THE ETERNITY MACHINE
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THE BABY WAS MENT TO DIE THE THREE MEXICANS ACROSS FROM ME TODAY, THE BICHES, THEN DOMINOS...THIS HAPPENED AT EPCC, HACKED BY FACEBOOK, BUT THEY LEFT SOME INFO ON MY FLASHDRIVE FOR THE POLICE. NO GOOD NEWS ABOUT VA.
I WILL TRY AGAINE ABOUT THE 4-QBITE AND WHAT I INTERACTED WITH.
THERE WAS ALOT MORE THAT WAS POSITVE
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| DENIED AGAIN, EVEN WHEN EVERYTHING IS IN WRITING. EVERYTHING I HAVE WILL BE PUT ON THE NET. |
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| THE DEADLINE WAS MET, BUT IT DOESN'T MATTER.
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Department of Defense (DoD)
Strategic Spectrum Plan
Submitted to the Department of Commerce
In Response to
The Presidential Spectrum Policy Reform Initiative
February 2008
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Table of Contents
1.0 Introduction............................................................................................................................. 7
1.1 The Mission of the Department of Defense..................................................................... 8
1.1.1 National Security Strategy ......................................................................................... 8
1.1.2 National Defense Strategy .......................................................................................... 8
1.1.3 Military Transformation............................................................................................ 9
1.1.4 Network-Centric Warfare........................................................................................ 10
1.2 The DoD Strategic Vision for Spectrum Management............................................... 11
2.0 Executive Summary............................................................................................................. 13
2.1 Key Current Spectrum Requirements......................................................................... 13
2.2 DoD Trends in Future Spectrum Use and New Technology...................................... 14
2.2.1 Future Spectrum Use................................................................................................ 15
2.2.2 DoD Technology Trends........................................................................................... 17
2.3 Strategies for Assessing and Meeting Future Spectrum Needs ................................. 18
2.3.1 The DoD Electromagnetic Spectrum Management Strategic Plan...................... 19
2.3.2 The Defense Spectrum Management Architecture................................................ 19
2.4 DoD Leadership Goals and Objectives for SM ........................................................... 20
3.0 DoD’s 2007 Baseline Spectrum Usage and Needs ............................................................ 23
3.1 3 – 30 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary................................... 24
3.2 30 – 88 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary................................. 25
3.3 108 – 150 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary............................. 26
3.4 162 – 174 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary............................. 27
3.5 216 – 225 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary............................. 27
3.6 225 – 399.9 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage............................................ 28
3.7 400.05 – 420 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary........................ 29
3.8 420 – 450 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary............................. 30
3.9 902 – 928 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary............................. 30
3.11 941 – 944 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary........................... 31
3.12 960 – 1215 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary......................... 32
3.13 1215 – 1390 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary....................... 33
3.14 1390 – 1710 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary....................... 34
3.15 1710 – 1755 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary....................... 36
3.16 1755 – 1850 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary....................... 36
3.17 2200 – 2290 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary....................... 40
3.18 2290 – 2700 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary....................... 41
3.19 2700 – 2900 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary....................... 41
3.20 2900 – 3100 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary....................... 42
3.21 3100 – 3600 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary....................... 43
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Table of Contents (Continued)
3.22 4200 – 4400 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary....................... 44
3.23 4400 – 4990 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary....................... 45
3.24 5000 – 5250 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary....................... 45
3.25 5250 – 5350 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary....................... 46
3.28 5850 – 5925 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary....................... 48
3.29 7.125 – 8.450 GHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary ..................... 49
3.30 8.5 – 9.0 GHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary ............................. 49
3.31 9.5 – 10.45 GHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary ......................... 51
3.32 14.5 – 15.35 GHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary ....................... 52
3.33 15.7 – 17.3 GHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary ......................... 53
3.34 20.2 – 21.2 GHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary ......................... 54
3.35 24.05 – 24.25 GHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary ..................... 54
3.36 25.25 – 25.5 GHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary ....................... 55
3.37 25.5 – 27.0 GHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary ......................... 55
3.38 27 – 27.5 GHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary ............................ 55
3.39 30.0 – 31.0 GHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary ......................... 56
3.40 33.4 – 36.0 GHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary ......................... 56
3.41 Summary of Current DoD Spectrum Usage.............................................................. 57
4.0 Future Needs and Growth Assessment (2015-2020) ......................................................... 58
4.1 DoD Spectrum Requirements, Including Bandwidth and Frequency Location for
Future Technologies or Services.......................................................................................... 58
4.2 Transformation Development Initiatives..................................................................... 59
4.3 Future Terrestrial Spectrum Needs and Growth Trends .......................................... 60
4.3.1 DoD Terrestrial Spectrum Requirements Growth Below 3 GHz......................... 61
4.3.2 DoD Terrestrial Spectrum Requirements Growth Above 3 GHz ........................ 63
4.4 Satellite Communications (SATCOM) Spectrum Needs............................................ 64
4.4.1 Importance of SATCOM to DoD............................................................................. 64
4.4.2 Mix of SATCOM Requirements.............................................................................. 65
4.4.3 SATCOM Spectrum Requirements ........................................................................ 68
4.4.4 Impact of Increased SATCOM Demand ................................................................ 72
4.5 Radar Spectrum Needs.................................................................................................. 72
4.5.1 Search Radar............................................................................................................. 73
4.5.2 Surveillance Radar.................................................................................................... 73
4.5.3 Fire Control/Imaging Radar.................................................................................... 73
4.5.4 Current DoD Radar Systems ................................................................................... 73
4.5.6 Impact of Increased Radar Spectrum Demand ..................................................... 78
4.6 Training, Test and Evaluation Spectrum .................................................................... 78
4.6.1 US Training and T&E Facilities.............................................................................. 79
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Table of Contents (Continued)
4.6.2 Training and T&E Spectrum Demand ................................................................... 80
4.6.3 Future Training Spectrum Requirements .............................................................. 83
4.6.4 Impact of Increased Training on Spectrum Demand............................................ 83
4.7 Transformational Capabilities Driving Future Spectrum Needs Growth................ 84
4.7.1 Unmanned Systems: Unmanned Air Systems (UAS) and Unmanned Ground
Systems (UGS)..................................................................................................................... 84
4.7.1.1 Unmanned Air Systems ..................................................................................... 85
4.7.1.2 UAS Spectrum Demand .................................................................................... 86
4.7.1.3 Unmanned Ground Systems ............................................................................. 88
4.7.1.4 UGS Spectrum Demand .................................................................................... 88
4.7.1.5 Future UAS and UGS Spectrum Requirements ............................................. 88
4.7.2 Future Combat Systems (FCS)................................................................................ 91
4.7.2.1 Future Combat System Wireless Network ...................................................... 92
4.7.2.2 Future Combat System Spectrum Demand .................................................... 93
4.7.2.3 FCS Impact on Increased Demand .................................................................. 94
4.8 Future DoD Spectrum Needs Forecasting ................................................................... 94
5.0 Current and Future Use of Non-Federal Spectrum Offered by Commercial Service
Providers...................................................................................................................................... 95
6.0 Agency Current and Future Use of “Non-Licensed” Devices.......................................... 96
7.0 DoD Spectrum Dependent Technology Initiatives............................................................ 97
7.1 Planned, Future Uses of Spectrum Dependent Technologies or Services................ 97
7.2 DoD Technology Initiatives for Achieving Spectrum Utilization Efficiencies ........ 98
8.0 DoD Biennial Strategic Spectrum Plans ......................................................................... 106
9.0 Additional Comments and Recommendations................................................................ 110
9.1 Comments .................................................................................................................... 110
9.2 Recommendations....................................................................................................... 110
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1.0 Introduction
The President established the US Spectrum Policy Initiative in May 2003.1 The
initiative directed the Secretary of Commerce to prepare recommendations for improving US
spectrum management. Through an NTIA led Federal Government Spectrum Task Force,
recommendations were developed and provided in a two-part series of reports released by the
Secretary of Commerce in June 2004 under the title “Spectrum Policy for the 21st Century – The
Presidents Spectrum Policy Initiative (Reports).” 2 A subsequent Executive memorandum3 dated
November 30, 2004 directed that Executive Departments and Agencies implement the
recommendations from the reports. The Executive memorandum provided additional direction
for federal government offices and agencies to implement, which complements the
recommendations. The additional direction included the following specific guidance:
“Within 1 year of the date of this memorandum, the heads of agencies selected by the
Secretary of Commerce shall provide agency-specific strategic spectrum plans (agency
plans) to the Secretary of Commerce that include:
(1) spectrum requirements, including bandwidth and frequency location for future
technologies or services;
(2) the planned uses of new technologies or expanded services requiring spectrum
over a period of time agreed to by the selected agencies; and
(3) suggested spectrum efficient approaches to meeting identified spectrum
requirements.
The heads of agencies shall update their agency plans biennially. In addition, the heads
of agencies will implement a formal process to evaluate their proposed needs for
spectrum. Such process shall include an analysis and assessment of the options available
to obtain the associated communications services that are most spectrum-efficient and
the effective alternatives available to meet the agency mission requirements. Heads of
agencies shall provide their analysis and assessment to the National Telecommunications
1 See Memorandum on the Spectrum Policy for the 21st Century, 39 Weekly Comp. Pres. Doc. 726, 727 (May 29,
2003) (Spectrum Policy Memorandum), available at http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2003/06/20030605-
4.html; see also Appendix 2.
2 Spectrum Policy for the 21st Century – The President’s Spectrum Policy Initiative: Report 1, US Department of
Commerce (2004) (Report 1), available at
http://www.ntia.doc.gov/reports/specpolini/presspecpolini_report1_06242004.htm; Spectrum Policy for the 21st
Century – The President’s Spectrum Policy Initiative: Report 2, US Department of Commerce (2004) (Report 2),
available at http://www.ntia.doc.gov/reports/specpolini/presspecpolini_report2_06242004.htm. NTIA serves as the
President’s principal adviser on telecommunications and information policies and as manager of the federal
government’s use of the radio spectrum. 47 USC. § 902(b)(2).
3 See Presidential Determination: Memorandum for the Heads of Executive Departments and Agencies, 40 Weekly
Comp. Pres. Doc. 2875, 2876, sec. 3(c) (Nov. 30, 2004) (Executive Memorandum), available at
http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2004/11/20041130-8.html; see also Appendix 3.
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and Information Administration (NTIA) for review when seeking spectrum certification
from the NTIA.”
The Secretary of Commerce selected the Department of Defense (DoD) to be one of the
agencies to submit an agency-specific strategic spectrum plan in a March 10, 2005
Memorandum4. In response, DoD prepared and submitted the Department of Defense Strategic
Spectrum Plan in November 2005. This report, the 2008 DoD Strategic Spectrum Plan, has been
prepared to address the President’s direction to agency heads that respective spectrum plans be
updated on a biennial basis5.
1.1 The Mission of the Department of Defense
This section addresses the mission of the Department of Defense (DoD) and establishes
the basis upon which DoD will address its needs for electromagnetic spectrum resources.
1.1.1 National Security Strategy6
The United States national security strategy is based on a distinctly American
internationalism that reflects the union of values and national interests. The aim of this strategy
is to help make the world not only safer but also better. US goals, concerning the path to
progress, are clear - political and economic freedom, peaceful relations with other states, and
respect for human dignity. To achieve these goals, the United States will:
• Champion aspirations for human dignity;
• Strengthen alliances to defeat global terrorism and work to prevent attacks against the
US and its allies;
• Work with other countries to defuse regional conflicts;
• Prevent enemies from threatening us, our allies, and our friends, with weapons of
mass destruction;
• Ignite a new era of global economic growth through free markets and free trade;
• Expand the circle of development by opening societies and building the infrastructure
of democracy;
• Develop agendas for cooperative action with other main centers of global power; and
• Transform America’s national security institutions to meet the challenges and
opportunities of the twenty-first century.
1.1.2 National Defense Strategy7
The US national security strategy provides the basis and direction for the US national
defense strategy. The defense strategy serves broad national objectives of peace, freedom, and
prosperity. DoD has developed a strategic framework to defend the nation and secure a viable
4 Secretary of Commerce Memorandum to the Secretary of Defense, March 10, 2005.
5 Department of Commerce Assistant Secretary of Communications and Information Letter to Assistant Secretary of
Defense for Networks and Information Integration & Chief Information Officer, 2 Aug 2007
6 National Security Strategy, 2002.
7 National Defense Strategy, March 2005.
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peace8. This framework is based on four major defense policy goals which provide the
foundation for the definition and prioritization of missions and capabilities. These four policy
goals are:
• Assuring allies and friends;
• Dissuading potential adversaries;
• Deterring aggression and countering coercion against US interests; and
• If deterrence fails, decisively defeating any adversary.
Diplomatic and economic efforts seek to promote these objectives globally by encouraging
democracy and free markets. US defense strategy seeks to defend freedom for the United States
and its allies and friends, and it helps to secure an international environment of peace which
makes other goals possible.
1.1.3 Military Transformation
The President has repeatedly emphasized the vital importance of military transformation
to the future defense of the United States. The significance of military transformation to US
defense strategy is also apparent by its inclusion as one of the seven interconnected strategic
tenets. The transformation strategy is one for large-scale innovation.
The 2002 National Security Strategy9 states that the goal of military transformation “must
be to provide the President with a wider range of military options to discourage aggression or
any form of coercion against the United States, our allies, and our friends. Our forces will be
strong enough to dissuade potential adversaries from pursuing a military build-up in hopes of
surpassing, or equaling, the power of the United States.”
DoD’s Transformation Planning Guidance10 describes transformation as: A process that
shapes the changing nature of military competition and cooperation through new combinations of
concepts, capabilities, people, and organizations that exploit our nation’s advantages and protects
against our asymmetric vulnerabilities to sustain our strategic position, which helps underpin
peace and stability in the world. Transformation is necessary to ensure that US forces continue
to operate from a position of overwhelming military advantage in support of strategic objectives.
Over the long-term, our security (and the prospect for peace and stability for much of the
rest of the world) depends on the success of transformation. We are at the confluence of three
broad trends: the movement of our society and much of the world from the industrial age to the
information age; the appearance of an expanded array of threats in a more uncertain context; and
vast technological opportunities available to both friend and foe alike.
The Department’s transformation will be shaped and influenced by the emerging realities
of competition in the information age and the concept of network-centric warfare (NCW). The
Department has always considered the electromagnetic spectrum as a vital resource and now this
resource is being incorporated into the process of shaping the change in military competition and
cooperation.
8 Military Transformation: A Strategic Approach, Fall 2003, Director of Force Transformation, Office of the
Secretary of Defense, 1000 Defense Pentagon, Washington, DC 20201-1000
9 National Security Strategy, 2002.
10 Transformation Planning Guidance, April 2003.
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1.1.4 Network-Centric Warfare
In the information age, power is increasingly derived from information sharing,
information access, and speed. Network-centric warfare is the military expression of the
information age; it refers to the combination of emerging tactics, techniques, and technologies
that a networked force employs to create a decisive warfighting advantage. It provides a new
conceptual framework with which to examine military missions, operations, and organizations in
the information age.
As an organizing principle, NCW accelerates our ability to know, decide, and act by
linking sensors, communications systems, and weapons systems in an interconnected grid. A
warfighting force with networked capabilities allows a commander to analyze the battlespace,
rapidly communicate critical information to friendly combat forces, and marshal a lethal
combination of air, land, and sea capabilities to exert massed effects against an adversary. A
force employing network-centric operations will be able to move into a new competitive space,
thereby gaining a decided advantage over a force conducting traditional platform-centric
operations.
Although the transformation of the US Armed Forces is a continuing process, the recent
performance of US forces in the successful conduct of Operation Enduring Freedom and
Operation Iraqi Freedom has provided a glimpse of the future potential of the emerging way of
war. The basic tenets of NCW, set forth in Network Centric Warfare: Department of Defense
Report to Congress (July 27, 2001), are as follows:
• A robustly networked force improves information sharing;
• Information sharing enhances the quality of information and shared situational
awareness; and
• Shared situational awareness enables collaboration and self-synchronization and
enhances sustainability and speed of command.
NCW represents a powerful set of warfighting concepts and associated military
capabilities which allow warfighters to take full advantage of all available information and bring
all available assets to bear in a timely and flexible manner. The transformed joint force will be
capable of achieving US strategic and operational objectives more quickly while employing
more agile and rapidly deployable forces.
In February 2006, The Secretary of Defense issued the Quadrennial Defense Review
Report11 (QDR Report), which builds upon the transformational defense agenda directed by the
President (as expressed in the 2001 QDR Report), the changes in the US global defense posture,
and the operational experiences of the previous four years. The 2006 QDR Report emphasizes
the importance of joint capabilities and net-centricity in achieving a truly integrated joint force
that is more agile, more rapidly deployable, and more capable against the wider range of threats.
To respond to these unpredictable threats, US Armed Forces who traditionally focused on
11 Quadrennial Defense Review Report, Office of the Secretary of Defense, February 6, 2006.
11
deterrence, stability, and warfighting missions arising in overseas theaters must now also assist
in securing the homeland.
The 2006 QDR Report highlights the shift in philosophy to meet the new strategic
environment; one in which threat-based planning is replaced by capabilities-based planning;
where horizontal integration in lieu of “stovepipes” is the norm; and where the emphasis is on
moving data to the user and not vice versa. Each of the aforementioned has a future impact on
spectrum planning, SM, and the design of spectrum-dependent systems.
1.2 The DoD Strategic Vision for Spectrum Management
The Department of Defense has always considered the electromagnetic spectrum a vital
resource. This increased emphasis has resulted in changes to processes, new and restructured
spectrum management organizations, and other specific initiatives.
In August 2006, Assistant Secretary of Defense, Networks and Information Integration
(ASD(NII)) released the Department of Defense Net-Centric Spectrum Management Strategy12
which presents a DoD vision for the management as well as use of the electromagnetic (EM)
spectrum and establishes a strategy for achieving that vision. It is the realization of a networked
environment that will be achieved through the implementation of highly integrated wireless
systems and spectrum-dependent technologies in which EM spectrum support is a principal
component of the Global Information Grid’s (GIG’s) foundation layer.
DoD Spectrum Management Vision - In a net-centric environment, the DoD vision is
that EM spectrum will be accessible to all spectrum-dependent systems on an as needed basis.
Spectrum situational awareness will allow multiple spectrum-dependant systems to maximize
use of available spectrum to exploit battlefield opportunities while preventing interference to
other authorized users. This will be enabled through the use of spectrum standards, SM
protocols, and software agents that will provide both an understanding of the type and amount of
spectrum in use and access to the most operationally effective spectrum available. The tenants of
the net-centric spectrum management strategy is shown in Table 1-1.
12 Department of Defense Net-Centric Spectrum Management Strategy, ASD/NII, August 9, 2006
Net-Centric SM considerations are infused into DOD processes, practices,
planning, doctrine, training and operations. SM recognized throughout DOD as a
necessary and complementary function that is essential to maintaining the network.
Integrated
Enabled by agile SM policies and practices, future spectrum-dependent devices will
reconfigure spectrum use and s Seamless pectrum control attributes independently.
SM policies and practices to provide the flexibility to allow systems to dynamically
adjust and scale to support change in size and scope of demand to be responsive
to mission requirements.
Agile
Spectrum information to be defined via standards and SM protocols so users
and spectrum-dependent devices can discern spectrum data available on the GIG.
Users post spectrum usage via spectrum data elements that describe the
essential attributes of spectrum utilization. Spectrum situational awareness is
maintained through a Spectrum User-Defined Operational Picture (S-UDOP).
Understandable
Vision for Spectrum Strategy
spectrum Table 1-1 DoD Net-Centric Spectrum Management Strategy
12
The network will be “dynamic”, interactive, and instantly aware of spectrum that is
available for reuse and reprioritization by other wireless systems; as the network moves, the SM
structure will adapt as necessary to ensure the systems remain optimized. To accommodate the
complexity and demands associated with supporting network centric operations within the
mobile tactical framework, SM must be decentralized and performed autonomously throughout
the network to be successful.
It is essential that DoD engage in both the National and International planning process to
support the goal of achieving global DoD net-centric capabilities; thus, DoD will continue to
coordinate with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and
other federal agencies prior to the introduction of dymanic, transformational spectrum
capabilities.
The DoD Net-Centric Spectrum Management Strategy is one of the principal drivers in
DoD’s strategic planning for spectrum management. Among the methods envisioned is the
development of a SM architectural framework, which will include a transition strategy and
roadmap with detailed descriptions of the operational capabilities, environment characteristics,
and architecture imperatives for each transition point.
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2.0 Executive Summary
The President’s Executive Memorandum13 of November 30, 2004 directed that Executive
Departments and Agencies implement the recommendations from the reports. The Executive
Memorandum provided additional direction for Federal Government offices and agencies to
implement and to complement the recommendations, namely that agency heads provide agencyspecific
strategic spectrum plans to the Secretary of Commerce which include the following:
(1) spectrum requirements, including bandwidth and frequency location for future
technologies or services;
(2) the planned uses of new technologies or expanded services requiring spectrum over a
period of time agreed to by the selected agencies; and
(3) suggested spectrum efficient approaches to meeting identified spectrum requirements.
The Secretary of Commerce selected the Department of Defense (DoD) to be one of the
agencies to submit an agency-specific strategic spectrum plan in a March 10, 2005
Memorandum14. In response, DoD prepared and submitted the Department of Defense Strategic
Spectrum Plan in November 2005. This document, the 2008 DoD Strategic Spectrum Plan, has
been prepared to satisfy the President’s direction to agency heads that respective spectrum plans
be updated on a biennial basis15.
2.1 Key Current Spectrum Requirements
There has been no significant change in DoD current spectrum usage from that reported
in the 2005 DoD Strategic Spectrum Plan. DoD continues to operate in most government
exclusive spectrum bands and in many shared bands (as shown in Figure 2-1). The
preponderance of DoD frequency assignments occur below 6 GHz is conducive to reliable,
moderate capacity terrestrial and mobile operations while spectrum above 6 GHz supports
critical DoD functions and applications requiring higher capacity services. Figure 2-1 provides a
graphical depiction of the many spectrum bands throughout the managed electromagnetic
spectrum where DoD has critical operations.
DoD’s current spectrum usage and needs are addressed in Section 3, in which baseline
requirements are described according to individual spectrum bands. Each band’s importance to
DoD is described as well as the primary operations, applications, and key systems DoD uses in
the band. DoD has not identified spectrum parameters such as frequency or bandwidth in this
document; to do so would, as a minimum, classify this document as “For Official Use Only”.
13 See Presidential Determination: Memorandum for the Heads of Executive Departments and Agencies, 40 Weekly
Comp. Pres. Doc. 2875, 2876, sec. 3(c) (Nov. 30, 2004) (Executive Memorandum), available at
http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2004/11/20041130-8.html; see also Appendix 3.
14 Secretary of Commerce Memorandum to the Secretary of Defense, March 10, 2005.
15 National Security Strategy, 2002.
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Figure 2-2. Future Battlespace in the Net-
Centric Operational Environment
2.2 DoD Trends in Future Spectrum Use and New Technology
In the future, warfighters will operate in a dynamic, multi-layered, multi-dimensional
battlespace, as illustrated in Figure 2-2. In this environment, they will rely on robust, secure
connectivity from the “first tactical mile.” Such capability will only be attained through a broad
array of secure net-centric links interconnecting people and systems, independent of time or
location, will provide improved military situational awareness, better access to Department of
Defense (DoD) information, and shortened decision cycles. The key enabler for net-centricity is
the DoD Global Information Grid
(GIG).
The GIG is supported by a
seamless communications
environment that includes both
commercial and military networks
accommodating a range of
transmission media, standards, and
protocols. Extension of the GIG
down to the lowest warfighting
echelons will be made possible
through coupling integrated wireless
architectures with spectrumdependent
systems such as communications, weapons, precision munitions, sensors, geo-
Figure 2-1 Depiction of DoD operations in spectrum bands below 40 GHz
15
3 MHz 30 MHz 300 MHz 3 GHz 30 GHz 300 GHz
4.2 – 4.4 GHz
9.5 – 17.3 GHz
33.4 – 38.0 GHz
3 MHz – 2.29 GHz
Figure 2-3 Bands in which DoD spectrum usage is expected to increase.
GHz
location, and other wireless devices. As these wireless architectures are realized, the DoD
requirement for throughput is increasing dramatically while worldwide competition for
electromagnetic (EM) spectrum continues to put pressure on US military spectrum access.
Future access to sufficient spectrum will only be achieved through both the application of
technologies that increase channel efficiencies and supplements to spectrum available to DoD
through the sharing of access to other government and commercial networks worldwide.
DoD’s future spectrum needs, as described in Section 4, are addressed primarily
according to major categories of service. The categories used for DoD’s future spectrum
demands assessment include terrestrial and satellite communications, radar, and test/training.
