to have access to technology upgrades. allocation of ultra high-power capacity over innovative capabilities in L-band as complementary high-demand areas and allow for superior resources to MILSATCOM, offering services that The vision for the future is clear. With a continuing, interference resistance. are designed for every aspect of Communications- successful partnership between government and On-The-Move (COTM) missions — from industry, this vision of full cooperation will be This innovative, software-defined, global Machine-to-Machine (M2M) to high-throughput achieved and become even more of a reality. architecture — with geostationary orbit (GEO) data and video distribution for highly mobile satellites augmented by two recently announced platforms — via Inmarsat’s Wideband Streaming www.inmarsat.com dedicated payloads covering arctic coverage L-Band (WiSL), L-band Tactical Satellite (L-TAC), —– will have flexible payloads that can be Broadband Global Area Network (BGAN) High Ms. Cowen-Hirsch is responsible for relocated when and where required across the Data Rate (HDR), SwiftBroadband-Safety (SB-S) establishing Inmarsat’s strategic geostationary arc and connect to any Inmarsat and other services. direction and policy with respect to U.S. software-defined ground network node. The government. She also leads Inmarsat’s satellites will bring higher throughput speeds and Users will also benefit from the continuation of government outreach and advocacy flexible and dynamic capacity scaling based on the firm’s award-winning L-band services via the program shaping its government focused user-specific resource demands. sixth-generation (Inmarsat-6) fleet, scheduled for capabilities and strategy. Ms. Cowen- launch in 2020. The Inmarsat-6 fleet is a unique Hirsch brings more than 25 years of Inmarsat will deliver the world’s first and only dual band payload covering L- and Ka-band defense, aerospace and executive global mobile wideband services to the Arctic services and will support a new generation of leadership experience to Inmarsat. region via two new satellite payloads hosted on capabilities for the 5G era, from advanced global board Space Norway satellites, scheduled to safety services and low-cost mobile services to launch in 2022. high-definition streaming. The advanced Ka-band

MilsatMagazine — September 2019 41 Our sun is comprised of plasma. Stars are plasma. By mounting Users Are Being Sought... The tails of comets are plasma. hardware, such as probes “It’s a dynamic medium,” explained Bill Amatucci, or miniature physicist and head of the U.S. Naval Research satellites, on a for the NRL Plasma Physics Division’s Space Chamber Laboratory’s (NRL) Charged Particle Physics 3D-positioning Branch. “[The concentration of plasma] decreases system, the as you get away from planets, but most of the researchers By Emanuel Cavallaro, U.S. Naval Research Laboratory Public Affairs rest of the universe is in the plasma state. We just can move happen to live in a cold spot, relatively.” the hardware within the While naturally-occurring plasmas are rare on full volume of the Earth’s surface, man-made plasmas can be the chamber found in such everyday things as neon signs and through fluorescent lights. They can also be found at NRL’s different areas Plasma Physics Division, where Amatucci and his of the plasma team of research physicists have been using a in precision The blackness of space is deceptive. It massive chamber to create and study them. fashion. looks empty. It’s not. A large-scale vacuum vessel for the creation At the Earth’s ionosphere, about 60 to 1,000 of space-like conditions, the Space Physics kilometers altitude, the sun’s ultraviolet radiation Simulation Chamber is one of only a handful of its ionizes the gasses of the Earth’s atmosphere, kind in the United States and one of the biggest knocking off electrons and leaving behind in the world. electrically charged positive and negative particles. Now the researchers who operate it are looking That collection of particles is called a plasma, for external partners who might want to use it and the Earth is swathed in it. In fact, most of to conduct space plasma experiments or test the visible universe is plasma, 99 percent of it, spacecraft hardware. according to NASA.

The Naval Research Laboratory’s Space Physics simulation chamber.

42 MilsatMagazine — September 2019 “There are a lot of people [within the Department of Defense] who build experiments to fly in space, and this is a place where you could test them in a realistic environment prior to flight,” Amatucci said.

In the Charged Particle Physics Branch lab, Amatucci’s team designs instruments to take their own measurements, and sometimes they design hardware that will fly in space, as well.

In May of this year, their Space PlasmA Diagnostic suitE (SPADE) experiment launched on a SpaceX Falcon 9 resupply mission for the International Space Station.

The experiment consists of a pair of “plasma impedance probes” designed to monitor the background plasma conditions for space weather measurements and also monitor for hazardous levels of spacecraft charging on the space Research physicist David Blackwell performing a calibration of a plasma sensor inside the station, which goes through day-to-night cycles NRL Space Physics Simulation Chamber. of charging and discharging as it travels through different plasmas. As one of the biggest operators of satellites, the the ionosphere or different regions of the U.S. Navy has a keen interest in understanding the Earth’s magnetosphere. Now that SPADE is on the space station, fundamental properties of space plasmas and the everything is going according to plan, Amatucci applied plasma physics problems that the lab is “Depending on where they occur in space, said. Each day, his team downloads new data using the chamber to study. plasmas have a range of properties,” Amatucci from the experiment. said. “There are places where the magnetic Mimicking Space field is fairly uniform, so we can make a uniform “It’s been fantastic,” Amatucci said. “We’re magnetic field. There are places where it may be getting tons of data. More than we can swallow NRL began construction on the chamber in stronger in one area than another, and we can do right now. So we’re in the initial stages of doing 1990 and it was operational two years later. The that in the lab as well.” our deep dives into the data.” chamber is made up of two sections: the large, main chamber, which is 5 meters long and about They’re also using the chamber for diagnostic 2 meters in diameter, and a smaller chamber that development and preflight testing of hardware is 2 meters long and 0.5 meter in diameter. that must withstand the rigors of spaceflight.

The smaller section is called the source chamber Like the space station, a spacecraft passing — researchers use it to create and manipulate through plasma will accumulate electrical charges, the plasmas before sending them into the occasionally resulting in high voltages and main chamber. electrical discharges that can damage electronics and even disable satellites. During operation, researchers evacuate the chamber of air, fill it with noble gas (often argon, “These charged particles can interact with each though they use a range of different gasses in other over long distances,” Amatucci said. “So their experiments) and then ionize the gas by there’s a rich variety of disturbances and waves stripping electrons from the gas atoms. that can ripple through them. We want to understand the basic behavior of the medium so “Our chamber is unique in that we can make that we can have reliable and persistent operation steady-state plasmas with properties that either of our satellites.” match or scale to many different regions of near- Earth space plasmas,” Amatucci said. “We have a By mounting hardware, such as probes or steady feed of gas, which is steadily being ionized, miniature satellites, on a 3D-positioning system, creating this uniform condition in the chamber the researchers can move the hardware within that we can scale to different regions of space.” the full volume of the chamber through different areas of the plasma in precision fashion. To hold together the plasma inside the chamber, the researchers create a background magnetic “It’s great for diagnosing the entire plasma or field using electromagnet coils that encircle the moving your probe from one set of conditions to vacuum chamber. another set of conditions,” Amatucci said. “That’s Research physicist and head of the U.S. Naval a big selling point for external users.” Research Laboratory™s Charged Particle During their experiments, they can fine-tune this Physics Branch Bill Amatucci stands in front magnetic field to mimic the different conditions in of the source chamber section of the Space www.navy.mil/local/nrl/ NRL Physics Simulation Chamber. MilsatMagazine — September 2019 43