Appendix B
Theater LandWarNet Equipment Overview
This appendix discusses some of the signal equipment used by theater signal elements to extend the LWN and joint capability to theater operations. This appendix is in no way complete and should be used only as a brief overview. With the advent of WIN-T newer and improved systems will become available for fielding.
SECTION I - SATELLITE COMMUNICATIONS TERMINALS
B-1. The use of space as a strategic communication layer presents joint forces with several enhanced information-based capabilities on the battlefield. SATCOM allows widely separated users to communicate with each other directly from numerous sites that are far beyond the range of terrestrial LOS transport systems. The Army uses SATCOM primarily for voice and data, but it is rapidly developing in other application areas to include imagery, VTC, and global broadcast. Mobility and flexibility on the battlefield and broadcast capability to deployed units throughout an entire theater of operations are unique satellite capabilities that cannot be equaled by terrestrial methods. SATCOM is the fulcrum of joint communications.
SATCOM TERMINALS AN/TSC-8SB(V)2, AN/TSC-8SB(V)1, AND AN/TSC-8SC(V)1
B-2. The AN/TSC-85 terminals (see Figure B-1) contain equipment to receive, transmit, and process low, medium, and high capacity multiplexed voice, data, and teletypewriter signals. Using encryption devices, they will process secure and non-secure traffic. The terminals are intended for either point-to-point or multipoint operations in tactical communications systems. They can transmit one and receive up to four high data rate carriers. The AN/TSC-85(V)2 requires an external multiplex shelter to terminate the circuits. The terminals include modulation and demodulation equipment and a specialized pulse code modulation (PCM) signal processor. The terminals have external connections for an intercommunication set, field telephones, and chemical, biological, and radiological (CBR) alarm.
Figure B-1. AN/TSC-S5B(V)2
SATCOM TERMINALS AN/TSC-93B(V)2 AND AN/TSC-93C(V)1
B-3. The AN/TSC-93 terminals contain equipment to receive, transmit, and process medium and high capacity multiplexed voice, data, and teletypewriter circuits. Using encryption equipment, they will process secure and non-secure traffic. The terminals are intended for point-to-point operation in tactical communications systems. They can simultaneously transmit and receive a single high data rate carrier. The terminals include modulation and demodulation equipment and a specialized PCM signal processor. Digital interfaces are set up using external connections for a communications set, field telephones, and CBR alarm. These terminals are used as a communications link via satellite with the AN/TSC-85 or another AN/TSC-93. Figure B-2 shows an AN/TSC-93B with an 8-foot antenna.
Figure B·2. AN/TSC·93B
SATCOM TERMINAL AN/TSC-143 TRI-BAND
B-4. The AN/TSC-143 (see Figure B-3) is cutting edge military-commercial SATCOM consisting of non- developmental items, COTS, and government furnished equipment. It is configured on a heavy high mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicle (HMMWV) (M1097) and is C-130 roll on and off capable. The AN/TSC-143 operates in the SHF C, X, and Ku bands, and is capable of operation in hub-spoke, mesh, or point-to-point configurations. It is interoperable with AN/TSC-85B/93B systems and DSCS gateway terminals at the RF level through the modems and at the multiplex level through the tactical satellite signal processor (TSSP) and integrated digital network exchange. It is capable of entering commercial gateways using C and Ku bands. The AN/TSC-143 is deployable worldwide and operates with any of the following satellites: DSCS, NATO, International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT), European Telecommunication Satellite Organization, Pan American Satellite Organization, Skynet 4, Spanish communications satellites HISPASAT, and domestic satellites (Spacenet and GSTAR). The AN/TSC-143 stores the corresponding uplink and downlink bands and data rate parameters for these satellites within its database. The AN/TSC-143 allows accurate satellite tracking by incorporating a beacon receiver that is compatible with all commercial and defense payload beacon signals. The terminal meets the certification requirements of the DSCS and INTELSAT, allowing operation with other users on the satellites and with other standard earth terminals. The AN/TSC-143 has commercial telephone access through its switch for positive terminal control in commercial satellite applications and a STU III for control in DSCS applications.
Figure B·3. AN/TSC·143
SATCOM AN/TSC-156 PHOENIX
B-5. The AN/TSC-156 terminal (see Figure B-4), also known as the Phoenix, is a transportable multi- channel TACSAT communications terminal operating in the SHF band. Its mission is to provide flexible, mobile, high capacity, extended-range communications connectivity using military and commercial satellite space segments. The Phoenix may interface with other strategic networks via STEPs or strategic assets. The Block 2 Phoenix will be designated the AN/TSC-156A and adds the capability of using a fourth band known as Ka-band, which will be available on the Wideband Gapfiller Satellite. Ka-band will allow higher throughput so the Phoenix Block 2 terminal has added components to provide more throughput. The addition of the fourth band adds redundant Ka-band high power amplifiers, quad band converters, and the use of a sub-reflector and new feed assembly. The two additional Ka-band high power amplifiers will be permanently mounted on the sides of the antenna backbone. The sub-reflector and feed assembly will be mounted when using Ka-band and will be stored on the terminal when not in use. The AN/TSC-156 is slated to replace the current AN/TSC-85/93 at corps and above.
Figure B·4. AN/TSC·156 Phoenix
FLYAWAY TRI-BAND SATELLITE TERMINAL AN/USC-60A
B-6. The ANIUSC-60A flyaway tri-band satellite terminal (see Figure B-5) is a COTS tri-band terminal. It is small,