The discussion of bands used for satellite communications encompasses both current (baseline)
and future needs. Each category of future spectrum needs includes an assessment of how
applicable bands and systems are projected to experience an increased demand for use in the
future.
2.2.1 Future Spectrum Use
Critical to achieving this capability is communications connectivity and flexibility across
geographically dispersed, heterogeneous systems at capacity levels far greater than previously
experienced. Indications are that DoD will experience increased usage of EM spectrum for
numerous systems in the future; the frequency bands most affected for terrestrial systems are
depicted in Figure 2-3.
For terrestrial mobile operations using spectrum below 3 GHz, DoD’s need for spectrum
access will increase significantly over the next decade and beyond. This increase is in support of
the Joint Transformational Communications concepts of the Army and Marine Corps Future
Combat Systems, the Air Force Command and Control Constellation, and Navy FORCEnet.
Mobile spectrum usage beyond 2014 is driven by transition to Wideband Network Waveform
16
(WNW) wireless networks that contribute to the realization of Network-Centric Warfare. These
networks will provide increased situational awareness, dissemination of timely intelligence, and
direct high-bandwidth communications to all battlefield users.
For terrestrial mobile operations using spectrum above 3 GHz, data link requirements for
battlefield systems are projected to grow significantly through 2015. This growth is driven by
the need to support the increased use of battlefield sensors and high data rate transfers associated
with airborne high-resolution, hyper-spectral sensor data. Moreover, new requirements are
surfacing for Secure Wireless LANs in the 5 GHz band and UAV Command & Control links
along with Future Combat System (FCS) Data Networks in the 30 GHz to 40 GHz frequency
band.
With respect to DoD’s need for spectrum in bands allocated for satellite communications
(SATCOM), both government and non-government spectrum bands are addressed. To satisfy
the increased demand for SATCOM associated with transformational warfighting and DoD’s
need for information, DoD is planning to field several new satellite constellations that will
require access to satellite spectrum. As these systems are expected to operate in the current
bands identified for satellite utilization, the increase in the number of constellations utilizing the
same frequency bands will put pressure on the frequency spectrum to satisfy this demand while
providing necessary assurance of interference free operations.
Since all currently used SATCOM frequency spectrum is projected for continued or
expanded use, there is growing competition for SATCOM spectrum. This competition will
increase as new commercial satellite constellations and DoD transformational SATCOM
constellation is fielded. Future systems will use the totality of the existing SATCOM frequency
bands and the associated orbital slot assignments unless, or until, other bands or services can
better meet requirements. Consequently, sufficient nationally and internationally allocated
frequency spectrum and orbital slots must be retained/obtained as an essential enabler of
military-unique systems and capabilities. Denying the warfighters’ use of any portion of the
spectrum would reduce flexibility and jeopardize mission accomplishment.
Current DoD radar spectrum requirements are extensive and will grow in the future; the
trend in military radar is towards wider bandwidths both to better discriminate target objects and
to provide additional signal processing for anti-jam techniques. New developments in radar
systems are planned for the upper frequency bands (above 10 GHz), but these developments are
generally intended to enhance capabilities rather than supplant the existing systems in the lower
bands.
Training and test and evaluation (T&E) missions each have different, independent
objectives. However, they most often share common radio frequency (RF) equipment and
common resources and are often conducted in parallel to ensure realistic operational testing
while maximizing training opportunities for military units. The demand for spectrum to support
training and T&E events has increased over the last decade and will continue to increase as the
design, development, testing, fielding, and employment of systems in support of force
transformation is matched more closely with DoD warfighting needs.
As with many other DoD systems and services, the spectrum requirements of unmanned
systems will continue in all of the same frequency bands utilized today but will grow in selected
bands. In these selected bands, there will be a steady rise in the number of frequencies required
to support the growing use of unmanned systems, an increase in the bandwidth for frequencies to
17
support increased data transfer, and an increase in the time of operation due to longer on-station
requirements. Meeting the increased requirement for spectrum dedicated to support unmanned
systems will require increased attention to spectrum management schemes and scheduling to
promote sharing of frequencies. Additionally, technologies that increase onboard processing and
compression of sensor data will assist in reducing the amount of contiguous bandwidth needed to
support airborne data links. Without significant spectrum reuse and fielding of spectrum
efficient technologies, unmanned systems will be constrained in their use of spectrum to achieve
overall mission needs and may require highly refined scheduling plans to ensure operations are
executed within the limits of available spectrum.
2.2.2 DoD Technology Trends
Technological superiority is one of the cornerstones of US national military strategy and
maintaining this advantage becomes even more significant in light of the objective to achieve
and maintain dominance across the full range of crises and military operations even as the size of
US forces decreases. The Department of Defense’s focus on investing in technologies that will
enable improvements in spectrum access and utilization efficiency is evidenced by the allocation
of Army, Navy, and Air Force technology funding on specific research and development projects
related to improving spectrum use.
Realizing DoD’s vision for network-centric operations requires the achievement of high
capacity, flexible, networked, communications connectivity across geographically dispersed,
heterogeneous, on-the-move systems. Advances in communications and networking technology are
an underlying mechanism necessary to achieve the revolutionary capabilities expected to support the
N-C environment. This includes the technologies for the management of the individual media and
the creation and management of networks for devices using the media.
To this end, DoD research and development activities range from antennas, transmission
media, signal specifications, and standards to architectures, protocols, networking technologies, and
network management, for example:
• Scaleable video compression schemes which dynamically trade off bandwidth and
quality based upon the priority of the required information;
• Multi-mode, multi-function, sense-and-adapt air-mobile communications capability to
dynamically alter communications methods under fast-changing environments;
• Bandwidth and network management techniques that can effectively manage and
allocate wireless bandwidth across tactical and theater levels;
• Signal processing techniques to enable reliable low-power multi-media
communications among highly mobile users under adverse wireless conditions; and
• Multi-input, multi-output, multi-carrier waveforms which exploit non-contiguous
spectrum during mobile operations.
Through the insertion of such technologies, spectrum utilization efficiencies will be
enhanced along with the goal of seamless communication between globally dispersed locations and
positions in theater down to the lowest echelon will be achieved.
18
2.3 Strategies for Assessing and Meeting Future Spectrum Needs
The DoD Net-Centric Spectrum Management Strategy16 presents the future view of SM
in the net-centric environment. The strategy presents the what – the vision of net-centric SM.
However, it does not describe the how – the specific approach and implementation required to
achieve the vision. It identifies SM practices necessary to support the net-centric environment to
assure that SM is infused into future wireless architectures, systems, and capabilities. As
illustrated in Figure 2-4, the intent of the strategy is not to describe the technologies and
programs that will implement net-centric SM; the intent is to provide a description of what is
needed for SM to accomplish its vital role as an enabler for net-centric operations.
Through the experiences acquired in developing the 2005 DoD Strategic Spectrum Plan17
the DoD has recognized the need for near- and far-term spectrum planning processes that provide
a high degree of predictability. As such, the Department envisions a plan for the development of
a current user needs analysis for spectrum dependent systems and a methodology for
characterization and forecasting of long-range spectrum requirements.”
The Department recognizes that the development of an effective biennial process will be
a significant challenge. Furthermore, the department recognizes the increasingly global nature of
the telecommunications marketplace and the effect of spectrum encroachment on critical DoD
systems. As a result, the department must assist other executive departments and agencies of the
16 Op. Cit.
17 The Department of Defense Strategic Spectrum Plan, November 30, 2005.
Figure 2-4 DoD Net-Centric SM Objectives
19
U.S. government in developing a unified coherent National Strategic Spectrum plan that will
include an approach to addressing the concern of spectrum encroachment on critical DoD
systems worldwide. Additionally, DoD will work closely with NTIA and the Commerce
Department to ensure that DoD’s future process is optimized to meet the intent of the
Presidential Memorandum.
2.3.1 The DoD Electromagnetic Spectrum Management Strategic Plan
The Department of Defense has long understood the criticality of electromagnetic
spectrum access. Net-centricity depends on an environment that provides full connectivity and
interoperability to produce and share a common understanding of all dimensions of the
battlespace. The key enabler for net-centricity is the DoD Global Information Grid (GIG). The
GIG is supported by a seamless communications environment which includes both commercial
and military networks accommodating a range of transmission media, standards, and protocols.
Extension of the GIG down to the lowest warfighting echelons will be made possible through
coupling integrated wireless architectures with spectrum-dependent systems such as
communications, weapons, precision munitions, sensors, geo-location, and various wireless
devices.
The vision of assured spectrum access led to the development of the draft 2007 DoD
Electromagnetic Spectrum Management Strategic Plan (EM SMSP). This plan establishes goals
and associated objectives to “assure the availability of, and access to, sufficient electromagnetic
spectrum.”18 The goals of the DoD plan are presented in Figure 2-5.
2.3.2 The Defense Spectrum Management Architecture
With regard to the goals and objectives of the EM SMSP, it is recognized that a detailed
and systematic understanding of SM processes, systems, and impacts of emerging technologies is
18 Joint Spectrum Vision 2010, September 27, 1999.
Figure 2-5 Goals of the draft 2007 DOD EM Spectrum Management Strategic Plan
Achieve a seamless SM and E3 control environment through the
transformation of processes, practices, and operations as
envisioned by the DOD Net-Centric Spectrum Management Strategy.
Evolve near- and far-term spectrum planning processes that
provide a high degree of predictability for achieving assured
spectrum access on a worldwide basis.
Advance net-centric SM principles within the warfighting and
business domains of DOD through education and outreach.
Advocate and defend DOD spectrum positions in national and
international arenas that will achieve the tenets of net-centric SM.
Improve EM spectrum utilization through technology insertion to
achieve net-centric SM
Goal 1
Goal 2
Goal 3
Goal 4
Goal 5
20
Fig 2-6 Defense Spectrum Management Architecture (OV-1)
needed to guide implementation. DoD has developed an enterprise architecture, The Defense
Spectrum Management Architecture (DMSA), for spectrum management (See Figure 2-6). The
purpose of the DMSA is to provide decision makers and supporting staffs with a comprehensive,
standardized description of the organizational information exchange and system functions
required to satisfy DoD spectrum requirements.
The DSMA will be used to support capital planning and investment, joint capabilities
integration and development, DoD Acquisition, and interoperability between and among
information technology (IT) systems as required by OMB. To properly depict the Department’s
transition to its objective capability, select operational system and technical architecture views
also document the future architecture for SM within DoD for three incremental timeframes
(Transitional Architectures) and for the “To-Be” spectrum management environment (Target
Architecture). The objective timeframe is projected for 2025+ and describes the spectrum
management capability needed to assure spectrum access required to support DoD in net-centric
warfare and operations.
2.4 DoD Leadership Goals and Objectives for SM
DoD began an evaluation of its SM policies and plans to better support military
transformation. The Deputy Secretary of Defense (DepSecDef) issued the Department of
Defense Electromagnetic Spectrum Management Strategic Plan19 in December 2002 to enable
SM transformation. The plan embraced a vision for SM and electromagnetic environmental
effects (E3) control and established strategic goals whose attainment would enable the warfighter
to access the spectrum required to prevail in the dynamic battlespace of the future. Shortly after
the release of the 2002 plan, a revision to DoD Directive 4650.1, Policy for Management and
19 Department of Defense, Office of Assistant Secretary of Defense (Command, Control, Communications and
Intelligence), Electromagnetic Spectrum Management Strategic Plan, October 2002, Washington, D.C.
21
Use of the Electromagnetic Spectrum20 was undertaken, and subsequently completed. Other
actions included commencement of both the development of the Department of Defense Net-
Centric Spectrum Management Strategy which reflects net-centric operations and the
conceptualization of a Global Electromagnetic Spectrum Information System (GEMSIS).
The draft 2007 DoD Electromagnetic Spectrum Management Strategic Plan establishes
goals and associated objectives to “assure the availability of, and access to, sufficient
electromagnetic spectrum.”21 The timing and scope of this plan is influenced by several factors,
namely:
• The President’s direction “to agency heads” for improving SM policies and
procedures as embodied in the President’s Spectrum Policy Initiative 22 ;
• Alignment of SM goals and objectives with the 2006 Quadrennial Defense Review
(QDR) Report23, including the establishment of objectives that support joint
warfighting capability; and
• Alignment of SM goals and objectives with US military transformation to a more
agile expeditionary force, and a corresponding move toward a more Department-wide
enterprise, net-centric approach. That is, SM must transform to reflect the DoD Net-
Centric SM Strategy24 and the net-centric joint operational environment25,26,27.
The goals of this Plan extend the basic tenets of the 2002 strategic plan to achieve the NC
SM vision and to assure that SM is transformed to a new net-centric paradigm. As shown in
Figure 2-7, successful SM transformation is inextricably linked to achieving the goals of this
plan as framed by the net-centricity decisions of the 2006 QDR Report, the ASD(NII) spectrum
initiatives, the Net-Centric SM Strategy, and the Defense Spectrum Management Architecture.
20 DOD Directive NUMBER 4650.1, Policy for Management and Use of the Electromagnetic Spectrum, June 8,
2004.
21 Joint Spectrum Vision 2010, September 27, 1999
22 Presidential Memo on Spectrum Policy, Subject: Spectrum Policy for the 21st Century, June 2003
23 Quadrennial Defense Review Report, Office of the Secretary of Defense, February 6, 2006
24 Department of Defense Net-Centric Spectrum Management Strategy, ASD/NII, August 9, 2006
25 Capstone Requirements for Joint Operations, Version 2.0, Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff, August 2005
26 Net-Centric Environment - Joint Functional Concept, Version 1.0, Joint Staff, April 7, 2005
27 Net-Centric Environment - Joint Integrating Concept, Joint Staff, October 31, 2005
22
Several goals of DoD’s draft 2007 SM Strategic Plan have much in common with the
spectrum requirements tasks directed by the Executive Memorandum; albeit focused in the nearterm,
it is important to note the general agreement between the Memorandum’s directions and
the DoD plan’s objectives. For example: two objectives for Goal 2 state respectively, “Develop
a comprehensive plan for the determination of current baseline spectrum usage” and “Design
and implement methods to analyze and forecast spectrum requirements.” Another example can
be found in Goal 5 wherein one objective is to “Recognize technologies that enhance spectrum
utilization efficiency and effectiveness for all DoD systems.” Each of these objectives relate
directly to the Secretary of Commerce’s directions to agency heads, cited in Section 1, regarding
the content required for the federal spectrum plan.
Figure 2-7 Goals of the DoD Spectrum Management Strategic Plan
23
3.0 DoD’s 2007 Baseline Spectrum Usage and Needs
DoD currently operates in most government exclusive spectrum bands as well as in many
shared spectrum bands. The vast majority of DoD frequency assignments are below 6 GHz due
to the fact that spectrum in this range is highly conducive to supporting terrestrial mobile
operations with reliable, moderate capacity communications links along with many bands (See
Figure 3-0). Depiction of DoD operations in spectrum bands below 40 GHz provides excellent
propagation characteristics through dense foliage. DoD also employs a number of spectrum
bands above 6 GHz for critical functions and applications. Figure 3-0 provides a graphical
illustration of the many spectrum bands throughout the managed electromagnetic spectrum
where DoD has critical operations. In order to address DoD’s current spectrum usage and needs,
the enclosed material is structured according to individual spectrum bands. Each band’s
importance to DoD is described as well as the main types of operations, applications, and key
systems DoD uses in the band.
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24
3.1 3 – 30 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary
Table 3-1 depicts the major DoD applications/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-1. DoD Operations 3-30 MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Band DoD Application
3-30 X
Voice/Data
Over-the Horizon Radar
Training Range Operations
T&E
The 3-30 MHz band is commonly referred to as the High Frequency (HF) band. This
band has inherent advantages which makes it important for military and emergency
communications. These advantages include rapid set-up, ease of transport, and flexible network
management capability. HF also has the flexibility to simultaneously support both local and
extremely long distance beyond line-of-sight communications. In mountainous areas, it may be
the only terrestrial communications technology that will work for short non-line-of-sight ranges.
Propagation factors decisively influence the availability of HF spectrum and the number of
individual frequencies (e.g. 3 kHz channels) that can be employed. This creates challenges in
addressing emergency needs in dynamic environments typical of disasters, crisies, and conflicts.
Propagation factors also require that frequency channels or sub-bands of an HF pool be evenly
spaced over the 3-30 MHz HF band to allow communications under various ionospheric
conditions.
Criticality of 3 – 30 MHz for DoD Use: The use of fixed service and mobile service HF
allocations is a common denominator in achieving interoperable communications in multinational
efforts. Such scenarios are becoming increasingly common for coalition military
operations and humanitarian relief. The multi-national demand for HF band communications is
understandable given that the primary alternative is high-cost satellite communications. Ad-hoc
coalitions may include nations that possess only HF communications for long-range, over-thehorizon
communications. HF communications may also provide point-to-multi-point (PTMP)
connectivity and allows numerous telecommunications operators to monitor and coordinate
activities. Virtually all military forces possess HF communications, making this type of
capability a key component for readiness.
DoD HF Missions, Uses, and Applications: DoD uses HF for a variety of missions worldwide.
The following are general descriptions of how HF is used in the Department of Defense from the
perspective of specific mission support. The types of applications in which DoD uses the HF
band include voice communications, e-mail, Web Calls, and radar.
Department of the Army Use of 3 – 30 MHz: HF equipment is used by almost every Army
tactical organization, from Company through Corps level. It is primarily used for long-haul
25
communications supporting command and control, logistics, reachback, and coalition interface.
The equipment configurations are manpack, vehicular, fixed base, and aeronautical. The
connectivity provided includes point-to-point, point-to-multi-point, air-to-air, and air-ground-air
missions.
Department of the Air Force Use of 3 – 30 MHz: Air Forces use HF in tactical operations,
strategic communications, and range control. Command and control HF communications are
utilized on a daily basis to ensure readiness of weapon system crews. Coalition and Joint Force
Air Component Commanders employ HF as a means of long-haul communications with
subordinate units.
US Navy Use of 3 – 30 MHz: Reliable HF communications are essential to Carrier Strike
Group (CSG) and Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) operations. In addition, Fleet C4I
operations are supported by long-haul HF communications capabilities. Maritime Forces utilize
HF extensively for operation and training with Allied and Coalition Forces. HF is also important
during periods of natural and man-made interference (i.e., sun spots, adverse ionospheric
activity, and jamming) as ionospheric disturbances facilitate reliable HF communications while
impairing other wireless communications.
US Marine Corps Use of 3-30MHz: The Marine Corps has a significant investment in
communications equipment that transmits and receives via the HF band. Units at all levels of the
Marine Corps routinely communicate with ground, air, and maritime assets using the HF band.
Like the Army, the Marine Corps relies on HF for long and short-range communications. The
Marines also rely on HF communications to establish voice and data links with Coalition and
Joint Forces.
3.2 30 – 88 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary
Table 3-2 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-2. DoD Operations 33-88 MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Band DoD Application
30-88 X X
Voice/Data
NAVAIDS
Command Control Link
RDT&E
Test Range Operations
The largest and most significant DoD operations supported in this portion of the spectrum
include tactical and tactical exercise communications as well as non-tactical communications.
The band is used in air-to-air, air-to-surface-to-air, and surface-to-surface link configurations for
communications with both US and Allied forces. The band is also used to support tactical
training exercises using equipment such as the Mobile Subscriber Radio Telephone (MSRT) and
Radio Access Unit (RAU) components of the Mobile Subscriber Equipment (MSE) and jamresistant
Single Channel Ground & Airborne Radio System (SINCGARS) communications.
Other DoD operations supported in this portion of the spectrum include Research, Development,
26
Test and Evaluation (RDT&E), test range support, and sustaining base/installation infrastructure
support. Approximately 80% of DoD’s spectrum usage in the 30-88 MHz band is in the nonshared
segments below 50 MHz.
The Army and Marine Corps’ primary use of this band is for Combat Net Radios and
tactical training communications with either single-channel or the jam-resistant SINCGARS
radios. Numerous frequencies throughout the 30-88 MHz band are required to satisfy the
requirements for Combat Net Radios, which include single channel and jam-resistant
SINCGARS communications and the very high frequency—frequency modulation (VHF-FM)
components of the MSE. As an example, a nominal Army division requires approximately
750 individual SINCGARS nets on frequencies in this band. In addition, transmit and receive
frequencies from the 30-51 MHz and 59-88 MHz segments, respectively, are required for
MSRT-RAU communications. Navy operations supported in this band include tactical
training, Navigational Aids (NAVAIDS) (to include marker beacons and runway lighting
controls), RDT&E, and special projects. The Air Force operations in this band are tactical
training, security, Civil Engineer's Prime Beef, training communication, range, and RDT&E
support. Additional Air Force operations supported include flight communications, law
enforcement, including communications and security systems, and NAVAIDS Marker
Beacons. Other requirements supported in this band include contingency operations, explosive
ordnance disposal (EOD), Civil Air Patrol (CAP), and meteor burst communications. The Air
Force and Marine Corps both use temporary (temps) assignments in the band primarily for
close air support communications during combat and tactical training exercises. The Marine
Corps’ use of temps supports ground-to-air and ground-to-ground communications during
combat and tactical training exercises.
3.3 108 – 150 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-3 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-3. DoD Operations 108-150 MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
108-150 X
DGPS
Voice/Data
ATC/NAVAIDS
Sensor Data Link
Test/Training Range Operations
RDT&E
The specific operations supported by systems in this frequency band vary in visibility and
criticality, but they generally fall into one of the following categories: (1) tactical
communications, such as air-to-air and multi-aircraft formation communications, sonobuoy data
links, close air support, and air traffic control (ATC); (2) installation support/sustaining base,
such as fire department, medical, civil engineers, and maintenance communications nets; (3)
security, such as police communications, alarms, and intrusion detection systems; and (4)
27
test/training range communications and instrumentation support, such as range control, pop-up
target control, and range timing systems.
The Navy conducts sonobuoy operations in this portion of the spectrum to detect the
presence and location of underwater targets (e.g., submarines). The Civil Air Patrol (CAP),
Coast Guard Auxiliary, and Military Affiliate Radio System (MARS) also use this band
extensively in search and rescue operations.
3.4 162 – 174 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary
Table 3-4 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-4. DoD Operations 162-174 MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
162-174 X
Voice/Data
LMR
Sensor
DoD operations supported in this band are primarily for land mobile systems supporting
law enforcement, maintenance, fire, medical, administration, and other installation/sustaining
base communications requirements. The Navy conducts sonobuoy operations to detect the
presence and location of underwater targets (e.g., submarines). The Army Corps of Engineers
makes extensive use of this band to support navigable waterways and to manage and operate
locks and dams.
The majority of equipment operated by the military in this band is commercially
available land mobile fixed stations, repeaters, and mobile and hand-held units.
3.5 216 – 225 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-5 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-5. DoD Operations 216-225 MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
216-225 X
Voice/Data
Training Range Operations
T&E
Space Surveillance
DoD operations currently supported in this portion of the spectrum include a Navy space
surveillance (SPASUR) system, the Air Force's hazardous fire-protection suit communications
systems, and Army tactical radio-relay systems. The Army operations in this portion of the
28
spectrum include radio-relay system training, test range support (timing, beacons, and RDT&E),
and contingency operations.
The Navy’s Fleet Operational Readiness Accuracy Check Site (FORACS) system Radio
Direction Finder Test System (RDFTS) is used to determine and improve the accuracy of radio
direction finder sets aboard ships. The RDFTS operates in conjunction with other FORACS
equipment and test systems. FORACS is used to measure and improve the accuracy of
shipboard navigational equipment and electromagnetic, acoustic, and optical sensors under
dynamic scenarios closely approximating operating conditions. FORACS testing provides the
ship with an assessment of actual sensor performance versus design standards, evaluates
maintenance effectiveness and degradation of performance due to aging, weather, and other
factors, and it serves to certify fleet operational readiness. The Navy also operates its SPASUR
system in this portion of the spectrum. The SPASUR system is a critical tracking sensor in the
Space Surveillance Network (SSN). The SSN maintains continuous surveillance of space and a
complete inventory of trackable Earth-orbiting objects. As the number of objects (active and
inactive satellite and debris) have grown over the years (generally at a rate of about 250 objects
per year), this space surveillance mission has become increasingly important in protecting the
safety of manned and unmanned missions into space. The SPASUR system is used to maintain a
constant surveillance of space (high-altitude, unalerted detection of Earth-orbiting satellites, and
other objects) and to provide object data for maintaining the satellite catalog, a database of orbital
trackable objects in Earth orbit. The Navy also uses spectrum within this band to support
vulnerability and electromagnetic radiation tests on ordnance, Boom Crane Audio-Visual Load
Warning System, and a weather research data link.
3.6 225 – 399.9 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-6 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-6. DoD Operations 225-399.9 MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
225-399.9 X
Voice/Data
Search and Rescue (SAR)
ATC/NAVAIDS
Command Control Link
Training Range/Center Operations
Since the 1940’s, the 225-399.9 MHz band has been preserved by most allied nations,
throughout the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), and within the individual member
countries themselves for military operations. The military nature of this band has also been
maintained by certain allied and friendly nations outside the NATO alliance such as Australia,
Israel, Japan, Korea, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, and most recently by the European
Cooperation Partners (CP) nations and the Partners for Peace (PFP) nations.
29
DoD supports a variety of missions within this band as a result of its historic availability
for military operations and the propagation benefits of the lower ultra high frequency (UHF)
range. DoD uses the 225-399.9 MHz band to maintain vital command and control (C2) and
communications on a global scale as well as within a theater of operations. Specific missions
include flight operations, tactical training, installation and sustaining base, test and training range
operations, and contingency command and control. Global C2 is supported by UHF satellite
communications (SATCOM). Theater command, control, and communications (C3) is carried
out by single and multi-channel voice and data systems supporting SATCOM, air-to-air (A/A),
air-to-ground-air (A/G/A), and ground-to-ground (G/G) operations. In addition, DoD relies on
the 225-399.9 MHz band to perform other critical missions such as air traffic control (ATC) and
search and rescue (SAR). This band also supports many non-traditional systems such as the
Joint Readiness Training Center Instrumentation System (JRTC-IS) datalink, weather buoy radio
beacons, sonobuoy, and weapons location systems. A small portion of this band (328.6-335.4
MHz) is set aside for the Glide Slope Instrument Landing System (ILS).
DoD operations supported in this spectrum band also include conventional land mobile
radio (LMR) nets and trunked radio systems in support of installation support/sustaining base,
security/law enforcement, medical, maintenance, research and development, test/training range
communications, and instrumentation support. The Navy and Marine Corps have also begun the
installation of an Enterprise-LMR (E-LMR) system that uses spectrum efficient technologies.
This system is intended to provide capabilities for linking Anti-Terrorist and Force Protection
communications between various Navy and Marine Corps Installations.
The 225-399.9 MHz band is the only available portion of the spectrum that can support
the diversity of communications required for peacetime, tactical training, and wartime operations
and can support the communications interoperability needed for joint operations involving US
and Allied/Coalition forces.
3.7 400.05 – 420 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-7 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-7. DoD Operations 400.05-420 MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
400.05-420
X
Voice/Data
LMR
Command Control Link
Meteorological Aids
Search and Rescue
DoD operations supported in this spectrum band include installation support/sustaining
base, security/law enforcement, medical, maintenance, research and development, test/training,
range communications, and instrumentation support. DoD uses both conventional land mobile
radio (LMR) nets and trunked radio systems in support of these requirements. The
30
CombatSurvivor Evader Locator (CSEL) radio system operates in this band as well as the
Army's Observer/Controller radio systems.
DoD uses this band to collect and disseminate weather data to support ATC operations
and various DoD missions. DoD also uses a portion of this band for search and rescue
operations/missions.
3.8 420 – 450 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-8 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-8. DoD Operations 420-450 MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
420-450 X
Voice/Data
LMR
EPLRS
2D Air Search
Airborne Early Warning (AEW)
Space Surveillance
EW Training
Command Control Link
DoD operations supported in this portion of the spectrum include national airspace
surveillance and early warning radars, shipborne and airborne early warning radars, remotely
piloted, unmanned air vehicle telecommand and flight termination systems, missile and rocket
flight termination equipment, and troop position and location reporting equipment. Recently, the
operations of radar equipment in this band received renewed interest when it was confirmed that
radar operations below 1000 MHz are more conducive to low-observable target detection. The
Position Location Reporting System (PLRS) and its successor, the enhanced PLRS (EPLRS), are
employed during tactical operations and exercises for three-dimensional positioning, navigation,
and friendly-force identification.
3.9 902 – 928 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-9 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
31
Table 3-9. DoD Operations 902-928 MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
902-928 X
2D Air Search
Target Acquisition
NAVAIDS
Shipboard Air Defense
Command Control Link
Test Range Operations
DoD uses this band principally for military operations and Industrial, Scientific and
Medical (ISM) systems. There are two key DoD systems that use the entire 902-928 MHz band.
One is the Navy’s primary two-dimensional shipboard air defense radar used on all aircraft
carriers, other ships, and some Navy shore installations. The other system tracks and controls
drones and other land and air vehicles at military test ranges.
3.10 932 – 935 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-10 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-10. DoD Operations 932-935 MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
932-935 X
Voice/Data
Air Defense Radar
Radiolocation
Command Control Link
The Department of Defense operations supported in this portion of the spectrum
include point-to-point and multi-point fixed microwave systems, transportable tactical
communications, radiolocation operations, utilities control, remote system controls, and
passive (receive only) systems.
This band is used by the Navy to support the Tactical Aircrew Combat Training System’s
(TACTS) electronic warfare data links. Additionally, the Navy operates search radar systems in
this portion of the spectrum. The Air Force also operates its utilities and energy control system
in this band.
3.11 941 – 944 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-11 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
32
Table 3-11. DoD Operations 941-944 MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
941-944 X
Voice/Data
Air Surveillance Radar
Command Control Link
AFRTS Audio/Visual
DoD requirements supported in this spectrum band include, point-to-point and multi-point
fixed microwave systems, transportable tactical communications, and radiolocation operations.
Navy operations supported in this band are very similar to its operations in the 932-935
MHz band. The Navy uses this band to support the Tactical Aircrew Training System
(TACTS) electronic warfare data links using the Multi-point-point 19 Communications System.
The Navy also supports the Armed Forces Radio and Television Service (AFRTS) operation in
this portion of the spectrum. The Air Force also supports operations of its utilities and energy
control system within this portion of the spectrum.
3.12 960 – 1215 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-12 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-12. DoD Operations 960-1215 MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
960-1215 X
Voice/Data
JTIDS/MIDS
Command Control Link
ATC
Secondary Surveillance Radar
TACAN
Aircraft IFF
Long Range Radar
The 960-1215 MHz band is used both nationally and internationally for aircraft
identification, tracking, control, navigation, and collision avoidance. In addition to these
operations, DoD employs this band for integrated communications, navigation, and
identification (ICNI).
The peacetime functions of radionavigation and identification equipment that operate
in this band segment are essential to Air Traffic Control (ATC) in the US National Airspace
System (NAS) and abroad. Wartime operations vary slightly from peacetime operations with
the major difference being the addition of a cooperative aircraft identification and battlefield
information distribution system.
33
DoD also supports operation of Tactical Air Navigation (TACAN) (airborne and
ground-based), Mark X and Mark XII, Identification Friend or Foe (IFF), and Secondary
Surveillance Radar (SSR) in this portion of the spectrum. TACAN ground beacons are in
operation throughout the US in support of DoD flight operations. All Mark X and XII, IFF,
and SSR operations only use 1030 and 1090 MHz. IFF/SSR-related capabilities, including
Mode S as well as the Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) operations, also
employ 1030 and 1090 MHz. DoD also operates a tactical spread spectrum datalink, the Joint
Tactical Information Distribution System (JTIDS), with Air Traffic Control and Landing
Systems (ATCALS) operations in this band.
The Navy and Marine Corps support an electronic warfare (EW) training simulator in
this band.
3.13 1215 – 1390 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-13 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-13. DoD Operations 1215-1390 MHz Band
The key DoD operations performed in this band include long and medium-range air
defense, radionavigation, test range support, and tactical fixed and mobile communications.
Government military equipment authorized to operate in this band include the following: long
and short-range air defense radar (ADR) equipment; an inter-continental ballistic missile (lCBM)
detection/surveillance radar; tactical line-of-sight (LOS) radio relay equipment; aerial unmanned
target/drone control equipment; manned and unmanned aircraft time, space, and position
reporting equipment; and satellite downlink equipment. Although they differ greatly in
application, each operation is necessary for both peacetime and wartime operations. The long
and medium-range air defense radars are used for North American border surveillance.
Radionavigation functions supported in this band include satellite-based navigational systems
and ground-based en route ATC systems. The Global Positioning System (GPS) provides
satellite-based precision radionavigation to DoD elements worldwide. Tactical communications
radio systems, used by the Army and Marine Corps also operate in this frequency band. Test
range support equipment such as the Range Applications Joint Program Office (RAJPO)
datalinks are employed during testing and training operations. Range applications systems
provide the military with the means to monitor and control drones and other air vehicles with
US&P Allocations
Frequency-
Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
1215-1390 X
Voice/Data
Command Control Link
ATC/NAVAIDS
Range & Test Operations
GPS
ICBM Detection/Surveillance Radar
Long-Medium Air Defense Radar
Training Range Operations
34
significant precision at many of the national test ranges. Shipborne systems provide point
defense and anti-missile engagement capabilities against sea skimming missiles.
The GPS provides worldwide precision navigation not only to the US military and its
allies but also to a global civilian population. GPS is a space-based radionavigation system that
is operated by the US Air Force for the US Government. The GPS system is composed of space,
control, and user segments.
The GPS Space Segment is composed of twenty-four satellites in six orbital planes. The
satellites operate in 20,200 km orbits at an inclination angle of 55° and within a twelve-hour
period. The satellites are arranged so that a minimum of five satellites are visible at any time to
users worldwide. The GPS Control Segment is composed of five monitor stations and three
ground antennas with uplink capabilities. The GPS User Segment consists of a myriad of
configurations, many of which have the antenna and receiver processor integrated with the user
platform. The User Segment computes navigation solutions to provide positioning, velocity, and
precise timing to the user.
3.14 1390 – 1710 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-14 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-14. DoD Operations 1390-1710 MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
1390-1710 X
Voice/Data
ATM
Low-Altitude Aircraft Detection
Precision Guided Munitions
Command Control Link
RDT&E
Within the 1390-1710 MHz band, the 1432-1435 MHz band has been reallocated from
primary government fixed and mobile services to commercial use in accordance with Title III of
the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 (Public Law 105-33)(BBA-97), effective January 1, 1999.
Essential federal government operations and associated airspace will be protected indefinitely at
the sites listed in Table 3-15. DoD uses this band for tactical radio relay communications,
military test range aeronautical telemetry and telecommand, and various types of guided weapon
systems.
The Air Force operates data links in the 1432-1435 MHz band to rebroadcast aircraft
position during tests and training. The associated system is deployed at all major military
aircraft and missile test centers.
The Navy uses the band for a variety of missions and functions. These include testing of
shipboard electronics, control of remotely-operated aircraft (ROA), and operation of aerostat
balloons to detect low-flying aircraft suspected of carrying drugs. In addition, the Navy operates
35
data links in the 1427-1435 MHz band to rebroadcast aircraft position during tests and training.
Other Navy data links are used to control the trajectory of live airborne munitions. This system
is deployed at major military aircraft and missile test centers.
The Army use the 1390-1710 MHz band for tactical radio relay systems in support of
proficiency training at specific Army installations. These tactical radio relay systems have broad
tuning ranges, which include the 200-400, 600-1000, and 1350-2690 MHz ranges. In addition,
the Army data links in 1350-1400 MHz and 1427-1435 MHz rebroadcast aircraft position during
tests and training.
Table 3-15.
Sites at which federal systems in the 1432-1435 MHz band will be protected indefinitely.
Location
Site
Coordinates
Protection Radius
(km)
China Lake/Edwards AFB, CA 35° 29' N 117° 16' W 100
White Sands Missile Range/Holloman
AFB, NM
32° 11' N 106° 20' W 160
Utah Test and Training Range/Dugway
Proving Ground/Hill AFB, UT
40° 57' N 113° 05' W 160
NAS Patuxent River, MD 38° 17' N 076° 24' W 70
Nellis Range, NV 37° 32' N 115° 46' W 130
Fort Huachuca, AZ 31° 33' N 110° 18' W 80
Eglin AFB, Tyndall AFB, FL/Gulfport
ANG Range, MS/Fort Rucker, AL
30° 28' N 086° 31' W 140
Yuma Proving Ground, AZ 32° 29' N 114° 20' W 160
Fort Greely, AK 63° 47' N 145° 52' W 80
Redstone Arsenal, AL 34° 35' N 086° 35' W 80
Alpene Range, MI 44° 23' N 083° 20' W 80
Camp Shelby, MS 31° 20' N 089° 18' W 80
MCAS Beaufort, SC 32° 26' N 080° 40' W 160
MCAS Cherry Point, NC 34° 54' N 076° 53' W 100
NAS Cecil Field, FL 30° 13' N 081° 53' W 160
NAS Fallon, NV 39° 30' N 118° 46' W 100
NAS Oceana, VA 36° 49' N 076° 01' W 100
NAS Whidbey Island, WA 48° 21' N 122° 39' W 70
NAS Lemoore, CA 36° 20' N 119° 57' W 120
Naval Space Operations Center, ME 44° 24' N 068° 01' W 80
Savannah River, SC 33° 15' N 081° 39' W 3
36
3.15 1710 – 1755 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-16 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-16. DoD Operations 1710-1755MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
1710-1755 Mixed
Use
Voice/Data
Data/Video Links
CIDDS
Range Telemetry
Precision Guided Munitions
Air Combat Training
DoD has historically employed the 1710-1755 MHz band to support a broad range of critical
mobile/transportable systems and a large number of installation infrastructure services. The major
operations supported in the band include transportable tactical radio relay communications, air combat
training, fixed radio relay communications, and mobile video control links. Specific systems include, but
are not limited to, Mobile Subscriber Equipment (MSE) and Digital Wideband Transmission System
(DWTS) which support tactical battlefield communications, and Precision Guided Munitions (PGMs)
systems. A detailed description of these systems is provided in the discussion of the 1755-1850 MHz
band. The 1710-1755 MHz band was previously reallocated for mixed use from Government exclusive
use. The mixed use allocation was provided for DoD operations in a primary status at 16 protected sites.
As a result of a national level effort to identify additional spectrum bands for commercial advanced
wireless services (AWS), the 16 protected sites were reduced to 2 protected sites; Yuma, AZ and Cherry
Point, NC28. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has auctioned the band. Thus, the
relocation efforts of incumbent DoD systems from the other 14 protected sites are underway. Proceeds
from the auction will be used to fund the relocation of affected federal systems as required by law. The
Marine Corps will continue operations indefinitely at the two protected sites.
3.16 1755 – 1850 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-17 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-17. DoD Operations 1755-1850 MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
1755-1850 X
Voice/Data
Data/Video Links
CIDDS
Range Telemetry
Precision Guided Munitions
Space Operations
Air Combat Training
28 An Assessment of the Viability of Accommodating Advanced Mobile Wireless (3G) Systems in the 1710-1770 MHz and 2110-
2170 MHz Bands, National Telecommunications and Information Administration, July 22, 2002.
37
DoD employs the 1755-1850 MHz band to support a broad range of critical
mobile/transportable systems and a large number of installation infrastructure services, as well as
advanced wireless systems in development. The major operations supported in the band include
Tracking, Telemetry, and Commanding (TT&C) of DoD space systems, transportable tactical
radio relay communications, air combat training, fixed radio relay communications, and mobile
video control links. Specific systems include, but are not limited to, the Space Ground Link
Subsystem (SGLS) which provides spacecraft TT&C, which support tactical battlefield
communications, the Air Combat Training Systems (ACTS) used to support air combat training,
and Precision Guided Munitions (PGMs) systems. The major DoD systems that operate in this
band are described below in detail. DoD also operates numerous other systems in this band that
are critical to global operations in addition to test and training functions.
Satellite Operations (SATOPS)
DoD uses this band as the only communications link for initial contact with newly
launched satellites, for early orbit checkout of those satellites and for emergency access to
spinning/tumbling satellites. It is also vital for command and control, mission data retrieval, and
on-orbit maneuvering of its many satellites in all orbits from low earth to geostationary. SGLS,
the primary component of this network, provides continuous, worldwide, command and control
of satellites used for missile warning, navigation, military communications, weather tracking and
reporting, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR). The information provided by
these satellites to our National Command Authority, Combatant Commanders, Military Services,
and national level decision-makers is crucial to successful execution of our national strategies.
Additionally, other federal government agencies, such as the Federal Aviation Administration
(FAA), the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the Federal Emergency
Management Agency, state and local governments and the commercial sector benefit from the
capabilities of the satellites controlled by this network.
Tactical Radio Relay Systems
The Army, Navy, and Marine Corps operate tactical communications systems in this
frequency band that provide high capacity, digital information to the battlefield. The Army
operates the Mobile Subscriber Equipment (MSE) system in this band. The MSE system is
deployed from the corps-level headquarters to the maneuver battalions. These systems provide a
digital microwave backbone to link mid-level and lower-level battlefield commanders. The
system operates like a high-capacity cellular telephone system with highly transportable base
stations. A corps-size deployment could deploy twelve or more microwave links depending on
the operational or exercise scenario. From command and control traffic to intelligence imagery,
logistics, medical, and morale and welfare support, MSE provides the battlefield commanders
the ability to maintain effective control over forces. MSE is a tactical system designed for rapid
mobility in the field. This is because headquarters units, with signature electronic emissions, are
targeted for artillery and missile attacks by the enemy. The ability to set up, establish a link to
higher headquarters and subordinate units and then take the link down and move is key to the
survivability of the headquarter units and supports the concept of maneuver warfare. The
microwave radio equipment and antennas are transportable and robust for field conditions. To
38
maintain the operator’s capability to quickly establish a tactical microwave link, continuous field
training is required.
The Navy and Marine Corps operate the Digital Wideband Transmission System
(DWTS) in this band. The Navy/Marine Corps DWTS provides a backbone digital
communications capability supporting amphibious operations and ground combat operations.
The system supports command, control and data transfer from the Marine Expeditionary Force
(MEF) level down to the regimental level. The Marine Corps element of this radio system
providing digital backbone services (voice, video, and data). This link is the only transmission
media available to the Marine Corps with sufficient bandwidth to carry large quantities of critical
data such as maps, overlays, intelligence pictures, and other data to the battlefield commanders.
The Navy has a ship-to-shore link of DWTS primarily used for amphibious operations where
most of the critical information flow is from the ship to the landing forces. Like MSE, DWTS is
a tactical system designed to enable microwave links to be quickly established in support of
combat operations and maneuver warfare.
Air Combat Training Systems (ACTS)
The Tactical Air Combat Training System/Aircrew Combat Maneuvering and
Instrumentation (TACTS/ACMI) is a complex system of hardware and software components
configured and interfaced to measure, monitor, process, communicate, store, and display weapon
and aircraft information in real-time to provide realistic training for tactical aircrews. The US
Air Force uses ACMI while TACTS supports the US Navy and Marine Corps. TACTS/ACMI is
comprised of airborne and ground-based components linked through RF communications and
operates within many prescribed training ranges in the US. The TACTS/ACMI supports training
aircrews in realistic warfighting scenarios. It supports simultaneous engagement of multiple air
combat participants in state-of-the-art air-to-air, air-to-ground, ground-to-air, and electronic
warfare (EW) environments. The system provides real-time monitoring, tracking and recording
of the training activities and includes post mission reconstruction capabilities so that crews can
receive accurate debriefing and critique of their mission thereby maximizing the benefit of the
training activities. The system provides aircrew training such as Aircraft Handling Capability,
Basic Fighter Maneuver, or Intercept and Air Combat Training sorties up to and including large
composite force training. TACTS/ACMI is the primary tool at virtually all air combat training
ranges and supports every level of training from initial schools where pilots first learn to fly the
aircraft they will take into battle to advanced tactics training schools that hone combat skills. To
ensure interoperability, training sorties are conducted with Allied Forces, both inside and outside
of the US.
Tactical Control Links/Precision Guided Munitions
Tactical Control Links that support Precision Guided Munitions (PGM) provide a
decisive combat edge to US forces. These weapons provide the capability to attack single targets
with one aircraft or one standoff weapon. PGMs increase aircrew survivability by allowing the
launch of weapons outside of any enemy anti-air system threat envelope, thereby significantly
decreasing aircrew vulnerability. PGMs require regular testing and training at CONUS sites by
operational units to maintain operational readiness. Developmental activities also require regular
testing as the PGMs are updated for new missions, threats, and capabilities.
39
Other Systems
The operations of a number of additional DoD systems rely on spectrum between 1755
and 1850 MHz in addition to those of the four major DoD functional capabilities described
above. Long-range point-to-point microwave system operations represent a majority of these
additional systems. These systems primarily operate at fixed locations and employ directional
antennas. A number of other mobile operations are also authorized in this band. Two mobile
systems, the Combat Identification for the Dismounted Soldier (CIDDS) and the Land Warrior
Local Area Network (LAN), are developmental systems whose operations also are dependent on
spectrum in this band segment. Land Warrior is a first-generation integrated fighting system for
dismounted soldiers. A number of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) are authorized to operate in
this band. These systems transmit video and status data from the UAS to the ground control
system (GCS) using analog FM video and data on subcarriers. Fixed point-to-point microwave,
CIDDS, the Land Warrior LAN, and UASs represent significant other uses of the 1755 to 1850
MHz band.
The Army Corps of Engineers (ACE) operates a nation-wide system of fixed point-topoint
microwave links providing connectivity for monitoring water levels, remote alarms, and
communications for remote locks, dams, and other water systems. These systems provide
microwave links where no commercial communications connectivity exists. The systems are
essential to the ACE operations because they allow for remote monitoring of critical waterway
operations negating the need for full time, on-site personnel. The systems provide key
maintenance parameters, alarm indications, and provide personnel at the facility with
communications capability. These systems help ensure the safety and integrity of the nation’s
waterways and help prevent catastrophic events that could cost lives and economic damage as
well as environmental damage.
The Land Warrior system is a close combat communications system for infantrymen,
combat medics, combat engineers, forward observers, and scouts. With Land Warrior, the
soldier can both send and receive voice, video images, map overlay information, operational plan
diagrams, etc. The system provides situational awareness information among team members,
improves survivability and increases mission effectiveness while reducing the soldier’s
equipment load.
The Combat Identification of the Dismounted Solder (CIDDS) program’s purpose is to
help prevent US forces from firing on friendly forces, otherwise known as fratricide. CIDDS
employs a laser interrogator with a RF response to provide identification of friendly forces by
individual and automatic weapons users. The laser interrogation signal message identifies a set
of random frequency channels, spaced throughout the 1755-1850 MHz band for the transponder
to use in its response. Current program documentation indicates approximately 100,000 CIDDS
units will be procured to outfit dismounted soldiers in all three military services.
The Pointer UAS is a production-ready, electric, hand-launched UAS designed for
remote monitoring and surveillance. The UAS transmits real-time images taken by a black and
white, color, or thermal camera. A variety of alternative payloads such as air pollution sensing,
40
chemical weapons detection, and unexploded land mine detections are currently being
developed. The video link operates in the 1755-1850 MHz frequency band.
The Aberdeen Test Center (ATC) Range telemetry System provides a multi-link radio
telemetry communication capability throughout the many test ranges and facilities of the ATC.
It consists of several fixed receiving stations located at the high usage ranges/test areas and many
transportable (vehicle housed) receiving stations that are emplaced at any of the multitude of
ATC test areas or remote test sites when required to support testing projects. The test mission
and workload of the ATC requires daily support by the telemetry system. It is vital to the
accomplishment of the test and evaluation of military equipment, primarily combat and tactical
vehicles, and many items of support equipment. Testing under dynamic conditions is a
requirement, and the telemetry system provides the capability to transfer engineering
measurements from the moving vehicle to a data collection center.
The Air Force Television Ordnance Scoring System (TOSS) provides a television
ordinance scoring capability to range users in support of exercise and test missions. TOSS is a
field proven accurate weapons scoring system with a night scoring capability using infrared
cameras.
3.17 2200 – 2290 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-18 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-18. DoD Operations 2200-2290 MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
2200-2290 X
SGLS
Telemetry
TeleCommand Control Link
DoD operations supported in this band include tracking, telemetry and commanding
(TT&C) of space systems and launch vehicles, and missile telemetry. The 2200-2290 MHz band
supports the companion downlink to the Space Ground Link Subsystem (SGLS) uplink in the
1755-1850 MHz band. This is the most critical DoD operation supported in this band, and one
of the most critical DoD uses of all spectrum. SGLS functions include tracking launch and space
vehicles, telemetry (downlink) from both launch and space vehicles, and command operations.
The space resources supported by SGLS are not only DoD's most expensive system of spectrumdependent
resources, but they serve as vital national sources of operational communications and
surveillance data as well. The band is also used extensively for telemetry. Air- to-air and air-tosurface
missiles cannot be tested without aeronautical telemetry. The 2200-2290 MHz band is
the only band wherein adequate, properly allocated spectrum can be found to launch, operate,
and control DoD space resources.
41
3.18 2290 – 2700 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-19 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-19. DoD Operations 2290-2700 MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
2290-2700 X
Voice/Data
ATM
SATCOM
Tactical Communications
Wireless LAN’s
Radar Test & Simulation
Antenna Experimentation
Deep Space Surveillance
RDT&E
DoD operations supported in this portion of the spectrum include telemetry for aircraft
and missile flight testing, deep space observation, rocket and missile launch monitoring,
satellite communications, galactic and extragalactic radio astronomy, microwave
communications, and the operation of simulators during combat aircrew training for surface-toair
missile operations. Additional DoD operations supported in this band include military radar
tests and enemy radar simulations; scoring of air-to-air missiles against drone targets; antenna
experimentation; and certification of defense navigation systems. The Air Force and Navy also
use this band for target identification and certification of navigation systems at high speeds.
The Army uses the 2400-2483 MHz portion of this band for tactical communications and for
Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs).
3.19 2700 – 2900 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-20 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-20. DoD Operations 2700-2900 MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
2700-2900 X
ATC
Range ATC
Weather Surveillance Radar
The primary DoD operations performed in this band include airport surveillance radar,
ground control approach (GCA) radar, and weather surveillance radar. The operations of all
three of these classes of equipment are essential for aviation safety.
ATC and GCA equipments are employed for terminal air guidance within sixty miles of
military airports. The purpose is to detect aircraft within a specified radius of an airport
42
terminaland to provide accurate real-time azimuth and range information to the airport air traffic
controllers.
Weather radar equipments are deployed throughout the continental US (CONUS) by
military and non-military organizations to monitor current weather conditions and collect data
that is used to develop local and regional weather forecasts. These weather radars support
weather surveillance and storm prediction throughout CONUS.
The unifying purpose of the functions supported in this band is safety-of-life. Aerial
targets, drones, missiles, aerostats, and aircraft must be monitored continuously during flight to
minimize potential loss of life due to controller error, weather anomaly, or equipment failure.
Range air traffic controllers must manage the flight patterns of aircraft within respective
airspace, or collisions between aircraft may result. Test range procedures mandate that airborne
equipment under test be monitored continuously and with precision to ensure range safety.
3.20 2900 – 3100 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-21 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-21. DoD Operations 2900-3100 MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
2900-3100 X
Voice/Data
Distance Measuring Equipment
ATC/NAVAIDS
3D Surveillance Radar
Air/Surface Search & Navigation
Radar
The 2900-3100 MHz band is used nationally for three-dimensional long-range
surveillance precision approach, shipborne radionavigation, and air traffic control (ATC). In
accordance with safety requirements outlined by international treaty, this band is also used for
maritime radionavigation on an international basis. In addition to military operations
supporting long-range surveillance, precision approach, and ATC, the military uses this band
to support threat simulator and experimental test operations.
Army operations in this portion of the spectrum are used to support the operations of
aeronautical radionavigation, surveillance radar and RDT&E activities. Additionally, Army
operates Land and Mobile Radiolocation service operations of Distance Measuring Equipment
(DME) and navigational aid controls. Variants of the Conic DM-40 and DM-43 are used by the
Army Corps of Engineers at dams and locks on US rivers and waterways in support of
navigation.
The Navy uses this band to support coastal, dockside and sea trial operations for crew
training. The Navy also supports the operation of height-finding radar and high-accuracy
positioning of sea and airborne targets. The operation of sea surface surveillance radar at test
facilities is also supported in this band.
43
The Air Force operates surveillance radars in this portion of the spectrum for air
control operations, navigational aids, training, and test range support.
3.21 3100 – 3600 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-22 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-22. DoD Operations 3100-3600 MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
3100-3600 X
Command Control Link
Counter Battery Fire Radar
Search, Track & Missile Direction
Navigation & Collision Avoidance
Carrier-Controlled Surveillance
Airborne Early Warning (AEW)
Radar Altimeters
Tactical Air Defense Surveillance
Telemetry
The major functions of DoD systems operating in this frequency range are airborne and
shipboard air surveillance, artillery location, aircraft station keeping, and missile data links.
DoD uses the 3100-3600 MHz band primarily for mobile radar and missile link operations.
There are several operational mobile radars in the band, and they are among the most important
DoD tactical radars in use today. These radars have a primary mission of detection and tracking
air targets for airborne early warning.
The Navy uses the 3100-3600 MHz band for a major Shipborne radar system. DoD also
plans to develop and deploy the Navy’s new volume search radar, operating in the 2-4 GHz
band, on the next generation destroyers.
DoD operates a radar used for specialized surveillance and identification and control.
The radar operates in the 2-4 GHz part of the spectrum.
Other DoD radar applications in this band include an Army mobile counter-battery radar
that supports Field Artillery. The radar detects and tracks in-flight projectiles, providing the
location of the firing unit or battery and projectile impact. There are also shipborne air traffic
control radar systems used for aircraft marshaling. In addition, the Air Force uses a radar system
in this band on Air Force C-130s and C-141s to perform station-keeping operations during
formation flying. These units display the locations of each aircraft in formation, allow trackwhile-
scan, and exchange maneuver messages between equipped aircraft. Another system is a
ground-based zone marker used during parachute drops.
44
3.22 4200 – 4400 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-23 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-23. DoD Operations 4200-4400 MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
4200-4400 X Radar Altimeters
NAVAIDS
RDT&E
The 4200-4400 MHz band is used both nationally and internationally for aircraft radar
altimetry. Radar altimetry operations are essential during instrumented take-off and landing of
aircraft and during instrumented flight. The altimetry data provided while en route is also
essential for instrumented navigation.
The 4200-4400 MHz band is used extensively to support radar altimeter operations on
both fixed and rotary-wing aircraft. DoD has approximately 17,000 aircraft in inventory of
which more than 15,000 are instrumented with one or more radar altimeters. Radar altimeters
are also employed on some missile variants, drone aircraft, and UASs. Because of thecapability
to achieve increased precision and accuracy at altitudes less than 1,000 feet, they are often used
to supply height-controlling commands in automatic approach and landing systems as well as
ground proximity warning systems and weapons delivery systems. Most radar altimeters are
designed to provide altitude data from ground level to a height of 5,000 feet above ground level;
although, several systems currently deployed provide altitude data up to 70,000 feet above
ground level.
In addition to the Army’s approximately 5,900 aircraft that are instrumented with radar
altimeters, the Army also supports RDT&E operations in this portion of the spectrum.
The Navy radar altimeter operations support Tomahawk cruise missile tests and Tactical
Aircrew Combat Training System (TACTS) operations. Altimeter RDT&E is also performed by
the Navy in this portion of the spectrum. The Navy and Marine Corps have approximately 4,800
aircraft that are instrumented with radar altimeters.
The Air Force operations in this portion of the spectrum include radar altimeter
operations and some regionalized test operations involving cruise missiles and drone aircraft.
Radar altimeters are primarily used as navigational aids. The Air Force has approximately 6,200
aircraft that are instrumented with radar altimeters. The Air Force Global Hawk UAS carries
radar altimeters whose operations depend on the 4200-4400 MHz band for precision altitude
information during takeoff and landing. Global Hawk is a high-altitude endurance UAS
designed to loiter above a region and provide ground commanders with radar, visible, and
infrared imagery.
45
3.23 4400 – 4990 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-24 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-24. DoD Operations 4400-4900 MHz Band
The major functions of DoD systems operating in this frequency range are point-to-point
communications, data links supporting exchange of weapons sensor data, and telemetry and
command links for weapons and range systems.
DoD uses this band to satisfy many of the requirements for high capacity, multi-channel,
point-to-point communications. These systems may be either digital or analog. There are
thousands of frequency assignments for both fixed and transportable communications systems in
this band supporting all of the Military Services as well as National Guard units. Many of the
transportable units are used to affect tri-service tactical area communications. CONUS
operations of these systems are almost entirely for training. US forces when deployed use these
radios extensively. This band supports the operations of many fixed and transportable line-ofsight
and trans-horizon radio-relay systems. It should be noted that systems with a trans-horizon
mode have comparatively high-powered transmitters and use the phenomenon of tropospheric
scattering to communicate at distances up to 400 km. The point-to-point, line-of-sight, and
troposcatter communications systems in this band transfer voice, video, and data between
individual end-users. These systems support tactical as well as training and administrative
operations.
The Navy operates a system in this portion of the spectrum to transfer LAMPS MK III
helicopter ASW sensor data to shipboard data terminals for aerial platforms. Helicopter radar
and ESM data can also be transferred over the link. The Navy also operates its Cooperative
Engagement Capability in this band. The mission of Cooperative Engagement Capability is to
form a timely and highly accurate distributed AAW picture and to share fire control radar track
data between individual units in the net to establish a common, composite track database that can
be utilized by each unit to conduct weapons engagements.
DoD also uses this band to support datalinks and video links for several different
Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) (Pioneer, Shadow, and Camcopter). The primary mission of
UAS data links is to provide information gathered by sensors onboard various unmanned aerial
vehicles to ground control stations and to control UAS operations. The UAS links in this band
are line-of-sight only; other frequency bands support additional UAS links.
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
4400-4900 X
Voice/Data
Command Control Link
UAS Video Links
Weapon Systems Telemetry
Weapon System Sensor Datalink
CEC
46
3.24 5000 – 5250 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-25 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-25. DoD Operations 5000-5250 MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
5000-5250 X ATC
The key DoD system operating in this band is the Air Force Mobile Microwave
Landing System (MMLS). This system is a tactical military precision approach and landing
system that is compatible with civil Microwave Landing System (MLS ), military airborne
and fixed aeronautical radionavigation MLS/ILS (Instrument Landing System), tactical air
navigation, and Distance Measuring Equipment (DME) systems.
Army operation in this spectrum band is limited. The only Army system identified is
a Proximity Warning Device.
The Navy makes very limited use of this band and currently only operates a signal
generator for special projects.
3.25 5250 – 5350 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-26 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-26. DoD Operations 5250-5350 MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
5250-5350 X
Telemetry Video/Data Links
Mobile Air Defense Radar
Surveillance & Tracking Radar
Radar RDT&E
UAS Datalinks
The primary DoD operations supported in this portion of the spectrum are mobile air
defense radars, surveillance and tracking radars, and telemetry (video or data) links.
The Army currently has the only operational radar system in the band, the PATRIOT
radar. While this is the only DoD radar system currently operating in this band, it is one of
DoD's most important land-based radars. Additionally, the Navy is exploring wideband
operations for a next-generation shipboard radar. These multi-function radars are specifically
designed, or being designed, to simultaneously detect and track tens to hundreds of military
targets and respond to threats in enough time to establish defensive measures.
47
The Pioneer Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) has an alternate video and telemetry link
that operates in this band. Additional UAS links for the Predator and Hunter Joint Tactical UAV
(JTUAV) have also been developed in this band. In the mid-term these UAS links are projected
to migrate to other bands.
3.26 5350 – 5650 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-27 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-27. DoD Operations 5350-5650 MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
5350-5650 X
Missile & Fire-Control
Sea Surface Search/Navigation
Mobile Air Defense
Test Range Instrumentation
Range Tracking Radars
UAS Datalinks
The principal DoD operations supported in this band are mobile air defense radars,
weather radar, surface search/navigation radars, missile and gun fire control functions, test
range instrumentation, and telemetry operations. Anti-Air Warfare (AAW) radars operate in
this band as part of an advanced, ground-based air defense missile system.
The 5350-5650 MHz band supports the operation of a variety of test range radars and
transponders. Most of these radars operate over a tuning range of 5400-5900 MHz. These
systems are used at a number of DoD test and training ranges and missile test launch facilities
located across the continental US and Hawaii.
DoD also uses this band for UAS datalink transmissions. This function is performed on
a non-interference basis. The Pioneer UAS has a primary radio frequency downlink at 4 GHz.
The downlink data may be video, infrared sensor, or telemetry data. The Predator UAS
communications between ground elements and this UAS take place in the 5250-5850 MHz
frequency range in one line-of-sight mode. Alternate downlink data transmissions take place in
the lower segment of this band (5350-5450 MHz) and uplink communications take place over the
entire band.
3.27 5650-5850 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-28 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
48
Table 3-28. DoD Operations 5650-5850 MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
5650-5850 X
Missile & Fire-Control
Air/Surface Surveillance
Target Acquisition
Range Tracking Radars
UAS Telemetry
Data/Video Links
The major DoD operations supported in this spectrum band are air surveillance, target
tracking, range tracking, missile data links, UAS telemetry, and video links. While other radar
bands do support simultaneous search and track radars, only the 3 GHz and 5 GHz radar bands
permit the development of military radars that have small enough antenna apertures to be mobile
systems. They also provide great enough range capabilities to serve as medium range radars.
This critical characteristic has resulted in the development of extremely high value military
radars in this band. These multi-function radars are specifically designed to concurrently detect
and track hundreds of military targets and respond to threats in time to establish defensive
measures.
3.28 5850 – 5925 MHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-29 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-29. DoD Operations 5850-5925 MHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
5850-5925 X
Range Tracking Radar
Beacon Transponder
Voice/Video/Data
DoD operations supported in this band include instrumentation support, tracking radars,
and beacon transponder operations on DoD test ranges.
Instrumentation and range tracking radars are used to support the testing of missiles,
aircraft, and rockets. Additionally, beacon transponders, which operate over the 5400-5900
MHz frequency range, use a portion of this band. Beacon transponders are installed onboard
missiles and other test objects to enhance radar tracking of the test objects. This tracking is
accomplished through the interrogation of the beacon by the tracking radar and a response from
the transponder.
Army systems in this band include range tracking radars and beacon transponders, which
are used on several test ranges within the continental US. The Army also supports the
Transportable Trojan Spirit II Satellite Communications Terminal in this band.
49
The Navy operates range tracking radars and beacon transponders in this portion of the
spectrum. These systems are used for training and special operations. Additionally, the Air
Force supports operation of an instrumentation radar and radar testing signal generators in this
band of spectrum. Other Air Force systems operating in this band are used to track radar
transponders.
3.29 7.125 – 8.450 GHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-30 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-30. DoD Operations 7.125-8.450 GHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
7.125-8.450 X
Voice/Data
Command Control Link
ATC
Air & Sea Surveillance
Target Acquisition
Low-Altitude Aircraft Detection
Weapon System IFF
Transponders
DoD operations in this portion of the spectrum include air traffic control (ATC),
administrative point-to-point communications, RDT&E support, and satellite communications.
The point-to-point circuits are used to support numerous functions such as test and training
range video, specialized air defense, and Presidential support as well as test and training range
safety, control, simulators, and target scoring. Other operations consist of data transfer for
training systems such as the Tactical Air Combat Training System (TACTS), Air Combat
Maneuvering and Instrumentation (ACMI) systems, and electronic warfare training. The band is
also critical for DoD global satellite communications support.
The Army uses this spectrum for point-to-point communications using DoD satellites
RDT&E support and range operations (target scoring). The Navy’s use of this band includes
ATC, radar data transfer, maintenance and calibration, and remote studio links. Air Force
operations include satellite communications on DoD satellites, ATC, and other training
applications.
3.30 8.5 – 9.0 GHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary
Table 3-31 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
50
Table 3-31. DoD Operations 8.5-9 GHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
8.5-9.0 X
Voice/Data
Command Control Link
ATC
Navigation & Collision Avoidance
Acquisition & Tracking
Missile & Fire-Control
Submarine Surface
Navigational/Search
Aircraft Control Approach
Maritime Surveillance
Helicopter Search
Multi-mode Fire-Control
ASW Search
Multi-mode Airborne Radar
Navigation & Mapping
Terrain Following/Avoidance
SAR & Moving Target Indicator
(MTI)
Radar Altimeters
Search, Rescue & Weather
Avoidance
Portable Ground Surveillance
Long-Range Theatre Ballistic
Missile Detection
The 8.5 - 9.0 GHz band is used primarily by DoD to support fixed, mobile, and
transportable operations of target acquisition and target tracking radar systems. This band is
used by DoD to support RDT&E operations on national and military test ranges. Experimental
operations are included in this band but on a non-interference basis (NIB).
The Army’s typical use of this band is for Distance Measuring Equipment in support of
Army Corps of Engineers operations. The Army operates a rendezvous beacon transponder,
which is used on helicopters. Similar equipment is also employed by the Air Force, and its
operation is functionally equivalent to that of numerous other beacons fielded by the Air Force
and Navy. Key equipment operated by the Navy in this band includes engagement radars whose
operations support ship-borne gunnery and missile fire control for both offensive and defensive
purposes, airborne surveillance radar, submarine surveillance and navigation radar and
rendezvous beacon equipment. The primary Air Force capabilities include rendezvous beacon
radar equipment, aircraft-based Doppler navigation radar equipment, test range bomb scoring
equipment, target acquisition radar equipment, and test range support equipment. Rendezvous
beacon equipment is employed on aircraft to extend the range of surface-borne tracking radars
during test and training exercises. Bomb scoring equipment is employed from ground-based
locations to score the performance of pilots during training exercises. Target acquisition radar
equipment would typically be used to engage and target enemy aircraft during tactical
operations. These operations are vital to successful flight and surveillance of military aircraft as
well as testing and training exercises.
51
3.31 9.5 – 10.45 GHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-32 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-32. DoD Operations 9.5-10.45 GHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
9.5-10.45 X
Navigation & Collision Avoidance
Acquisition & Tracking
Missile & Fire-Control
Submarine Surface Nav/Search
Aircraft Control Approach
Maritime Surveillance
Helicopter Search
Multi-mode Fire-Control
ASW Search
Multi-mode Airborne Radar
Multi-mode Weapon Control
Navigation & Mapping
Terrain Following/Avoidance
SAR & Moving Target Indicator
(MTI)
Search, Rescue & Weather
Avoidance
Portable Ground Surveillance
Long-Range Theatre Ballistic
Missile Detection
DoD operations in the 9.5 to 10.45 GHz band include tactical radar operations onboard
ships and aircraft, navigational aids (NAVAIDS) operations, RDT&E support, and test-range
simulator operations. DoD also supports additional capabilities such as electronic warfare (EW)
training, test-range simulator operations, and calibration.
Army operations include multiple ground-based radars for test and training and the
operation of ground-based sensors. The Army also supports test and training with target
acquisition radar, high-power illuminator radar, and a counter fire radar system. Additional
capabilities/requirements supported in this band include precision acquisition radar operations at
Army airfields, operation of tracking radars, rendezvous beacons, and meteorological (balloontracking)
radars at many of the Army ranges. Key Army capabilities/requirements are artillery,
rocket, and mortar locating radar including tracking radar system employed to detect and track
up to 50 fast and slow-moving, fixed- or rotary-wing aircraft as well as UASs. Navy operations
include Ship-borne navigation, surface and airspace search radar systems, and fire control
systems. Additional one-of-a-kind equipment supported by the Navy, in this band, includes the
cloud physics research radar and distance measurement equipment. The Navy also supports their
Fleet Operational Readiness Accuracy Check Site (FORACS) ship-borne equipment calibration
operations, simulator electronic warfare, and electronic countermeasure operations in this band
on a non-interference basis. Characteristic Navy equipment are fire control and targeting radar
systems. These interoperate with precision munitions like the Advanced Medium Air-to-Air
Missile System (AMRAAM). The Air Force supports the contingency airborne reconnaissance
system (CARS) datalink for both manned and unmanned aeronautical vehicles. It can be flown
52
on manned aircraft as well as UASs, such as the Global Hawk. The Air Force also supports fire
control radar equipment, aircraft transponder systems, synthetic aperture radar, and battlefield
surveillance radar within this band. Examples of test, training, and simulation capabilities
supported in this band are enemy surface-to-air missile (SAM) simulation, anti-aircraft artillery
(AAA) simulation, electronic warfare, and radar bomb scoring performance evaluation systems
at numerous Air Force test ranges. Airborne fire control equipment is employed on several
thousand Air Force fighter and bomber aircraft. Fire control radar is employed for air-to-air
combat and air-to-surface attack. The Air Force also supports the operation of airborne, allweather
ground surveillance radar that is designed to locate and track slow moving and
stationary ground-based vehicles, such as tanks.
3.32 14.5 – 15.35 GHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-33 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-33. DoD Operations 14.5-15.35 GHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
14.5 –15.35 X
Voice/Data
Command Control Link
ATC
Air & Sea Surveillance
Target Acquisition
Low-Altitude Aircraft Detection
Transponders
DoD operations in the 14.5 to 15.35 GHz portion of the spectrum include point-to-point
and multi-point fixed communications, transportable tactical communications, electronic warfare
(EW) training, and test range operations. The military Services use frequencies in this portion of
the spectrum to support several key systems for point-to-point and multi-point microwave and
remote sensor applications. Additionally, several types of threat emitters and simulators tune
through this band and are used for Electronic Warfare (EW) exercises and training. Several
transportable tactical systems tune within this band and are employed at numerous locations for
exercises and training.
Point-to-point microwave communications is a major Army capability supported in the
14.5 to 15.35 GHz band. These operations support video, data, and audio requirements at test
ranges throughout the US and at selected locations worldwide. The Army conducts training on
MSE and “down-the-hill” radios and TERRACOM 608B training at numerous locations within
the US and Possessions (US&P). Several Army installations also use an Air Defense Threat
Simulator to conduct helicopter pilot training. The Navy uses this band for support of EW
training using a family of threat emitters and simulators. The Navy’s Fleet Operational
Readiness Accuracy Check Site (FORACS), fixed microwave systems, and an Intrusion
Detection System also operate in this band. Similar to the Navy, the Air Force supports EW
training using a family of threat emitters and simulators operating in this band as well as fixed
53
microwave links supporting test range operations, remote feeds for air traffic control radar data,
and video/audio links.
3.33 15.7 – 17.3 GHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-34 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-34. DoD Operations 15.7-17.3 GHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
15.7-17.3 X
Command Control Link
NAVAIDS
Multi-mode Airborne Radar
Fire-Control
Navigation & Mapping
Terrain Following/Avoidance
RDT&E
PGM
DoD operations/requirements supported in the 15.7-17.3 GHz band include: airborne
terrain-following and forward-looking radars, RDT&E of missile guidance and target-tracking
radars, experimental operations and calibration of sensors, and navigational equipment.
Additional DoD operations supported in this band include airborne tactical radar training
operations, navigational aids (NAVAIDS) operations, NAVAIDS RDT&E support, test-range
simulator operations, and sensor calibrations. Some individual military Service applications are
discussed below.
The Army uses this portion of the spectrum for ground-based radar equipment
training, RDT&E operations, portable combat surveillance radar equipment, and
mortar/artillery fire locating radar for training. The Army also operates a White Sands
Missile Range (WSMR) tracking radar and muzzle velocity radar measurement equipment in
this portion of the spectrum. The Army also supports operation of a radar cross section
measurement range to evaluate refinements to the Radar Advanced Measurement and Target
Scatter System (RATSCAT).
Other DoD systems operating in this band include the UAS Tactical Endurance
Synthetic Aperture Radar (TESAR), Grisly Hunter demonstration radar, and the UAS Small
Tactical Synthetic Aperture Radar (STACSAR). The Navy operations supported in this band
include equipment associated with a Missile Defense System, operations of the LANTIRN
Terrain Following Radar (TFR), and ground-based operations of a weapons delivery and
drop-zone marking system. Similar to the Army, the Marine Corps operates mortar/artillery
fire locating radar for training in this band. Additional Navy operations supported in this
band include a six-system net of projectile velocimeter equipment for RDT&E purposes, the
Navy’s ship-borne fire control systems, an airborne navigation/bombing system, and an
additional terrain following radar system. The Air Force operations supported in the 15.7 to
17.3 GHz band include a forward-looking, multi-mode radar on the MH-53J Pave Low III
54
helicopter, RDT&E support operations of the Airborne Real-Time Information System
(ARTIS) transponder, and another transponder employed by the Air Force Special
Operations Command for special tactics team training. Other Air Force operations /
capabilities supported in the 15.7 to 17.3 GHz band include the LANTIRN Terrain Following
Radar (TFR), and a multi-mode radar installed on C-130 Combat Talon II aircraft. The Air
Force also supports fix-tuned training and simulator operations requirements for the Roland
Missile guidance command link, tracking radar, and beacon system in this band as well as
fire control and additional forward-looking terrain-following radar equipment.
3.34 20.2 – 21.2 GHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
This band is generally addressed in section 4.4.
3.35 24.05 – 24.25 GHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-35 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-35. DoD Operations 24.05-24.25 GHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
24.05-24.25 X
RDT&E
T&E
Sensor
Vehicle Speed Detection
DoD primarily supports law enforcement operations in the 24.05-24.25 GHz band.
Additional operations or capabilities supported in this band include operations at a radar crosssection
(RCS) measurement facility, experimental operations for ship-borne calibration,
intrusion detection, and antenna performance measurement equipment.
The Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force use this portion of the spectrum to
support law enforcement operations. The Army also supports RDT&E and the operations of the
K-Band Doppler Transceiver, which is the motion detection component of the Mobile Detection
Assessment Response System-Interior (MDARS-I). In addition to law enforcement operations,
the Navy also supports the operation of their FORACS system in this band. The Air Force
operates a RCS measurement facility at White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) in this portion of
the spectrum as well as a Signal Generator used to measure out-of-band aircraft antenna
performance. The Air Force also supports operations of a Relocatable Sensor System (RSS)
employed for unattended perimeter security.
55
3.36 25.25 – 25.5 GHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-36 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-36. DoD Operations 25.25-25.5 GHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
25.25-25.5 X T&E
RDT&E
DoD uses this band primarily for experimental work with the Navy FORACS program
and for the Air Force Radar Cross Section Measurement System. Specific uses include antenna
testing, radar cross-section determination, and fleet readiness testing.
3.37 25.5 – 27.0 GHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-37 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-37. DoD Operations 25.5-27.0 GHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
25.5-27.0 X
Voice/Video/Data
Range Opns
T&E
WBS
DoD operations supported in this band include antenna testing, radar cross-section
determination, fleet readiness testing, and test range operations.
The Army operates point-to-point microwave communication links supporting test range
operations in the band. The Navy operates portions of its FORACS program in this band. As
well, the Air Force supports the development and evaluation of aircraft antennas in this portion
of the spectrumalong with its Radar Cross Section Measurement Systemand is developing a
Wireless Broadband System (WBS) in this band. WBS is a two-way voice, video, and data
distribution network for use at air bases.
3.38 27 – 27.5 GHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage Summary
Table 3-38 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
56
Table 3-38. DoD Operations 27-27.5 GHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
27-27.5 X RDT&E
DoD operations in this band are very limited. The operations supported include
experimentation and proof of concept testing of millimeter wave links, development and
evaluation of aircraft antennas, and fleet readiness testing.
DoD uses this band primarily for experimental work with the Navy FORACS program,
the Air Force Radar Cross Section Measurement System, and developing and performing proof
of concept demonstrations of a millimeter wave link.
3.39 30.0 – 31.0 GHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
This band is generally addressed in Section 4.4.
3.40 33.4 – 36.0 GHz Band: Mission, Functions, and Usage
Summary
Table 3-39 depicts the major DoD application/operations supported in this spectrum band.
Table 3-39. DoD Operations 33.4-36.0 GHz Band
US&P Allocations
Frequency-Band
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application
33.4-36.0 X
MMW Radar
Cloud Detection Radar
Weather Surveillance Radar
Space Surveillance
PIRS Radar
The 33.4 to 36.0 GHz band is primarily used by DoD for supporting RDT&E operations.
Specific RDT&E functions include radar cross-section (RCS) measurement, spectral imaging, reentry
vehicle splash detection, cloud surveillance, and simulation of enemy air defenses. Other
DoD uses of this band include equipment calibration, weather surveillance, and vehicular speed
detection.
Key Army operations supported in the 33.4 to 36.0 GHz band include the operations
of a dual-band, millimeter wave (MMW) radar, and operation of cloud detection radar. The
operations of these two systems support final-phase, pre-impact tracking of missiles launched
for test purposes and is a constituent part of the Kwajalein Missile Range (KMR). KMR is
considered to be a vital national asset because it is the only location available for testing US
exoatmospheric ballistic missile defense intercepts, and it is one of only two US Anti57
Ballistic Missile Treaty-approved ballistic missile defense test locations. The Army also
supports the Radar Advanced Measurement and Target Scatter System (RATSCAT) system
in this portion of the spectrum and a Radar Seeker System.
The Navy operates portions of its FORACS system and the Air Force supports law
enforcement, Air Force Flight Test Center RDT& E, cloud detection radar used for remote
sensing and weather research, and fire control system test and evaluation in this portion of
the spectrum. The Air Force also supports the operations of the Polarimetric Imaging Radar
System (PIRS). The PIRS was designed to operate on aircraft strictly for test purposes (i.e.,
the PIRS was not designed for tactical use) and is used to collect radar imaging data.
Another Air Force capability supported on a NIB is the operation of instrumentation radar
used to collect radar data on various targets and terrain features from fixed platforms,
buildings, and towers. The Research and Seeker Emulation Radar (ERASER) is also used to
support laboratory in-house MMW seeker research. A Signal Generator used to test antennas
in support of airborne equipment target classifier performance studies operates in this band.
The Advanced Cross Section Measurement Radar is also supported in this band as well as the
Radar Advanced Measurement and Target Scatter System (RATSCAT).
3.41 Summary of Current DoD Spectrum Usage
This section has focused on providing a general summary of the spectrum bands that
the Department of Defense employs in support of the numerous spectrum-dependent
capabilities that are required to uphold its global mission. The above discussion addresses
the majority of bands, both federal exclusive and shared bands that DoD uses. While DoD
also uses a number of other bands, those addressed above (and in a subsequent section)
reflecting satellite communications spectrum use provide significant insight into the varied
applications to which DoD employs spectrum to support in addition to the numerous
functions for which these applications are essential. The next section will address DoD’s
anticipated future demands for spectrum support and the way in which future demands will
impact certain spectrum bands. The discussion of bands used for satellite communications
will encompass both current and future needs.
58
4.0 Future Needs and Growth Assessment (2015-2020)
4.1 DoD Spectrum Requirements, Including Bandwidth and
Frequency Location for Future Technologies or Services
As a result of addressing the first task from the Executive Memorandum for agencyspecific
strategic spectrum plans, DoD determined that it would need to address current spectrum
usage and demands as well as provide information on future spectrum requirements. Current
spectrum usage and demands are presented first to establish DoD’s baseline spectrum usage.
The approach used to address baseline spectrum requirements focuses on providing an
understanding of the many spectrum bands in which DoD currently operates, and on which DoD
is critically dependent. DoD’s future spectrum needs are subsequently addressed and the
discussion is structured primarily according to major categories of service. The categories used
for DoD’s future spectrum demands assessment include terrestrial, satellite communications,
radar, and test/training. Future spectrum needs are addressed by providing assessments of how
each of the major categories of services for applicable bands and systems are projected to
experience an increased demand for spectrum use in the future.
This section of the DoD Strategic Spectrum Plan will address DoD’s future systems,
technologies, and services that will be both dependent on spectrum resources and have
significant impact on DoD’s growing spectrum needs. To help ensure that spectrum is available,
DoD must first understand and articulate its spectrum needs. DoD’s concern/need includes both
US&P and non-US&P for day-to-day infrastructure, training, and operational scenarios. One of
the major challenges here is accurately determining spectrum needs arising from the vast US&P
camp/post/base/station day-to-day infrastructure activities. Not only is it difficult to determine
what equipment is present, but it is also difficult to determine its specific spectrum operational
use during these activities.
Over the next twenty years, US forces will experience operational environments that are
increasingly complex, uncertain, and dynamic. The Net-Centric Environment Joint Functional
Concept29 is an information and decision superiority-based concept which describes the
organization and operations of joint forces in the future. The networking of all joint force
elements will enable unparalleled information sharing and collaboration. Full exploitation of
both shared knowledge and technical connectivity will thereby increase the joint force mission
effectiveness and efficiency in support of military transformation.
Critical to achieving this capability is communications connectivity and flexibility across
geographically dispersed, heterogeneous systems at capacity levels far greater than previously
experienced. Indications are that DoD will experience increased usage of EM spectrum for
numerous systems in the future. The frequency bands most affected for terrrestial systems are
depicted in Figure 4-1.
29 Net-Centric Environment Joint Functional Concept, Version 1, Office of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, April 7, 2005
59
3 MHz 30 MHz 300 MHz 3 GHz 30 GHz 300 GHz
4.2 – 4.4 GHz
9.5 – 17.3 GHz
33.4 – 38.0 GHz
3 MHz – 2.29 GHz
Figure 4-1 Bands in which DoD spectrum usage is expected to increase.
GHz
4.2 Transformation Development Initiatives
To this end, DoD has embarked on a comprehensive plan to reinvent the tactical
communications infrastructure. The following DoD development initiatives are a manifestation
of this reinvention and create the framework for addressing future spectrum needs.
Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) – The JTRS is a family of modular, software-defined,
multi-band, multi-mode radios that will replace virtually the entire current inventory of tactical
radios and, ultimately, SATCOM terminals as well. Furthermore, JTRS radios will have
inherent cross banding and a networking capability that will enable mobile forces to remain
connected to an Internet Protocol (IP) based network.
Warfighter Information Network – Tactical (WIN-T) – WIN-T is the US Army’s high-capacity,
high-speed, backbone communications network that will provide the required reach, reachback,
interoperability, and network operations for the Maneuver Units of Action (UA) and seamlessly
interface with JTRS. It will extend to the individual warfighter platform level and offer seamless
interoperability with other networks, including legacy, joint, coalition, and even commercial
networks utilizing all available links to support the warfighter anywhere on the globe.
High Capacity Line-of-Sight (HCLOS) – The HCLOS radio is part of the Army's area common
user system (ACUS) program. ACUS is the first phase of the warfighter information networkterrestrial,
or WIN-T program. The Army also anticipates using the HCLOS radio with MSE
which is equipment configured for a brigade subscriber node for initial brigade combat teams.
HCLOS technology will increase link capacities from the current 1 Mbps to more than 8 Mbps.
Wideband Networking Waveform (WNW) – High data rate waveform development is an integral
part of the JTRS Program. Within the JTRS context, the Wideband Networking Waveform
(WNW) is key to providing wideband networking capabilities.
Future Combat Systems (FCS) – FCS is a joint networked system of systems connected via an
advanced network architecture that will enable levels of joint connectivity, situational awareness
and understanding, and synchronized operations heretofore unachievable. The FCS
communication network is comprised of several homogenous communication systems such as
JTRS with the WNW, Soldier Radio Waveform (SRW), Network Data Link, and WIN-T. FCS
60
leverages all available resources to provide a robust, survivable, scalable, and reliable
heterogeneous communications network that seamlessly integrates ground, airborne, and
spaceborne assets for constant connectivity and layered redundancy.
Common Data Link (CDL) – CDL will provide communications paths using JTRS software
communications architecture. The project includes a number of separate tasks dealing with
tactical CDL for UASs, a wideband integrated CDL for Network Centric Collaborative
Targeting, and development of an ultra-wideband airborne laser.
In the future, these and other current and planned developments will have a dramatic impact
on throughput requirements for tactical DoD systems. In addition to considering the impacts of
these major developments, DoD also surveyed the research and development and the acquisition
elements of the Military Departments regarding other programs. The purpose of the survey was
to collect information on as many programs as possible that are expected to influence spectrum
usage and requirements in the future. A significant number of survey responses were received
and proved to provide very useful insights, though they represent only a portion of the actual
programs that will have future impacts on spectrum requirements. The throughput requirements
of the major development initiatives, as well as for those programs providing survey responses,
indicate that in many instances there will be a corresponding impact on EM spectrum usage.
4.3 Future Terrestrial Spectrum Needs and Growth Trends
Each of the aforementioned has one or more terrestrial components. Taken together, these
new systems will affect the amount of data being exchanged on the battlefield and, as such, will
have an impact on future demand for EM spectrum. Terrestrial spectrum usage is comprised of
both mobile and fixed systems as defined by the following:
Mobile Systems – Systems (used while in motion or during halts at unspecified points) that
include land, maritime, and aeronautical mobile services. Generally, systems employing nondirectional
antennas are assigned to this category, since mobility and/or connectivity
requirements would make directional antennas relatively impractical for most applications.
Fixed Systems – Within DoD, there are numerous fixed (point-to-point) systems that
provide service over operating distances of up to approximately 60 km. These systems often
share frequencies in the mobile bands using directional antennas. Some of these systems are
permanently “fixed” in a certain location. Other systems include tactical terminals that are
regarded as “fixed”, even though they are actually “fixed-transportable.” For the assessment
herein, point-to-point refers to radio transmission between or among two or more stationary
systems employing directional antennas.
Terrestrial spectrum requirements considered herein have been subdivided into two broad
categories representing different physical operating concepts and technical implementations,
namely: (1) Operations below 3 GHz and (2) Operations above 3 GHz. Each reflects unique
challenges with respect to access and use of the spectrum.
61
4.3.1 DoD Terrestrial Spectrum Requirements Growth Below 3 GHz
DoD terrestrial mobile radio systems include the Enhanced Position Location Reporting
System (EPLRS), HAVEQUICK radios, hand-held, manpack and vehicular-mounted radios (to
include Abrams tanks, Bradley Fighting Vehicles, High Mobility Multi-wheeled Vehicle
(HUMMV), etc.), and radios used in VHF and UHF Common Radio Nets. The point-to-point
category consists primarily of terrestrial elements of weapon system command/video links, MSE
radio, and the HCLOS radio (225 to 400 MHz and 1,350 to 2,690 MHz).
Projections for future mobile spectrum requirements include the JTRS family of radios and
the addition of unmanned ISR and combat delivery platforms. Although the JTRS is a multifunction
software supported system, its initial fielding is geared at replacing legacy radio systems
and maintaining the fundamental structure of current operational communications architectures.
As such, the JTRS will not have an appreciable impact on spectrum requirements until fielding
of the Army’s Future Force – the Unit of Action (UA) / Unit of Employment (UE) in 2014. The
UA will leverage the JTRS WNW to support increased information demand and drive a
corresponding increase in spectrum requirements.
DoD’s need for access to EM spectrum for terrestrial mobile systems will experience
significant growth over the next decade. Many of the systems operating in the bands presented
in Table 4-1 reflect a projected increase in spectrum use. Most of these are due to the additional
requirements to support fielding of new capabilities such as unmanned ground/air vehicles and to
support additional Combat Net Radio (CNR) links associated with echelon adjustments to force
structure as a result of transformation and increased use of maneuver forces.
The trend depicted in Table 4-1 is the result of a significantly increased requirement for
mobile spectrum use beyond 2014. This increase is in support of the joint transformational
communications concepts of the Army and Marine Corps FCS, the Air Force Command and
Control Constellation, and Navy FORCEnet. Mobile spectrum usage beyond 2014 is driven by
transition to WNW wireless networks that contribute to the realization of Network-Centric
Warfare. These networks will provide increased situational awareness, dissemination of timely
intelligence, and direct high-bandwidth communications to all battlefield users.
62
Table 4-1.
Future Terrestrial DoD Spectrum Usage Below 3GHz
Frequency-Band
(MHz) Service or System Increased Usage
in Band
3-30 Voice / Data YES
30-88 Voice / Data YES
108-150.05
Differential GPS (DGPS) Data
Link
Voice / Data
LMR
YES
162-174 LMR YES
216-225 Radiolocation YES
225-400
SRW
Command Control Link
MSE
HCLOS
WIN-T
YES
400.05-420
Radar
Command Control Link
LMR
YES
420-450 LMR
EPLRS YES
902-928 Radar YES
932-935 Radar YES
941-944 Radar YES
960-1215 IFF
JTIDS YES
1215-1390
WNW
GPS
MSE
HCLOS
YES
1390-1710
WNW
Command Control Link
GPS
Video Link
WIN-T
HCLOS
YES
1755-1850
WNW
CDL
HCLOS
YES
2200-2290 WIN-T
HCLOS YES
2290-2700
Flight Test Telemetry
Command Control Link
TCP/IP
WIN-T
HCLOS
YES
2700-2900 Meteorological
Radiolocation UNK
2900-3100 Radar YES
63
4.3.2 DoD Terrestrial Spectrum Requirements Growth Above 3 GHz
High-speed, point-to-point data transfer applications are the major contributor to DoD
terrestrial spectrum requirements above 3 GHz as shown in Table 4-2. Data transfer from
aircraft and UASs and sensor data links are among the primary categories of battlefield data
transfer requirements. Fixed infrastructure communications links are the primary non-battlefield
systems category. These data transfer systems typically operate in a variety of frequency bands
below 20 GHz, depending on the application characteristics. The Common Data Link (CDL),
UAS C-band data links, and precision-guided munitions video and control data links are a few
examples. Specific attributes for these high-data rate links include supporting throughput rates in
the megabit ranges and links to ground or fixed stations with high gain, highly directional
antennas. The operational battlefield geometry and operating distances along with spectrum
physics determine the optimum bands for support of these high-speed data links.
Data link requirements for battlefield systems are projected to grow significantly through
2015 to support the increased use of battlefield sensors and support high data transfers associated
with high-resolution and hyper-spectral sensor data projected for employment on the Global
Hawk UAS. Moreover, new requirements are surfacing for Secure Wireless LANs in the 5 GHz
band as well as UAS Command & Control links and FCS Data Networks in the 30 GHz to 40
GHz frequency band. Based on projections for these and other systems, an indication of where
increases in band usage are expected to occur for the 2015 time frame and beyond.
Table 4-2.
Future Terrestrial DoD Spectrum Usage Above 3GHz
Frequency-Band
(MHz) Service or System Increased Usage
in Band
3100-3600 Radar
4200-4400 Radionavigation YES
4400-4990 UAS Data Link YES
5250-5350 Secure Wireless LAN YES
5350-5650 Secure Wireless LAN YES
5650-5850 Secure Wireless LAN YES
5850-5925 Secure Wireless LAN YES
9500-10,450 Shipboard Wireless LAN
CDL YES
14,500-15,350
UAS Command & Control
TCDL
CDL
YES
15,700-17,300 Synthetic Aperture Radar
CDL YES
30,000-31,000 UAS Command & Control YES
33,400-36,000 UAS Command & Control YES
38,000 FCS Data Networks YES
64
4.4 Satellite Communications (SATCOM) Spectrum Needs
4.4.1 Importance of SATCOM to DoD
The importance of SATCOM to DoD has increased significantly as transformational
concepts requiring increased information flow to smaller combat units operating across greater
distances in non-contiguous battlefields using “reach-back” have evolved. This, along with the
increasing demand for more information at all echelons, has resulted in ever-increasing demands
for more satellite capacity which has a direct bearing on available spectrum for satellite
applications. SATCOM resources use bands between 225 MHz and 44 GHz to support military
requirements. SATCOM includes both military systems (MILSATCOM) operating in the
government allocated spectrum bands and commercial satellites used by DoD although provided
by commercial operators using non-Government spectrum bands. DoD relies on a mixture of
both MILSATCOM and commercial SATCOM services to support military operations.
DoD’s use of SATCOM has increased greatly over the past decade. SATCOM resources
are inherently flexible and well suited to supporting dynamic mobile and comm-on-the-move
operations required for military missions. Spanning over distance, terrain, or hostile forces,
SATCOM can provide a global reach for dispersed mobile platforms such as aircraft (both
manned and unmanned), submarines, and surface ships as well as vehicles and man-pack
applications. SATCOM supplies mobile voice, paging, video, data, and messaging services and
can deliver those services independent of the type of warfighting platform or system. Similarly,
satellites keep en route forces, weapons, and support systems supplied with critical information
while deploying from CONUS or overseas bases into the theater of operations. SATCOM can
immediately tie sensors to shooters and provide over the horizon control of remote sensors and
remoted or in-flight weapons. SATCOM systems also link together widely dispersed forces in
various stages of training, mobilization, deployment, engagement, sustained operations,
recovery, and redeployment. Properly designed and implemented, SATCOM services are by
their very nature multi-purpose and can be dynamically reconfigured to respond to the
warfighter’s changing mission needs, environments, and variety of geographical distributions.
SATCOM systems are absolutely essential in providing the assured and survivable
communications demanded by the National Command Authority (NCA) and strategic and nonstrategic
nuclear deterrence forces. Survivable SATCOM is one of only two primary means of
connectivity for these systems, and the only one with appreciable data throughput to provide
secure, accurate, reliable, and unambiguous command and control to our nuclear forces.
SATCOM also satisfies some of the more specialized warfighter information transfer needs.
Operations in the north polar region rely on assured, robust, and capable SATCOM connectivity
to support NCA operations, intelligence collection and dissemination, space surveillance,
submarine and anti-submarine warfare operations, and special operations forces (SOF) as well as
trans-polar flight and polar region naval activities. They are also ideal for broadcasting to
multiple forces across many echelons of command and for critical information that helps provide
a true, fused, real-time, common view of the joint battlespace.
65
4.4.2 Mix of SATCOM Requirements
DoD continually faces the challenge of ascertaining the correct mix of DoD-owned
SATCOM and leased commercial SATCOM to meet its growing information transfer
requirements. The stringent information needs of the warfighters and combat support require a
flexible media mix. In general terms, DoD’s SATCOM requirements fall into four areas:
protected and survivable, wideband / high capacity, narrowband, and commercial leased
SATCOM.
Protected and Survivable:
• Current: Protected and Survivable systems stress anti-jam features, covertness, and
nuclear survivability. These features are currently provided to DoD by the Milstar
satellite constellation.
• Mid-Term: The Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF) System is the followon
to the Milstar, and expanding the SATCOM architecture to enable
Transformational Communications and Network Centric Warfare. AEHF will
provide connectivity across the spectrum of mission areas, including land, air, and
naval warfare; special operations; strategic nuclear operations; strategic defense;
theater missile defense; and space operations and intelligence. AEHF will operate in
the same spectrum bands as the Milstar constellation but with significantly higher
data rates.
• Future: The Transformational Satellite System (TSAT) will address DoD’s future
SATCOM needs for protected services. It will have the security features currently
associated with Milstar and AEHF constellations but operate at much higher data
rates (see Wideband below). The TSAT constellation will be capable of establishing
circuit-based crosslinks with the AEHF constellation and will also be backward
compatible with AEHF circuit-based terminals. Accordingly, the TSAT constellation
will operate in the current Milstar and AEHF frequency bands.
Wideband/High Capacity:
• Current: Assured capacity is the primary goal of the military's wideband satellite
communications constellation. The military's wideband requirements are currently
supported by the super high frequency (SHF) Defense Satellite Communications
System (DSCS) and the Global Broadcast Service (GBS) as along with commercial
systems (discussed below).
• Mid-Term: The Wideband Gapfiller Satellite (WGS) program will provide the next
generation of wideband communications for DoD. The constellation will supplement
DSCS and GBS systems while DoD transitions to more capable future systems. In
addition, the WGS program will include a high-capacity two-way Ka-band capability
to support mobile and tactical battlefield forces. WGS will also operate in the current
DSCS and GBS spectrum bands.
• Future: As discussed under Protected and Survivable services above, the TSAT
program will be DoD’s primary future MILSATCOM constellation. While offering
fully protected communication services it will also provide data rates historically
66
associated with the wideband DSCS and WGS constellations. The ability to provide
high data rate protected services comes from the incorporation of new technologies
such as advanced laser communications, RF-waveforms, and internet-like switching.
The multi-function capability of the TSAT will require frequencies across all current
satellite allocated spectrum bands.
Narrowband:
• Current: Narrowband systems emphasize support to users who need voice or lowdata-
rate communications and who also may be mobile or otherwise disadvantaged.
Ultrahigh frequency (UHF) satellites are the workhorses for tactical ground, sea, and
air forces. The current military narrowband tactical satellite communications system
is the Ultra High Frequency Follow-On (UFO) system.
• Mid-Term/Future: The next-generation narrowband tactical satellite communications
system is known as the Mobile User Objective System (MUOS). MUOS will provide
improved and assured communications for the mobile warfighter. MUOS satellites
will be fully compatible with the existing UFO system and associated legacy
terminals while dramatically increasing military mobile communications availability
and providing simultaneous voice, data, and video in real time to mobile warfighters
around the globe. MUOS will also maximize the full feature capability of the future
Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) terminals.
Commercial SATCOM:
The fourth segment of DoD’s SATCOM media mix consists of commercial
communications satellites. Commercial SATCOM is heavily used to support DoD's
MILSATCOM capabilities where capacity and coverage needs are the primary
consideration and jamming protection is not required. DoD leases a variety of
commercial satellite resources worldwide depending on the capabilities that are needed
and the available bandwidth in the region of interest able to be satisfied by commercial
means.
• Current: Over the past decade or more, DoD has had to resort to employing
increasing amounts of commercial SATCOM services. The on-going conflicts in the
Middle East, and the increased op tempo globally, have resulted in the need for
SATCOM services and capacities that have overwhelmed DoD’s MILSATCOM
capabilities. The growth in the use of commercial SATCOM has been with both
high-capacity Fixed Satellite Services (i.e., C-Band and Ku-Band SATCOM) and
with lower capacity Mobile Satellite Services (i.e., Iridium, Globalstar, INMARSAT,
Thuraya, etc.).
• Future: It does not seem reasonable that DoD would continue to experience the high
rate of growth in commercial SATCOM usage; however, future developments are
very difficult to anticipate. DoD’s planned MILSATCOM capability upgrades
(MUOS, WGS, AEHF, and TSAT) continue to experience delays and program
67
Fwd
Rtn
M
G
DRTS
NIMIQ2,
ECHOSTAR,
SPACEWAY,
PEGASUS IA,
IIA, IIIA,
IRIDIUM
Gateway links,
G3.4 -
4.8
G5.725-
6.725
G18.3-
M3700 21.0
M137-
138
3
GHz
30
GHz
300
MHz
Com’l
Ka
MILSTAR,
UFO,
FLTSATCOM
EHF
Package(FEP)
Global
Broadcast
Service
(GBS)
Government / Military SATCOM Services
VHF UHF L S X K V
Space-Ground
Link System
(SGLS),
Unified S-Band
(USB)
TDRS
1000MHz 8GHz 40GHz 75GHz
INMARSAT,
IRIDIUM,
GLOBALSTAR,
THURAYA
ACeS/GARUDA
ACeS/GARUDA
INMARSAT,
GLOBALSTAR
INTELSAT,
Various C-Band
INMARSAT
THURAYA
Com’l.
L Com’l
C
Com’l
Ku
Com’l
Ka
C Ku
M1525-
1559
M1616 -
1660.5
G17.3-
17.8
M243.7 -
269.95
Uplink Bands
M1761-1842 (SGLS)
M2025-2110 (USB)
Downlink Band
M2200-2290
G30-30.5
The mobile-satellite service may operate on a non-interference G43.5-45.5
basis in the M235–322 and M335.4–399.9 bands
worldwide (FN 5.254), and on a primary basis
limited to military operations in the US&P (FN G100).
G27.5 G31
GPS
Nuclear
Detection
System
L1: M1575.420
L2: M1227.600
L3: M1381.050
L4: M1379.913
L5: M1176.450*
(*future use)
12GHz
Ka
ORBCOMM
M148-
150
Com’l
L
L-Band Sat Phones
INMARSAT: M1525-1559 D/L, M1626.5-1660.5 U/L
THURAYA: M1525-1559 D/L, M1626.5-1660.5 U/L
IRIDIUM: M1616-1626.5
GLOBALSTAR: M1610-1626.5 U/L, M2483.5-2500 D/L
ACeS/GARUDA: M1610-1660.5, M1980-2010 U/L
M1525-1559, M2170-2200 D/L,
M 2483.5, 2500, M3400-3700 D/L
New ICO: M1980-2010 U/L, M2170-2200 D/L
C-Band SATCOM
Typical: G3.700-4.200 D/L, G5.925-6.425 U/L
EXTENDED C: G3.400-3.700 D/L, G6.425-6.725 U/L
INMARSAT: G3.550-3.700 D/L, G6.425-6.575 U/L
THURAYA: G3.400-3.625 D/L, G6.425-6.725 U/L
GLOBALSTAR: G5.091-5.250 U/L, G6.875-7.055 D/L
New ICO: G5.150-5.250 U/L, G6.975-7.075 D/L
Ku-Band SATCOM: (10.7-14.5 GHz)
Typical: G10.95-12.75 D/L, G14.00-14.50 U/L
Extended Ku: G10.7-12.2 D/L,
G12.75-13.25, G13.75-14.00 U/L
ECHOSTAR: G11.7-12.7 D/L, G14.0-14.5 U/L
K-Band SATCOM (10-31 GHz) Includes Ku and Ka:
NIMIQ: G12.2-12.7, G19.7-20.2 D/L,
G17.3-17.8, G29.5-30.0 U/L
SIRIUS (Swedish): G11.7-12.5, G12.5-12.7 D/L,
G17.3-18.1, G14.0-14.5 U/L
Ka-Band SATCOM (17-21 GHz and (27-31 GHz)
ECHOSTAR: G17.3-17.8, G28.35-28.6, G29-25-30.0 U/L
G18.3-18.8, G19.7-20.2 D/L
SPACEWAY: G28.35-28.6, G29.25 – 30.0 U/L
G18.3-18.8, G19.7-20.2 D/L
PEGASUS IA, IIA, IIIA: G28.35-28.6, G29.25-30.0 U/L
G18.3-18.8, G19.7-20.2 D/L
M292.85 -
339.6
Com’l
VHF
MILSTAR
Crosslinks
W
M1980
G60
Heavy Orbital/Terrestrial
Congestion: much coordination
with terrestrial users needed
M401- 402
Argos
Argos
M1695-
1710
M406.05,
M406.025
SARSAT
Emerg
Beacon
M243
SARSAT SARSAT
M1544 . 5
M2025-2118 TDRS Crosslinks (Fwd)
M2200-2300 TDRS Crosslinks (Rtn)
Satellite Communications Spectrum Commercial SATCOM Services
EHF
18GHz
M137-138
Argos
TDRS
G13.75-
13.8
G14.891-
15.116
Fwd Rtn
G13.4-14.05 D/L
G14.6-15.25 U/L
TDRS
G22.55-
23.55
G25.25-
27.5
Fwd Rtn
UFO,
AFSATCOM
FLTSATCOM
DRTS (G19.7 – 21.15)
NIMIQ2,
SIRIUS,
ECHOSTAR,
SPACEWAY,
PEGASUS IA, IIA, IIIA,
INTELSAT IRIDIUM Gateway links
Various Ku-Band
G10.95-
12.75
G14.00-
14.50
VHF
MILSTAR, GBS,
UFO,
FLTSATCOM
EHF Package
(FEP)
G20.2-21.2
SHF
Version 4.0 April 2005, Joint Spectrum Center/J3, DSN 281-9815
= Uplink Band
= Downlink Band
= Forward Crosslink from TDRS (or DTRS) satellite to orbiter
= Return Crosslink from orbiter to TDRS (or DTRS) satellite
= MHz
= GHz
UHF
DRTS G23.0-23.55 D/L
DRTS G25.25-27.5 U/L
DRTS G23.0-23.55 C/L (Fwd)
DRTS G25.25-27.5 C/L (Rtn)
IRIDIUM G22.55-23.55 C/L
DSCS
G7.25-7.75 G7.9-8.4
Com’l
S
M2025-2110 D/L
M2200-2290 U/L
M2025-2110 C/L Fwd
M2200-2290 C/L Rtn
DRTS
Satellite
Digital Audio
Radio Service
(SDARS)
M2320-
2345
M7025-
7075
XM Radio
Heavy Orbital/ SIRIUS CD Radio
Terrestrial Congestion:
much coordination
with terrestrial
users needed
DRTS & IRIDIUM
G22.55-
23.55
G25.25-
27.5
Inter-Satellite &
Terrestrial Links
challenges. As existing commercial SATCOM capabilities are enhanced and as
advanced commercial SATCOM systems (e.g., Ka-Band SATCOM) are deployed,
DoD may have no other option than to leverage these emerging capabilities to meet
on-going operational requirements.
Figure 4-2 depicts most military and commercial SATCOM capabilities and identifies them
with associated spectrum bands.
Figure 4-2. Military and Commercial SATCOM Spectrum
Determining the best mix of military and commercial SATCOM capabilities,
management and control systems, and terminals to provide optimum support to all warfighter
information requirements within fiscal constraints is a tremendously complex problem. The
right balance must be reached between operational utility, backward compatibility, technical
achievability, and affordability. Additionally, strong and unpredictable forces of change will
dominate the coming decade. Factors DoD cannot accurately predict include technology, geopolitics,
budgets, and the national and international legal and regulatory environments, to name
but a few. The warfighters' requirements will be directly and dramatically influenced by (and
will evolve in response to) these forces.
68
4.4.3 SATCOM Spectrum Requirements
Spectrum requirements for SATCOM depend, among other factors, on the degree that
spectrum reuse can be achieved and the extent to which jamming protection is employed. Reuse
is a function of the directionality of the antennas and the satellite field of view. Low earth orbit
(LEO) and medium earth orbit (MEO) satellites have a smaller field of view than
geosynchronous satellites and such satellite constellations can employ frequency reuse to a
greater extent. Jamming protection is primarily achieved through signal processing and requires
an increase in spectrum requirements in direct proportion to the processing gain supported.
Factors also affecting spectrum use include details of orbital location; power and modulation;
geometry including satellite and terminal locations and antenna directionality; and time or
operational limitations. All of these factors must be considered when identifying satellite
spectrum requirements.
Additionally, due to capability requirements, DoD must employ satellites across multiple,
diverse military and commercial frequency bands. No single frequency band or single satellite
communications system can satisfy the full range of needs. Each satellite communications band
of the internationally regulated spectrum has its own fundamental and essential utility to the
warfighter due to capabilities not easily duplicated in other bands. Especially important for
certain applications is the ability to penetrate foliage or other obstacles (in general, the lower
frequency bands [e.g., the (VHF) and UHF bands] penetrate foliage better than the higher bands).
Higher frequency bands bring expanded capacities through higher spectral energies and available
bandwidths (but with drawbacks such as increased rain attenuation effects and increased freespace
loss).
Table 4-3 identifies the satellite spectrum bands currently utilized by both military and
commercial satellite systems and indicates the bands where DoD spectrum growth is expected to
occur in the near future. However, this does not describe the full extent of DoD’s future satellite
spectrum requirements. As discussed above, to satisfy the increased demand for SATCOM
associated with transformational warfighting and DoD’s need for information, DoD is planning
to field several new satellite constellations that will require access to satellite spectrum. While
these systems are expected to operate in the current bands identified for satellite utilization, the
increase in the number of constellations utilizing the same frequency bands will put pressure on
the spectrum availabilty to satisfy the demand while providing necessary assurance of
interference free operations. Some examples of multiple systems employing the same frequency
bands are noted in Table 4-3. Additionally, there is increased research into the utility of higher
bands for these purposes, but the utility and ultimate use is not assured. DoD will continue to
work with the NTIA and international community to identify requirements and coordinate
efficient utilization of these frequency bands.
69
Table 4-3. SATCOM Growth Projections by Spectrum Bands
Frequency-
Band (MHz) Military Commercial Increased Use
108-150.05
SARSAT Uplink
Argo Downlink
ORBCOMM
Downlink
ORBCOMM Uplink
225-400
UFO Uplink
AFSATCOM Uplink
FLTSATCOM Uplink
UFO Downlink
AFSATCOM
Downlink
FLTSATCOM
Downlink
YES
400.05-420
Argos Uplink
SARSAT Uplink
1215-1390
GPS L2
GPS L3
GPS L4
1390-1710
SARSAT Downlink
GPS L1
Argos Downlink
INMARSAT
Downlink
THURAYA
Downlink
ACeS/GARUDA
Downlink
INMARSAT Uplink
IRIDIUM
GLOBALSTAR
Uplink
THURAYA Uplink
ACeS/GARUDA
Uplink
1755-1850 SGLS Uplink
1980-2010
ACeS/GARUDA
Downlink
ICO Uplink
2025-2110 USB Uplink
DRTS Downlink
DRTS Fwd
YES
2170-2200
ACeS/GARUDA
Downlink
ICO Downlink
2200-2290 SGLS Downlink
DRTS Uplink
DRTS Rtn
2290-2700
ACeS/GARUDA
Downlink
3400-3700
ACeS/GARUDA
Downlink
INMARSAT
Downlink
70
Table 4-3. SATCOM Growth Projections by Spectrum Bands (Continued)
Frequency-
Band (MHz) Military Commercial Increased Use
5000-5250
GLOBALSTAR
Uplink
ICO Uplink
6425-6725
INMARSAT Uplink
THURAYA Uplink
6875-7075
GLOBALSTAR
Downlink
ICO Downlink
7125-8450
DSCS Uplink
DSCS Downlink YES
11,700-12,700
ECHOSTAR
Downlink
NIMIQ Downlink
SIRIUS Downlink
14,000-14,500
ECHOSTAR Uplink
SIRIUS Uplink
14,500-15,350
17,300-17,800
NIMIQ Uplink
SIRIUS Uplink
ECHOSTAR Uplink YES
18,300-18,800
ECHOSTAR
Downlink
SPACEWAY
Downlink
PEGASUS IA, IIA,
IIIA Downlink YES
19,200-20,200
NIMIQ Downlink
SIRIUS Downlink
ECHOSTAR
Downlink
SPACEWAY
Downlink
PEGASUS IA, IIA,
IIIA Downlink
YES
71
Table 4-3. SATCOM Growth Projections by Spectrum Bands (Continued)
Frequency-
Band (MHz) Military Commercial Increased Use
20,200-21,200
MILSTAR Downlink
Advanced EHF
Downlink
GBS Downlink
UFO Downlink
FLTSATCOM EHF
Downlink
TSAT Downlink
YES
22,550-23,550
DRTS Downlink
DRTS Fwd
IRIDIUM
25,250-27,500
DRTS Uplink
DRTS Rtn
28,350-28,600
ECHOSTAR
Uplink
SPACEWAY
Uplink
PEGASUS IA, IIA,
IIIA Uplink
29,000-30,000
NIMIQ Uplink
ECHOSTAR
Uplink
SPACEWAY
Uplink
PEGASUS IA, IIA,
IIIA Uplink
30,000-31,000 GBS Uplink
WGS Uplink YES
43,500-45,500
MILSTAR Uplink
UFO Uplink
FLTSATCOM FEP
Uplink
TSAT Uplink
YES
72
4.4.4 Impact of Increased SATCOM Demand
Since all currently used SATCOM frequency spectrum is projected for continued or
expanded use there is growing competition for SATCOM spectrum. This competition will
increase as new commercial satellite constellations and the DoD transformational SATCOM
constellation is fielded. Future systems will use the totality of the existing SATCOM frequency
bands and the associated orbital slot assignments unless, or until, other bands or services can
better meet requirements. Consequently, sufficient nationally and internationally allocated
frequency spectrum and orbital slots must be retained/obtained as an essential enabler of
military-unique systems and capabilities. Denying the warfighters’ use of any portion of the
spectrum would reduce flexibility and jeopardize mission accomplishment.
4.5 Radar Spectrum Needs
Current DoD radar spectrum requirements are extensive and will grow significantly in the
future. Military radars perform several essential tasks including navigation, landing aides, air
traffic control, surveillance, target location and tracking, weapons control, and altimeters.
Successful accomplishment of these tasks is vital to DoD’s ability to perform the full range of
missions and conduct successful military campaigns.
For radar systems, the characteristics of the spectrum band employed have significant
impact on the capability that can be achieved and therefore the information that will be provided
to the user. Like most other RF based system design decisions, the frequency selection for radar
systems has significant impact on the radar’s application. The best frequency to use for radar is
specific to the application of the system and involves many tradeoffs such as physical size,
transmitted power, antenna beamwidth, and atmospheric attenuation. Typically, radars in low
frequency bands provide the ability to detect targets at long distances and track space assets. On
the other hand, higher frequency band systems have only limited ability for search functions but
can track objects with very high precision, potentially forming an actual image of the object to
assist in classification and discrimination. For example, the 8 - 12 GHz band missile defense
radar requires queuing by low frequency band radar systems to focus on a specific search area.
Because of these relationships between radar frequency bands and radar capabilities, the US
military will continue to retain radars and develop new systems that operate throughout the full
range of the electromagnetic spectrum.
New developments in radar systems are centering on the upper frequency bands (above
10 GHz), but these developments are generally intended to enhance capabilities rather than
supplant the existing systems in the lower bands. Additionally, the trend in radars is towards
wider bandwidths both to better discriminate target objects and to provide additional signal
processing for anti-jam techniques. Another unique aspect of radar spectrum usage is that radar
systems are generally unable to be retuned for flexible frequency assignment. As discussed
above, military radars perform several different tasks and are further discussed below by general
radar function: Search, Surveillance, and Fire Control/Imaging.
73
4.5.1 Search Radar
The primary functions of search radar are detection and determination of accurate ranges
and bearings to targets while maintaining a complete 360o search for all targets. Search radars
normally operate at relatively low frequencies below 1 GHz, permitting long range transmissions
with minimum attenuation. Low frequency band systems can cover large volumes of space and
are capable of foliage penetration and operation in extreme weather environments, but they have
limited resolution and cannot image objects detected. Generally, search radars are used to detect
targets and pass them to fire control/imaging radars for further action. In the case of search
radar, existing systems are planned to operate well into the foreseeable future. Consequently,
reliance on the associated bands will continue through 2020 and beyond.
4.5.2 Surveillance Radar
Similar to search radar, surveillance radar uses a 360 o antenna to survey the area of
interest. A key difference is that surveillance radars usually display all detections, whereas
search radars attempt to filter out stationary objects. The majority of surveillance radars operate
in the range from below 1 GHz up to 6 GHz; however, there are many surveillance radars that
also operate in the range of 8 - 12 GHz. Although surveillance radars perform both search and
tracking functions, they are typically used in self-defense or more range-limited applications than
in search radar. As with search radar, existing surveillance radar systems are planned to continue
to operate in the foreseeable future with the majority of systems remaining in service through
2020.
4.5.3 Fire Control/Imaging Radar
Radar that provides continuous positional data on a target is called fire control/imaging
radar, or sometimes referred to as tracking radar. Fire control/imaging radar must first be
directed in the general location of the desired target because of the narrow beam pattern. Fire
control/imaging radars most often operate in frequency bands above 8 GHz. The radars in this
category provide high-resolution performance for track identification, precision-guided
munitions capabilities, and discrimination of ground targets. Current applications include highresolution
air and surface tracking radar used by air defense installations, tactical aircraft, and
Navy surface ships. Fire control radar and precision munitions also rely on higher fequencies
for accurate and effective targeting. DoD’s use of current fire control/imaging radar systems will
continue into and through the next decade and will also experience a significant increase.
4.5.4 Current DoD Radar Systems
DoD’s ability to provide the full range of military capabilities needed to deter war and to
protect the security of our country is heavily dependent on radar systems operating throughout
the electromagnetic spectrum. This is reflected in Table 4-4 below, which depicts DoD radar
frequency operating bands, the variety of radar applications resident in those bands, and the
military platforms employing radar systems in the identified frequency band. As stated above,
DoD plans to operate these systems in their current frequency bands in the foreseeable future
with the vast majority of systems operational through the year 2020.
74
Table 4-4. DoD Radar Frequency Operating Bands
Frequency-Band DoD Platform
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application Ship Aircraft Land
3-30 X Over-the Horizon
216-225 X Space Surveillance
420-450 X 2D Air Search
Airborne Early Warning (AEW)
902-928 X
2D Air Search
Target Acquisition
Surveillance Radar
1215-1390 X
Target Acquisition
Aerostat-borne Surveillance
3D Long Range Air Surveillance
Tactical Air Surveillance
Low-Altitude Aircraft Detection
Weapon System IFF
2360-2390 X
Surveillance
Search, Track & Missile Direction
Tactical Air Defense Surveillance
2900-3100 X
Surveillance
Search, Track & Missile Direction
Navigation & Collision Avoidance
Airborne Early Warning (AEW)
Tactical Air Defense Surveillance
3100-3600 X
Search, Track & Missile Direction
Navigation & Collision Avoidance
Carrier-Controlled Surveillance
Airborne Early Warning (AEW)
Radar Altimeters
Tactical Air Defense Surveillance
4200-4400 X Radar Altimeters
5250-5350 X Missile & Fire-Control
5350-5650 X Missile & Fire-Control
Sea Surface Search
5650-5850 X Missile & Fire-Control
Sea Surface Search
5850-5925 X Missile & Fire-Control
75
Table 4-4. DoD Radar Frequency Operating Bands (Continued)
Frequency-Band DoD Platform
(MHz)
Government
use only
Shared
Bands DoD Application Ship Aircraft Land
8500-9000 X
Navigation & Collision Avoidance
Acquisition & Tracking
Missile & Fire-Control
Submarine Surface Nav/Search
Aircraft Control Approach
Maritime Surveillance
Helicopter Search
Multi-mode Fire-Control
ASW Search
Multi-mode Airborne Radar
Navigation & Mapping
Terrain Following/Avoidance
SAR & Moving Target Indicator (MTI)
Radar Altimeters
Search, Rescue & Weather Avoidance
Portable Ground Surveillance
Long-Range Theatre Ballistic Missile
Detection
14,500-15,350 X SAR & Moving Target Indicator (MTI)
Vehicle Speed Detection
15,700-17,300 X
Multi-mode Airborne Radar
Fire-Control
Navigation & Mapping
Terrain Following/Avoidance
SAR/GMTI
SAR for UAS
Long-Range Theatre Ballistic Missile
Detection
Transponder Beacon
24,050-24,250 X Navigation & Mapping
Terrain Following/Avoidance
33,400-36,000 X
Aircraft Control Approach
Navigation & Mapping
Terrain Following/Avoidance
Multi-mode Airborne Radar
4.5.5 Future Radar Spectrum Requirements
DoD is projected to experience a significant increase in future spectrum use by radar
systems. Although the projected growth in radar spectrum requirements will be distributed
throughout the current frequency bands, the most significant growth will be in the upper bands.
The growth in the lower frequency bands are due to the fielding of follow-on systems with
enhanced capabilities that require increased spectrum access for functionality of the system.
These new radars generally process a much wider signal bandwidth than current generation
systems in order to provide additional processing capability and enhanced target recognition
capabilities which fuel increased demand. Systems employed on Navy Aegis ships and the
future 2-4 GHz band Volume Search Radar (VSR) to be used on the next-generation destroyer
DD (X) introduce additional spectrum demand over and above current applications and reflect
the trend toward increased occupied bandwidth requirements for emerging applications.
76
Particularly, in the case of the VSR, the increased spectrum required will improve the ability of
these ships to track aircraft and missiles and to effectively counter missiles and other projectiles.
Several other new radar systems will utilize frequencies in the range from 8 to 30 GHz.
The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) ground-based radar systems take advantage of the
characteristics of high frequencies, as do the space-based radar, the advanced moving target
indicator (MTI) radars, and Synthetic Aperture radars (SAR). Of note is the increased use of
SAR and MTI radars on UASs and other airborne platforms. These radars not only provide
increased resolution and imaging capability but also require greater bandwidth to achieve the
detail associated with SAR and MTI images. Occupied bandwidth requirements for the new
advanced SAR radars can range from 600 MHz to over 1 GHz of occupied bandwidth to support
full operation. Newer applications will include features such as multi-function and dual band
modes and systems designed for intrusion detection and improved space surveillance. The new
MDA radar systems will afford protection against conventional and Nuclear, Biological and
Chemical (NBC) theater missiles. The increased use of SAR radars systems will take advantage
of the long-range propagation characteristics of radar signals and the complex information
processing capability of modern digital electronics that provide the military with high-resolution
imagery and targeting information.
Table 4-5 shows the radar frequency bands that DoD will utilize through 2020 and also identifies
the frequency bands that will experience a significant growth in spectrum requirements.
Table 4-5. Future DoD Radar Spectrum Requirements through 2020
Frequency-Band (MHz) Continued DoD Use Increased Use
3-30 YES
30-88
108-138
138-144
144-150.05
162.0125-173.200
173.4-174
216-225
225-328.6 YES
328.6-335.4 YES
335.4-399.9 YES
400.05-406.1
406.1-410
410-420
420-450 YES
902-928
932-935
941-944
77
Table 4-5. Future DoD Radar Spectrum Requirements through 2020 (Continued)
Frequency-Band (MHz) Continued DoD Use Increased Use
960-1215
1215-1390 YES
1390-1400 YES
1400-1427
1427-1432
1432-1435
1435-1710
1710-1755
1755-1850 YES
2200-2290 YES
2290-2360 YES
2360-2390 YES
2390-2700 YES
2700-2900 YES
2900-3100 YES
3100-3600 YES
4200-4400
4400-4635
4635-4685
4685-4990
5000-5250
5250-5350
5350-5650
5650-5850
5850-5925
7125-8450 YES
8450-8500 YES
8500-9000 YES
9500-10,450 YES
10,000-10,450 YES
14,500-15,350 YES
15,700-17,300 YES
20,200-21,200 YES
24,050-24,250 YES
25,250-27,500 YES
30,000-31,000 YES
33,400-36,000 YES
78
4.5.6 Impact of Increased Radar Spectrum Demand
The frequency bands typically occupied by search and surveillance radar systems are
heavily congested and highly coveted due to the favorable physics of these bands for
communications applications. Radar and communications systems must operate in close
physical proximity without causing significant interference to the other system. The limited
spectrum availability for low band radar systems restricts the degree of jamming protection that
can be provided, thereby, exposing such systems to greater vulnerability to enemy electronic
warfare systems. Coalition forces demonstrated the effect of jamming search radar by exploiting
such limitations in the enemy’s search radar during Operation Iraqi Freedom. The result was the
ability of coalition forces to attack with minimal detection and warning, enabling them to quickly
establish air superiority and conduct a highly effective ground war with minimal impact to Allied
forces. Due to the constraining environment in which these radars operate, it is unlikely that this
situation can be significantly ameliorated in the foreseeable future. Any loss in spectrum would
have a severe impact and would greatly increase the operational constraints, potentially to the
point of precluding operation.
While the upper frequencies captured by the fire control/imaging radar category are the
least constrained of the three radar categories, there is an increasing trend in the use of the upper
bands for new radar systems. As discussed above, some of the very high-resolution imaging
systems inherently require access to large blocks of contiguous spectrum for operation (wide
band pulse as compared to frequency hopped). These large spectrum block requirements are a
unique challenge in spectrum planning. Consequently, as technologies evolve to take advantage
of the frequencies available in the upper bands, competition for spectrum will likewise increase.
This competition can be evidenced by the increased use of the upper frequency bands by
commercial applications which compete for spectrum in the 5 GHz range with military radar
systems.
4.6 Training, Test and Evaluation Spectrum
Training and test and evaluation (T&E) missions each have different, independent
objectives. However, they most often share common RF equipment and common resources; and,
are often conducted in parallel to ensure realistic operational testing while maximizing training
opportunities for military units. The demand for spectrum to support training and T&E events
has increased over the last decade and will continue to increase as the design, development,
testing, fielding, and employment of systems in support of force transformation is matched more
closely with DoD warfighting needs. For the military to be effective and efficient, it is essential
that DoD possess the requisite capabilities to accomplish the mission. In support of this
objective, military equipment must be tested for operational performance at a sustained
warfighting tempo and in realistic environments that best represent how and where the
equipment will be required to function. Similarly, training for future military operations
translates operational concepts into achievable processes for which vigorous unit training is a
fundamental building block. Training fosters Service readiness and emphasizes the need for all
personnel to acquire the requisite skills essential for mission accomplishment. This means that
personnel must train as they intend to fight and that they must have access to required spectrum
to fully evaluate and understand their operational systems as well as having spectrum for
79
evaluation, scoring, and other post-event analysis purposes. Thus, having sufficient spectrum is
essential not only to battlefield success, but it is equally important in the testing environment.
4.6.1 US Training and T&E Facilities
DoD ranges have unique and specialized spectrum requirements that are essential to
military success. Training and T&E ranges support operations essential to attaining overall
warfighting goals. They provide realistic environments to enable full-up systems testing, to
evaluate operational effectiveness and suitability requirements, and to stress operational units
before actual employment in a contingency or operation. Additionally, for all Major Defense
Acquisition Programs, the legacy programs and systems that must operate with them are subject
to interoperability evaluations throughout the acquisition cycle to validate their ability to support
mission accomplishment. The range facilities provide the necessary real estate and specialized
monitoring equipment to accomplish these tasks. Accordingly, DoD has ranges throughout the
world to support required operations with the vast majority of these facilities located within the
US. Although training and T&E events are ongoing daily at the majority of DoD facilities, the
major range facilities conduct the bulk of T&E as well as the large-scale training events. The
major US ranges are shown in Figure 4-3.
Figure 4-3. Major US Range Facilities
As seen in Figure 4-3, many of these facilities are situated near high-density population
areas, which presents a challenge to have sufficient spectrum for all ongoing events in the
presence of dense commercial communication activities. For example, Figure 4-4 depicts the
80
range and test facilities with overlapping rings that represent the average radiating area of a
typical S-band aeronautical telemetry transmitter. The red circles show the authorized aircraft
operating radius for each of the facilities with S-band channel assignments. The dotted blue
circles show the line-of-sight range of the transmitter for an aircraft flying at an altitude of
36,000 feet. The chart illustrates that electromagnetic emissions can extend substantially beyond
the facility operating areas, which emphasizes the day-to-day close management and detailed
scheduling that is required to avoid interference. Current management techniques include
sharing of frequencies by lower priority systems and borrowing frequencies from other
government facilities. While these are workable (stopgap) measures, they will not ensure
spectrum support for the long term.
Figure 4-4. Average S-band Telemetry Radiated Distance
4.6.2 Training and T&E Spectrum Demand
Spectrum requirements for training and T&E are extensive due to the need to provide
dedicated spectrum to support a variety of simultaneous functions such as:
• Spectrum for the forces conducting the training, commonly called the Blue forces;
• Spectrum for a similar size force that represents the enemy or opposing force;
• Spectrum for safety systems, scoring systems, video collection, training
• Spectrum for any new equipment undergoing tests to include unique spectrum
81
required for the test function, such as range control, support equipment, and test
instrumentation;
• Spectrum for real-time aeronautical telemetry; and
• Spectrum required for the day-to-day operation of the training or test facility (i.e.,
security, fire, safety, and administrative links).
One of the challenges presented in training and T&E events is to provide sufficient
spectrum for operational systems while also ensuring that range infrastructure, test
instrumentation, and associated scoring equipment is spectrally supported. It is important to note
that typical training requirements exceed the spectrum demand for military contingency
operations. This higher spectrum demand for training is due to the discrete spectrum assigned
not only for the forces conducting the training, but also for a similar size force that represents the
enemy or opposing force. In addition to these requirements, there are unique demands for
spectrum at individual training facilities. These requirements include safety support, scoring
systems, video collection, instrumentation, and umpire (White Team) support. These three types
of requirements for spectrum are each distinctive and are the major factors contributing to the
high demand for spectrum in support of training. As discussed in the training and T&E facilities
section above, providing sufficient spectrum for these requirements must be accomplished in
many areas of the US where there also exists a large concentration of commercial RF
transmissions.
This report has detailed DoD current and future spectrum requirements for operational
warfighting systems. Figure 4-5 depicts the unique range functions that must also be supported,
which are in addition to the operational warfighting systems and functions previously discussed.
TTeelleemmeettrryy
EExxppeerriimmeennttaall SSyysstteemmss
Unit Training /
Transformational
Concepts
TTaarrggeett CCoonnttrrooll
Integrated Live/
Simulated Testing
Time & Space
Positioning Information
Figure 4-5. Unique DoD Range Functions
82
Dedicated range systems support the above functions by transmitting the data streams
necessary to conduct test and training. The size and number of data streams varies with the
equipment being tested and data collection requirements. When planning for spectrum, the
projected number of transmitters per control station, test vehicle, number of vehicles, and size of
the data streams is used to determine the bandwidth required to perform the mission and is
calculated based on the projected data collection requirements. As military systems have
increased in complexity, the data rates have had to increase accordingly with a corresponding
increase in spectrum demand. Table 4-6 identifies the major dedicated range system
applications and the associated operating bands.
Table 4-6. Training and T&E Range Applications
Of note, spectrum for instrumentation is predominantly in bands that support operational
systems and is in high demand within the Continental United States (CONUS). It becomes a
significant challenge to balance the needs for spectrum between the evaluation of a system under
test and a unit’s performance, yet provide the Training Force the spectrum it requires in order to
30-88 Observer Network
225-400
Weapons Scoring Systems
Traget Control
Assessment / Evaluation
Data Transfer
Range Communications
400.05-420 Weapons Scoring Systems
420-450 Range Safety
Drone Control
1390-1710 Range Telemetry
1755-1850
Missile Scoring
Range Telemetry
Air Combat Training
Target Control
2200-2290 Range Telemetry
2290-2700 Range Telemetry
Weapons Scoring
3100-3600 Projectile Scoring
Missile Scoring
4400-4990 Drone Control
Event Video Recording
5000-5250 Event Video Recording
5350-5650 Drone Control / Range
Tracking Radar
5650-5850 Drone Control / Range
Tracking Radar
5850-5925 Drone Control
Bands Utilized for DoD Range Systems
Frequency-Band
(MHz) Range Application
83
accomplish its training objectives. As the principal function of the ranges is to evaluate and
determine the adequacy and efficiency of scheduled events, instrumentation is critical. This
necessitates that deference be given to instrumentation systems in making spectrum assignments
at the expense of other systems in the same frequency bands. Too often, training units must
shutdown or suffer a loss of operating RF frequencies.
4.6.3 Future Training Spectrum Requirements
The density of spectrum use in training areas and spectrum requirements for tactical
systems will grow throughout the next decade. This growth is attributable to the increased
spectrum that will be needed for tactical systems (as discussed in previous sections of this
report); the need to exercise the equipment during training events; and the increase in data
collection requirements.
There are many reasons for the increase in range systems spectrum needs. Each new
generation of weapons system incorporates the latest increases in electronic and information
technology. High performance systems are now designed to operate at the extremes of the
envelope and are maintained by a complicated network of computers, sensors, and actuators
whose detailed performance must be monitored. Accordingly, more data must be examined in
order to evaluate performance of these advanced systems, which results in the need for very large
amounts of spectrum. Spectrum demand is further compounded as overhead incurred from link
security, error correction coding, network management, and other support provisions are added
to the systems and therefore drive additional spectrum needs which are, in turn, added to the
overall spectrum required for a test event. Consequently, the demand for training and T&E
spectrum is forecasted to increase significantly in the future.
An example of this projected growth was identified in platforms with the most
demanding requirements for telemetry spectrum needed only about 300 kilohertz (kHz) to
support the test requirements of a single platform. In 2000, the analogous requirement was 30
MHz, a one hundred-fold increase. The same study found that by the year 2020, a test vehicle
will arrive at a test range and require approximately 400 MHz of telemetry spectrum, almost
twice as much as what is currently available. This projection assumes that a specific state-of-theart
spectrum efficient technology will have been implemented in the mid-term.
4.6.4 Impact of Increased Training on Spectrum Demand
Providing required training and T&E spectrum in highly populated frequency bands
poses a significant challenge. Sufficient spectrum to operate all operational and threat systems is
critical to successful training and a challenge in areas where government and civilian
requirements co-exist.
Insufficient spectrum at range facilities to accommodate all range monitoring and
performance systems will result in the loss or degradation of a critical test and evaluation
function that can ultimately affect acquisition programs. If the function is a form of data
collection, and the data cannot be gathered by any other means at that range, the entire test
program may have to be reevaluated to determine if the data is mandatory to evaluate the
effectiveness or suitability of the system undergoing testing. If it is determined that the data is
essential to perform an adequate evaluation of the weapon system, the test may have to be
84
relocated to another range that can collect the required data or a detailed risk analysis undertaken
to determine the impact of the unavailable data. In many cases, a risk analysis is not sufficient to
confirm operational performance and form the basis for acquisition. Depending on the leadtime,
the delays to move events or to reschedule due to unacceptable risk impacts could result in
significant program delays, or possibly unexpected cost overruns. Even if there are alternative
means of collecting data, these methods are generally not as effective, are more time consuming,
or both, which could also result in program delays or fielding less effective systems to the
warfighter.
Congestion in the telemetry bands is already beginning to be experienced at some test
ranges and many projects today are operating at a less than optimal test efficiency due to lack of
real-time spectrum availability. Missions have been delayed and lost due to lack of sufficient
spectrum to schedule activities. This has resulted in test delays, increased costs, and higher test
risks. Examples of these impacts to the US test ranges were documented in a National
Telecommunication and Information Administration (NTIA) special publication, which cites
impacts to several military projects as a result of spectrum limitations.30 This situation is
expected to exacerbate over the foreseeable future.
4.7 Transformational Capabilities Driving Future Spectrum Needs
Growth
This section presents two key capabilities (Unmanned Systems and Future Combat
Systems) that are illustrative of the growth in DoD electromagnetic spectrum requirements due
to the evolving DoD mission and need for increased capabilities. The discussion is intended to
provide an understanding of how the military is highly dependent on electromagnetic spectrum
for current and future operations and how Net-Centric warfare concepts impact the demand for
spectrum access.
4.7.1 Unmanned Systems: Unmanned Air Systems (UAS) and Unmanned
Ground Systems (UGS)
Current DoD demand for spectrum to support UAS and UGS is extensive and will
continue to grow as a more sophisticated and capable force of unmanned systems are fielded in
the next 15- 20 years. The forecasted growth is due to a variety of reasons that include the
number and mix of unmanned systems deployed in support of DoD missions, the number of RF
dependent devices required to remotely operate the systems and employ mission equipment, and
the increased use of more sophisticated onboard sensor systems that require increased bandwidth
to support enhanced processing requirements. With the need to autonomously launch, operate,
and recover these systems, it is paramount to have sufficient electromagnetic spectrum to enable
interference free operations.
Unmanned systems, in general, are changing the conduct of military operations. They are
the preferred solution over manned counterparts especially when the requirements involve long
30 Spectrum Reallocation Study as Required by the Balanced Budget Act of 1997. Special publication 98-36 National
Telecommunication and Information Administration (NTIA).
85
dwell time for surveillance, sampling for hazardous material, and extreme exposure to hostile
action. Each Service is developing a wide range of unmanned capabilities, and the Office of the
Secretary of Defense (OSD) is responsible for ensuring these capabilities support the
Department’s larger goal of fielding transformational capabilities.
4.7.1.1 Unmanned Air Systems
DoD’s use of UASs continues to expand and encompass a broad range of mission
capabilities. As stated in the DoD UAS Roadmap,31 “the use of UASs in military operations has
expanded rapidly since entering the war on terror in the fall of 2001… unmanned aircraft have
transformed the battlespace with innovative tactics, techniques, and procedures.” UASs provide
surveillance, intelligence, reconnaissance, and fire support and are becoming increasingly relied
upon by Combatant Commanders.
Current and future UASs are diverse in size, weight, and mission performance. They
range from Micro Air Vehicles (MAV) weighing less than one pound that can be carried and
operated by an individual soldier to aircraft weighing over 40,000 pounds that require dedicated
support teams to operate but provide a broader range of capabilities than the MAVs. UASs
perform a vast array of DoD missions including surveillance, reconnaissance, chemical and
biological detection, and weapons delivery. Figure 4-6 shows the on-going and planned UAS
programs of record through 2020.
Figure 4-6. UAS Inventory through 2020
31 Unmanned Aircraft Systems Roadmap 2005 -2030. Office of the Secretary of Defense August 4, 2005
UCAV X-46/X-47
Dragon Warrior
Air Force
Global Hawk
UCAV X-45
Predator
FPASS
Camcopter
Army
UCAR A-160
Shadow
Hunter
Pointer
I-Gnat
Navy
Marine Corps
Predator
Fire Scout
Dragon Drone
Dragon Eye
UAS Deployment
Pioneer
SCAN Eagle
SnowGoose
Neptune
Silver Fox
BAMS
2005 2010 2015 2020
86
4.7.1.2 UAS Spectrum Demand
Every aspect of UAS operations depends on the assured availability of spectrum to
support RF systems. Accordingly, electromagnetic spectrum use by UAS is extensive and
requires systems to operate in a variety of frequency bands to provide full functionality and
mission accomplishment. A typical UAS may require spectrum for its RF based systems in up to
14 different frequency bands to support such functions as: launch and recovery; platform
control; payload functionality; sensor data transfer; navigation; weapons functions; situational
awareness; and communications relay. The characteristics of the frequency band and regulatory
allocation, as with other RF systems, have a significant bearing on the function performed by the
system. The RQ-4 Global Hawk is illustrative of UAS spectrum dependency and its nominal
spectrum usage is featured in Figure 4-7.
Figure 4-7. RQ-4 Global Hawk Spectrum Dependency
The Global Hawk system consists of the aircraft, Launch and Recovery Element (LRE),
and Mission Control Element (MCE). The LRE controls the aircraft via the line-of-sight (LOS)
Common Data Link (CDL) operating in the X and Ku-Bands, LOS VHF and UHF, and beyond
line-of-sight (BLOS) UHF SATCOM radios. The MCE contains all of the aircraft control
functions of the LRE. In addition, the MCE provides for sensor control as well as receipt and
dissemination of payload products. The MCE maintains situational awareness via a variety of
means including GPS and Link-16. MCE aircraft command and control is accomplished using
narrow band LOS UHF radio and UHF SATCOM with Inmarsat as a back up command and
UAS Spectrum Requirements
Application / Frequency
• Differential GPS: 112 - 117 MHz
• VHF Voice: 118 – 136 MHZ
• UHF Voice: 225 - 400 MHz
• IFF: 1030 / 1090 MHz
• Link-16: 960 - 1215 MHz
• GPS L2: 1217 - 1235 MHz
• Flight Test Telemetry: 1530 - 1559 MHz
• GPS L1: 1565 - 1585 MHz
Application / Frequency
• Flight Test Telemetry: 2300 - 2400 MHz
• Radar Altimeter: 4200 - 4400 MHz
• Sensor Suite: 8 - 10 GHz
• Data Link: 9.75 – 10.425 GHz
• Ku Commercial Satcom Downlink: 10.95 –
12.75 GHz
• Ku Satcom Uplink, 14.0 –14.5 GHz
• Data Link: 14.5 – 15.35 GHz
87
control link. The LOS CDL as well as Ku-band SATCOM also provide command and control
channels. Sensor data flows from the aircraft to the MCE via either LOS X and Ku-Band CDL
or Ku-band SATCOM. Figure 4-8 depicts the current UAS RF architecture, which further
illustrates UAS spectrum dependence.
Figure 4-8. Current UAS Architecture
UAS Architecture
Fixed UAV
Processing and
Exploitation
Node
RF
Predator
Hunter UAV
Altitude
High (>50K ft.)
Medium (16-49K ft.)
Low (<15k ft.="" p="">
Surface
Forward Deployed UAV
Processing and
Exploitation Node/Launch
& Recovery Element (may
or may not be collocated)
SUAV Pioneer
Satellite
Segment
RQ-4 Global Hawk
Shadow 200
88
4.7.1.3 Unmanned Ground Systems
DoD continues to develop UGS to support a variety of missions, increase combat
effectiveness, and enhance personnel safety. As with UAS, UGS are also diverse in size, weight,
and mission performance. UGS missions include detection, neutralization, breaching of
minefields, and other obstacles. These obstacles include: explosive ordnance disposal; physical
security; fire-fighting; urban warfare; weapons employment; and operations in contaminated and
other denied areas. On the battlefield, they assist in increasing situational awareness by
providing observation of tactical objectives and potential danger areas beyond line-of-sight
where human access is impractical or unsustainable. The Army and Marines are the largest users
of UGS technology and both are expected to increase usage in the future. The Navy has also
invested in UGS technology for use in the ocean environment for mine warfare, anti-submarine
warfare, riverine operations, and special forces operations. Figure 4-9 shows the on-going and
planned UGS programs of record through 2020.
Figure 4-9. UGS Inventory Through 2020
4.7.1.4 UGS Spectrum Demand
Although UGS do not typically require as many RF systems or links to operate as UAS,
they are, no less, dependent on the electromagnetic spectrum for functionality. A typical UGS
mission requires spectrum in seven frequency bands. A notional system consists of the vehicle,
sensor, sensor interface, remote controller, and situational awareness module. UGS control links
most often operate in the VHF or UHF bands with many systems utilizing unlicensed 802.11
devices for the control function. UGS data links operate in the L and S-bands and are equipped
with GPS for location information.
4.7.1.5 Future UAS and UGS Spectrum Requirements
DoD forecasts significant growth in spectrum requirements to support unmanned
systems. As discussed earlier, this projected growth is due to an expected increased number of
Air Force
ARTS
Sensor
-Microbots
Attack
-Microbots
Packbot
Man Portable
-Sensory System
Army
Talon
MDARS-I
MDARS-E
Demo III XUV
Matilda
Marine Corps
Dragon Runner
SARGE
Navy
Remote Minehunting
Vehicle
UGS Deployment Inventory
2005 2010 2015 2020
89
unmanned systems deployed on the battlefield and the use of more sophisticated onboard sensor
systems that require additional operating bandwidth. UAS will be the greatest contributor to the
increased demand for spectrum. Due to operating altitude and antenna characteristics, they must
be assigned discrete frequencies to preclude interference and support safe and uninterrupted
operational performance. Thus, as the number of systems and rate of use increase, the demand
for dedicated operating frequencies also increases.
The single largest contributor to increased unmanned system spectrum demand will be to
support airborne data links. Data link rates and processor speeds are in a race to enhance future
unmanned capabilities. Today, and in the near-term, the CDL is the primary data link utilized to
transfer airborne data. The CDL requires 274 MHz of spectrum in the X and Ku-band to support
transfer of sensor information. As sensor resolution increases, the demand for increased data
link spectrum will rise significantly. For example, the fielding of a new sensor for the Global
Hawk system projected for 2015 will require over 1 GHz of bandwidth to support the associated
information transfer requirements. The availability of 1 GHz of spectrum is currently difficult
and will become increasingly problematic as forecasted frequency congestion occurs. This is
especially true for data links in the 1-8 GHz range, which covers L, S, and C-bands. Table 4-7
presents UAS and UGS operating bands and identifies those bands that will experience increased
demand as new and more capable unmanned systems are deployed.
Table 4-7. UAS and UGS Operating Bands and Future Requirements
Current an Frequency-Band d Future UAS and UGS Increased Demand
(MHz) UAS UGS DoD Application UAS UGS
30-88 Pointer Command Control Link
108-150.05 Global Hawk
UCAV X-45
GPS
Voice Yes
225-399.9
Global Hawk
UCAV X-45
FPASS
UCAR
Predator B
Fire Scout
(VTUAV)
Dragon Eye
Dragon Warrior
J-UCAS
Pioneer
Shadow
SATCOM
Command Control Link Yes
400.05-420 SARGE Radar
Command Control Link Yes
420-450 Pointer
Pioneer
Video Link
SAR/MTI
902-928 Hunter Dragon Runner Sensor
Command Control Relay
960-1215 UCAV X-45 Remote Mine
Hunting Vehicle
IFF
JTIDS Yes
1215-1390 Global Hawk
Predator B
Remote Mine
Hunting Vehicle GPS Yes
90
Table 4-7. UAS and UGS Operating Bands and Future Requirements (Continued)
Current and Future UAS and UGS Increased Demand
Frequency-Band
(MHz) UAS UGS DoD Application UAS UGS
1390-1435 Remote Mine
Hunting Vehicle Command Control Link
1435-1710 Global Hawk
UCAV X-45
Remote Mine
Hunting Vehicle
GPS
Video Link
SAR
Yes
1710-1850
UCAV X-45
FPASS
Pointer
Dragon Eye
Silver Fox
SnowGoose
ARTS
Packbot
Talon
MDARS-I
MDARS-E
Matilda
Remote Mine
Hunting Vehicle
Dragon Runner
Data Link
Video Link Yes Yes
2360-2390 Flight Test Telemetry
2390-2700 Shadow
Packbot
Talon
MDARS-I
MDARS-E
Matilda
Command Control Link Yes
4200-4400
Global Hawk
UCAV X-45
BAMS
I-GNAT
SARGE Radar Altimeter Yes
4400-5250
Hunter
Pioneer
Shadow
Predator
ARTS Sensor YES
5250-5350
Predator
Camcopter
Shadow
Hunter
Pioneer
I-GNAT
5350-5650
Predator
I-GNAT
Shadow
Hunter
Pioneer
Video Link
Telemetry
5650-5850
Predator
Shadow
I-GNAT
Hunter
5850-5925 SATCOM
7125-8500 Global Hawk Sensor YES
8500-9000 Global Hawk Multi-mode Radar
ISAR YES
9000-9500 Global Hawk Sensor YES
9500-10,450 Global Hawk
Fire Scout CDL YES
91
Table 4-7. UAS and UGS Operating Bands and Future Requirements (Continued)
Current and Future UAS and UGS Increased Demand
Frequency-Band
(MHz) UAS UGS DoD Application UAS UGS
10,450-15,350
Global Hawk
Predator
Predator B
UCAR
Fire Scout
(VTUAV)
Dragon Warrior
SATCOM
Command Control Link
TCDL
SAR
YES
15,700-17,300 Predator Synthetic Aperture Radar YES
20,000-21,200
Global Hawk
UCAV
Predator
YES
30,000-31,000
Global Hawk
UCAV
Predator
YES
4.7.1.6 Impact of UAS and UGS on Increased Demand
As with many other DoD systems and services, the spectrum requirements of unmanned
systems will continue in all of the same frequency bands utilized today but will grow in selected
bands as identified in Table 4-7. In these bands, there will be a steady rise in the number of
frequencies required to support the growing use of unmanned systems, an increase in the
bandwidth for frequencies to support increased data transfer, and an increase in the time of
operation due to longer on-station requirements. Meeting the increased requirement for
spectrum dedicated to support unmanned systems will require increased attention to spectrum
management schemes and scheduling to promote sharing of frequencies. Additionally,
technologies that increase onboard processing and compression of sensor data will assist in
reducing the amount of contiguous bandwidth needed to support airborne data links. Without
significant spectrum reuse and fielding of spectrum efficient technologies, unmanned systems
will be constrained in the use of spectrum to achieve overall mission needs and may require
highly refined scheduling plans to ensure operations are executed within the limits of available
spectrum.
4.7.2 Future Combat Systems (FCS)
Future Combat System will be another key capability impacting DoD’s future spectrum
requirements. As detailed earlier, DoD is undergoing a transformation in capabilities and in the
way we organize and support the warfighter. FCS is a core building block for this
transformation and an excellent illustration of DoD’s dependence on, and increased demand for,
the electromagnetic spectrum. FCS is an Army led, joint networked system of systems
connected via an advanced network architecture that will enable levels of joint connectivity,
situational awareness and understanding, and synchronized operations heretofore unachievable
on the mobile battlefield. The Army’s FCS-equipped Units of Action (UA) will be its future
tactical warfighting echelon. FCS will network existing systems, systems under development,
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and systems to be developed that meet the requirements of the UA. FCS will incorporate a
variety of spectrum-dependent systems operating across various bands of the frequency
spectrum, thus access to the electromagnetic spectrum will be essential to fully support FCS
system functionality. After initial prototype testing and evaluation, FCS fielding will commence
in 2010 with the first fully FCS equipped UA operational in 2014.
As depicted in Figure 4-10, FCS includes 18 systems consisting of unmanned ground
systems; unattended munitions, the Non-Line of Sight – Launch System (NLOS-LS), and
Intelligent Munitions System (IMS); four classes of UASs organic to platoon, company,
battalion, and Unit of Action (UA) echelons; three classes of unmanned ground vehicles, the
Armed Robotic Vehicle (ARV), Small Unmanned Ground Vehicle (SUGV), and Multifunctional
Utility/Logistics and Equipment Vehicle (MULE); and eight manned ground vehicles
plus the individual soldier - all integrated via the FCS wireless network.
Figure 4-10. Future Combat Systems
4.7.2.1 Future Combat System Wireless Network
Individual FCS platforms will be equipped with a variety of RF emitters that will operate
across frequency bands to provide offensive and defensive capabilities. However, the core of
FCS will be the multi-layered FCS wireless network, which will have unprecedented range,
capacity, and dependability. The FCS network will provide secure, reliable access to
information sources over extended distances and complex terrain. The network will support
dissemination of critical information among sensors, processors, and warfighters both within and
external to the FCS-equipped organization. The network will be embedded in the FCS platforms
and will move with the combat formations. This will enable superior Battle Command (BC) onthe-
move to achieve offensive-oriented, high-tempo operations.
NLOS
Cannon
ICV
R&SV
C2V
NLOS
Mortar
Medical
Vehicle
UAV
(CL1 & CL II)
SUGV
UGS
UAV
(CL III & IV)
MULE &
ARV-A (L)
MCS
LW FCS
FRMV
IMS
NLOS-LS
93
The FCS wireless network will be comprised of several homogenous communication
systems such as JTRS with Wideband Network Waveform (WNW) and Soldier Radio Waveform
(SRW), Network Data Link, and Warfighter Information Network–Tactical (WIN-T). FCS
leverages all available resources to provide a robust, survivable, scalable, and reliable
heterogeneous communications network that seamlessly integrates ground, near ground,
airborne, and spaceborne assets for constant connectivity and layered redundancy. Every FCS
vehicle in the Unit of Action (UA) will be equipped with a 4 or 8-channel Joint Tactical Radio
System (JTRS). Soldiers and other weight and power-constrained platforms will be equipped
with a 1 or 2-channel JTRS radio. In addition to the WNW and SRW communications
backbone, the software programmable JTRS will support other waveforms to ensure current
force Joint, Interagency, and Multi-national (JIM) interoperability. The WIN-T will provide
additional communications capability within the Unit of Action (UA) as well as reach to senior
echelons.
Supporting the FCS equipped UA will be a distributed and networked array of ISR
sensors allowing FCS the ability to provide timely and accurate situational awareness (SA),
enhance survivability by avoiding enemy fires, enable precision networked fires, and maintain
contact throughout engagement. FCS will process real-time ISR data, outputs from survivability
systems, situational awareness (SA) data, and target identification information to update the
common operating picture (COP) containing information on friendly forces, battlespace objects
(BSOs), BSO groupings and associated intent, threat potential, and vulnerabilities. The real-time
distribution and dissemination of information and data are reliant on robust, reliable, and highcapacity
network data links that require assured access to spectrum for functionality.
4.7.2.2 Future Combat System Spectrum Demand
Parallel with the development of FCS systems, DoD is conducting detailed engineering
studies and analysis to determine spectrum requirements to support the FCS equipped UA.
Although the exact requirements have not been confirmed, various studies have concluded that
FCS’s demand for spectrum is forecasted to grow significantly and could result in as much as a
50 – 60% increase over the spectrum required for similar sized units deployed today. The
projected increase is due to the development of advanced ad-hoc networking technologies to link
FCS while also supporting the information demand associated with other tactical systems such as
unmanned vehicles, battlefield sensors, precision munitions, real-time video, and situational
awareness. Since FCS will rely heavily on the JTRS with WNW and SRW, growth in spectrum
demand will be concentrated in the frequency bands below 2 GHz commensurate with the JTRS
design. Frequency bands currently under consideration for FCS use are the 225- 399.9 MHz,
1350-1390 MHz, and 1755-1850 MHz bands. Although use of these bands has not been
confirmed, DoD expects that the highest demand for FCS spectrum will be in the bands between
1 and 2 GHz due to the planned implementation of WNW above 1 GHz.
To understand the demand for spectrum and heavy reliance on the frequency bands below
2 GHz, we must understand the environment, the way DoD plans to fight, and what capabilities
and functionalities have to traverse RF dependent systems. As discussed earlier in this report,
DoD operates RF equipment across various frequency bands due to capability requirements and
the ability of various frequency bands to meet those requirements. Since spectrum bandwidth
94
facilitates information capacity, spectrum bandwidth has become increasingly critical as the
requirement for information has increased. Additionally, what makes FCS demand for spectrum
inherently different from other implementations is the requirement to have a fully mobile tactical
communications infrastructure that can conduct combat operations on-the-move, at the quick
halt, and during sustained operations. This necessitates use of omni-directional systems, which
limits spectrum reuse and sharing. A second major fundamental difference is the requirement to
provide high bandwidth communications capability to large numbers of forces over a dispersed
area, which requires large blocks of contiguous spectrum. Thus, the forecast requirements for
spectrum to support FCS are a direct reflection of the increased capability of FCS units to
conduct combat operations over extended distances in austere environments.
4.7.2.3 FCS Impact on Increased Demand
DoD recognizes that spectrum is a finite resource and the use of this resource is, and must
be, prioritized. To assist in determining precise FCS spectrum requirements, the Army is
collecting information exchange requirements, data from field experiments, and operational
experience as well as information on legacy systems. This data is being evaluated via various
models and spectrum algorithms. The main premise in identifying spectrum to support the FCS
network architecture is that the required information must safely traverse the wireless network
regardless of the environment and arrive within identified timelines. The result of the on-going
analysis will be a spectrum requirements determination for implementation of FCS, which will
be identified in future revisions to this report.
4.8 Future DoD Spectrum Needs Forecasting
DoD continues to deploy updated sensors, radars, and communications systems with greatly
improved performance and capability; correspondingly, they also require more spectrum. Through the
experiences acquired in developing the 2005 DoD Strategic Spectrum Plan the DoD has recognized the
need for near- and far-term spectrum planning processes that provide a high degree of predictability. As
such, the Department’s draft 2007 Strategic Plan for Spectrum Management32 includes two
objectives that relate to spectrum requirements:
• The development of a comprehensive plan for the determination of current baseline
spectrum usage.
• The design and implementation of methods to analyze and forecast spectrum
requirements.
DoD also recognizes that the characterization of spectrum requirements, in terms of
reflecting spectrum utilization or access, requires a consistent framework within which to
classify and quantify both current and projected needs. Methodologies developed for the
representation of spectrum usage must have Department-wide application which can best be
achieved through the development of a structured framework for assessing spectrum needs and
accessibility. This includes modeling and simulation, the application of metrics, risk assessment,
and statistical methods.
32 Department of Defense, Office of Assistant Secretary of Defense (Networks and Information Integration), Draft
2007 Electromagnetic Spectrum Management Strategic Plan, Washington, D.C., Op. Cit.
95
5.0 Current and Future Use of Non-Federal Spectrum Offered by
Commercial Service Providers
DoD typically does not buy systems that it cannot deploy worldwide. Thus, it “must”
buy systems that are deployable (CONUS/OCONUS). In CONUS we can lease items but not
buy for deployability purposes. In CONUS locations (base, post, camp and stations) and local
operations are like mini cities. Due to local practices in the cities surrounding military
installations, items such as cell phones and commercial land lines are leased or used via
communication trunking stations when feasible. For instance, DoD’s mobile subscriber
equipment can interface with commercial communications, however, DoD is prohibited by law
from doing so; its use would interfere with the providers profit revenue.
In summary: DoD will use commercial services when possible. However, the purchase
of these services is tied to the worldwide deployability of the product.
96
6.0 Agency Current and Future Use of “Non-Licensed” Devices
DoD’s worldwide mission has presented a unique situation regarding spectrum. In the
“fast track” acquisition, commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) is often referred to as the way to field
systems quickly and cheaply. That is, research and development is performed by an independent
agency, and thus the Government saves money. Unfortunately, the primary market for these
systems is the commercial sector. When COTS equipment is purchased by the government, it
cannot always be supported in spectrum authorized for use by the military. There is, however, a
sub-set of COTS known as non-licensed devices, which are low power devices approved by the
FCC for use in the US&P. Some examples are: garage door openers, baby monitors, cordless
phones, and remote controlled cars or planes.
Frequency conflicts from COTS devices could possibly cause problems, and technical
characteristics cannot be changed once the equipment is purchased and placed into use. In order
to train as we fight, we must deploy to areas outside the US&P. Spectrum is not allocated the
same in every country and many of our systems are not allowed to operate in places where
training is taking place. A COTS device may work well in the US&P, but its use may be
restricted in another country. Thus, adopting a COTS solution is not always the best means to
meet military requirements. Also, non-licensed devices must operate within the limits placed
upon them by federal law. Spectrum supportability assessments, done in concert with a
spectrum manager, will ensure that the best possible decision is achieved.
DoD will use COTS and non-licensed systems in US&P areas due to the following
restrictions:
• Operational problems; potential loss of life;
• System can only be minimally used during peace-time exercises;
• System cannot be used during military operations; and
• Multiple systems to perform a single function because of Host Nation issues.
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7.0 DoD Spectrum Dependent Technology Initiatives
In the future, military commanders will operate in a dynamic, multi-layered, multidimensional
battlespace. This will require radio spectrum support that adapts to rapidly
changing conditions for highly mobile, widely dispersed forces. The Department of Defense
(DoD) demand for throughput is expected to increase dramatically. At the same time, worldwide
competition for radio spectrum has placed increasing pressure on US military spectrum usage
and the paradigm shift to asymmetric warfare only exacerbates this dilemma. Seemingly, future
assured access to spectrum will only be achieved through both the application of technologies
that increase channel efficiencies and by the supplement of spectrum allocated to DoD with
access to other government and commercial networks worldwide.
7.1 Planned, Future Uses of Spectrum Dependent Technologies or
Services
Over the next twenty years or so, US forces will experience operational environments
that are increasingly complex, uncertain, and dynamic. The Net-Centric Environment Joint
Functional Concept33 is an information and decision superiority-based concept of how joint
forces will organize and operate in the future. The networking of all joint force elements will
enable paralleled information sharing and collaboration. DTOs supporting this concept are well
targeted where the development of technologies to overcome a number of identified limitations
is concerned.
Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) –JTRS is a family of modular, software-defined, multiband,
multi-mode radios that will replace virtually the entire current inventory of tactical radios
as well as SATCOM terminals, eventually. Furthermore, JTRS will have inherent cross-banding
and a networking capability that will enable mobile forces to remain connected to an IP network.
Warfighter Information Network – Tactical (WIN T) – WIN-T is the US Army’s high-capacity,
high-speed, backbone communications network that will provide required reach, reachback,
interoperability, and network operations for the Maneuver Units of Action (UA) and will
seamlessly interface with JTRS. WIN-T will extend to the individual warfighter platform level
and offer continuous interoperability with other networks including legacy, joint, coalition, and
even commercial networks through utilization of all available links to support the warfighters
anywhere on the globe.
Common Data Link (CDL) – CDL will provide communications paths using JTRS/SCA
architecture. The project includes a number of separate tasks dealing with tactical CDL for
UAVs, a wideband integrated CDL for Network Centric Collaborative Targeting, and
development of ultra-wideband airborne laser development.
33 Net-Centric Environment Joint Functional Concept, Version 0.95, Office of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, December
30, 2004
98
Wideband Networking Waveform (WNW) – Wideband waveform development is an integral
part of the JTRS program. A key waveform that will provide high speed, high bandwidth
networking within the JTRS context is the WNW, which includes four signals-in-space
supporting user data rates up to 13.25 Mb/s.
7.2 DoD Technology Initiatives for Achieving Spectrum Utilization
Efficiencies
Future wideband networks will place new demands on efficient access to RF spectrum,
even as availability of spectrum for existing systems comes under new pressures. A 2003
Defense Science Board (DSB) Task Force Report34 recommended that efficiency of access and
utilization of spectrum may be improved by:
• Bandwidth-efficient signal design (i.e., coding and modulation);
• Adaptive techniques for changing signal parameters and frequency assignments as
required; and
• Using the spatial domain in conjunction with the frequency and time domains (spacetime
coding, adaptive, and multiple beams).
Within the Department of Defense, modulation and channel coding has been a productive
area of research for enhancing efficiency of spectrum utilization. Source coding, particularly
voice and video compression, reduces the bits-per-second required for a given application. DoD
has benefited from commercial progress in these areas; the exception might be a case where
unique requirements, such as electronic counter-countermeasures (ECCM) and low probability
of intercept (LPI), need to be satisfied.
The Defense Advanced Research Project Agency’s (DARPA) program for Next
Generation (XG) has a goal of developing, evaluating, and integrating technology to
automatically select spectrum and operating modes to both minimize disruption of existing users
and to ensure the most efficient operation of systems.
Defense Research & Engineering’s Project on Spectrum Efficient Technology Director
is concerned with spectrum for test and training (e.g., telemetry). Areas being investigated
include bandwidth-efficient modulation and coding, directional antennas, and channel modeling
for multi-path.
Each of the aforementioned represents only a small sample of on-going R&D initiatives
within DoD that are focused on improving spectrum utilization efficiency. Examples of other
DoD technology initiatives have been extracted from the FY 2008 DoD Research &
Development Descriptive Summaries (RDDS) and are presented throughout Table 7-1. The
table references potential impacts of these technologies with regard to the following:
• Frequency Reuse
• Bandwidth Efficiency
34 Report of the Defense Science Board Task Force on Wideband Radio Frequency Modulation, Office of the USD
for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics, July, 2003.
99
• Dynamic Management
• Interference Control
• Spectrum Sharing
• Spectrum Planning
• Increased Functionality
• Mission Enhancement
Moreover, a general description of near and long-term objectives of each R&D project is
presented.
100
Table 7-1 Selected DoD Spectrum Dependent Technology Initiatives
No. Name
F requen cy
R euse
Bandw id th
Effic ien cy
D ynam ic
M an ag em ent
In terfe ren ce
C ontrol
Spectrum
Sharing
Spectrum
P lanning
Increased
Functionality
M issio n
Enhancem e n t
Modeling and
Simulation (M&S) for
Network Designs
Current: Baseline network design capability to validate principles and rules that govern the behavior and performance of complex communication
networks; assess and characterize the behavior and performance of the network (higher physical, data link and network layers) through analytical
and M&S processes and technologies.
Future: Evaluate the network design capability on a surrogate future force network; interface network design algorithms with simulation;
characterize detailed end-to-end user performance metrics; assess effectiveness of new networking technologies. Extend the ad-hoc network
design tool to include modeling and representation of the C4ISR nodal functionalities; develop a comprehensive representation of the internal
operation and performance of network data dissemination mechanisms; improve the network traffic characterization model.
E2E Performance
Ad Hoc Networks
Network M&S X X X XX
COMPOSER
Communications Planner for Operational and Simulation Effects with Realism (COMPOSER): COMPOSER consists of the following software
modules: Communication Effects Simulator (CES), Network Visualizer (NV), Spectrum Manager, and Architecture Framework.
Current: Perform analysis of available radio models and waveforms and integrate the waveforms to test interoperability with COMPOSER tools;
mature spectrum management capability, improve the speed and accuracy of the CES.
Future: Complete enhancements to CES; will increase the integration of waveform models to CES; will complete spectrum management capability;
will develop final version of COMPOSER for transition to the Coalition Joint Spectrum Management Planning Tool Joint Concept Technology
Demonstrations.
Spectrum Planning
Application X X X X X XX
Radio Enabling
Technologies and
Nextgen Applications
(RETNA)
Current: Develop Handheld Manpack Small Form Fit (HMS) Joint Tactical Radio Systems (JTRS) Manpack Power Amplifier (PA) subsystem
brassboard; validate the PA's component performance and associated system-level capability; identify root causes of waveform porting difficulties
through failure and risk analyses to software defined radio (SDR).
Future: Perform detailed investigation and experimentation into the development of HW/SW and porting of waveforms onto JTRS representative SDR
platforms; will develop capability to reduce the complexity of porting software waveforms onto SDR hardware
Software Radio X X
Tactical Wireless
Network Assurance
(TWNA) / wireless
information assurance
(IA)
Current: Develop advanced IA techniques; expand wireless intrusion detection to detect attacks against mobile hosts and networks.
Future: Investigate a suite of IA technologies to enable enhanced tactical battlefield information sharing across all security domains to meet emerging
threats. Develop jam resistant and low signal detection communication technologies including space-time adaptive techniques, cross layer algorithms,
cognitive disruptive tolerant networking, and signal processing techniques. Develop IA technologies enabling information exchange across security
domains, ensuring robust survivability of tactical networks and critical information against info warfare attacks.
Space-Time
Processing
Disruption Tolerant
Networks
X X X X
Antenna Technologies
Current: Conduct modeling and simulation to validate terrestrial directional antenna (TDA) parameters/link connectivity; develop innovative methods
for integrating radio frequency (RF) electronics into X-band antenna assembly; develop methods of integrating Ku and Ka band transmit/receive into
one OTM ground antenna system; develop methods of integrating power amplifiers into antenna assemblies; and investigate various low profile
antenna technologies.
Future complete development of TDA technologies for mobile ground platforms providing air interface for terrestrial directional networking and beam
steering protocols; investigate hybrid scan and phased array antenna technologies for a low profile multi-beam OTM SATCOM antenna for use with
military Ka band and commercial Ku band satellites; develop multi-beam low profile OTM SATCOM antenna in a single frequency band (Military Ka or
Commercial Ku); develop tri-band low profile (Ka, Ku, Q Band) OTM SATCOM vehicle antenna.
Directive Antennas
OTM SATCOM X X X
C om m a n d , C o n tro l, C om m u n ic a tio n s T e c h n o lo g y
H 9 2 C om m u n ic a tio n s T e c h n o lo g y
ARM Y
Spectrum Impact
ORG
Spectrum
Dependent
Technology
Project Title Project Description
Program
Element
0 602782A
101
Table 7-1 Selected DoD Spectrum Dependent Technology Initiatives (cont’d)
No. Name
Frequency
Reuse
Bandwidth
Efficiency
Dynamic
Management
Interference
Control
Spectrum
Sharing
Spectrum
Planning
Increased
Functionality
Mission
Enhancem ent
Survivable Wireless Mobile Networks:
Current: Analytical and experimental studies validating dynamic and survivable resource control to enable mobile networks to predictably exploit
distributed network infrastructures. Devise and validate adaptive distributed control of physical, medium-access, and network layers based on
statistical inferencing to adapt communications parameters for improved performance.
Future: Devise formal models, abstractions, metrics, and validation techniques for understanding the behavior of large scale military mobile ad hoc
networks. Design techniques that combine social networking and network structure control functions in real time to dramatically increase the level of
resource utilization in keeping with the stated intentions (outcomes) of a particular military objective. Design networking techniques for sensing the
networking operating environment, identifying the best networking functional components, and dynamically composing protocols for superior
performance.
Dynamic, Adaptive
Spectrum
Management and
Network Control
X X X X
Signal Processing for Communication-on-the-Move: Perform research in signal processing techniques to enable reliable low-power multimedia
communications among highly mobile users under adverse wireless conditions.
Current: Conduct analytical and experimental studies of signal processing aided medium access control algorithms that improves communications
performance while on-the-move.
Future: Design and validate multi-input multi-output multi-carrier waveforms that exploit non-contiguous spectrum during mobile operations. Design
optimal channel-adaptive distributed multiple access techniques to provide high capacity, interference-robust, multiple access networks for
communications-on-the-move.
MIMO
Signal Processing X X X X
Secure Jam-Resistant Communication: Perform research in secure, jam-resistant, multi-user communications effective in noisy/cluttered and hostile
wireless environments enabling low probability of detection/intercept.
Current: Devise and study sensor array processing and interference techniques that enable adaptive antennas for improved interference rejection
and spectrum reuse.
Future: Low power adaptive medium access control algorithms that are energy-efficient and support duty-cycling to extend the life of sensor
networks. Design signal separation techniques to mitigate packet collisions and improve signal detection for improved network performance.
Array Processing
Access Control
Packet Collision
Mitigation
X X X X
Dismounted
Communications in
Urban Terrain
Future: Will mature communications capabilities for dismounted Soldier operating in highly complex terrain (e.g. urban environments) through the use
of space-time adaptive processing, cross layer networking algorithms, and network security features such as employing random noise waveforms and
other low probability of intercept, low probability of detection technologies to reduce communications systems vulnerability.
Adaptive
Communications;
Space-Time
Processing
X X X X
Applied
Communications and
Information Networking
(ACIN)
Future: Will mature and demonstrate commercial networking and communications technology in intelligent agents and mobile networking; will provide
rapid adaptation of commercial communications equipment for military use through the development of new architectures combining commercial and
military unique technologies; and will provide modeling and simulation for communications/network planning.
Protocols;
Network Simulation X X X
Proactive Integrated
Link Selection for
Network Robustness
Current: Mature design of planning mode components based on M&S results; mature system architecture to include design of deployed mode link
selection technologies; begin M&S of deployed mode link selection algorithms.
Future: Continue M&S and design of enhanced implementation of deployed mode link selection algorithms; will implement first level integration
among link selection algorithms; will conduct performance characterization and scalability testing of mature link selection algorithms. Complete
implementation of deployed mode link selection algorithms; will conduct final architecture, design maturation, and integration of planning and
deployed mode link selection algorithms.
Access
Control X X X
University and Industry Research
Centers
0601104A
Project Title
H50 COMMS &
NETWORKS COLLAB
TECH ALLIANCE (CTA)
ARMY
0603008A
Electronic W arfare Advanced
Technology
Program
Element
ORG
Spectrum Impact
Project Description
Spectrum
Dependent
Technology
102
Table 7-1 Selected DoD Spectrum Dependent Technology Initiatives (cont’d)
No. Name
F requency
Reuse
Bandwid th
Effic iency
Dynamic
M anagem en t
Interfe rence
Control
Spectrum
Sharing
Spectrum
Plann ing
Inc reased
Functionality
Missio n
Enhanceme n t
0602702F
Comman d , C o n tro l a n d
Commu n ications
4519 Communications
Technology
Current: Develop communications/resource network management schemas and sensor exploitation technologies enabling the dynamic integration of
communications and sensor management functions. Develop capabilities for self-organizing, self-healing, autonomous networking.
Future: Initiate design and development of cognitive networking technology that senses operating environment, learns application requirements, and
intelligently adapts network protocols. Complete demonstration of adaptively combined multi-dimensional (space, time, frequency, coding,
polarization) transmission techniques that enable high bandwidth information transmission and exploitation capabilities. Complete demonstration of
multi-mode, multi-function, sense-and-adapt air-mobile communications capability to dynamically alter communications methods under fast-changing
environment. Initiate the development of scaleable video compression schemes which dynamically trade-off bandwidth and quality based upon the
priority of the required information. Initiate the development of advanced, automated, network and bandwidth management technologies to move,
manage, and process information in real-time.
Adaptive
Communications;
Video/Data
Compression;
Protocols
X X X X X X
0603789 F
C3I A dvanced
De v e lopm ent
4216 Battlespace
Information Exchange
Current: Demonstrate improved battle management command, control, and communications networked collaboration capabilities by making
improvements in routing, mobile ad-hoc networks, and adaptive protocols
Future: Initiate the development of advanced, automated, network and bandwidth management technologies to move, manage, and process
information in real-time to provide dynamic Quality of Assurance/Quality of Service. Investigation to provide assured access (anti-jam) covert high
capacity spectrum dominance for global networking.
Dynamic Network
and Bandwidth
Management X X X X
0603845F
T ransfo rmational SATCOM
(TSA T )
4944 Advanced
Wideband System
The Transformational Satellite Communications (TSAT) is key to global net-centric operations. As the spaceborne element of the Global Information
Grid (GIG), it will extend the GIG to users without terrestrial connections providing improved connectivity and data transfer capability, vastly improving
satellite communications for the warfighter. The TSAT's Internet Protocol (IP) routing will connect thousands of users through networks rather than
limited point-to-point connections.
TSAT will incorporate radio frequency (RF) and laser communications links to meet defense and intelligence community requirements for high data
rate, protected communications. The space segment will make use of key technology advancements that have proven mature by independent testing
of integrated subsystem brass boards to achieve a transformational leap in SATCOM capabilities. These technologies include but are not limited to:
single and multi-access laser communications (to include wide field-of-view technology), Internet protocol based packet switching, bulk and packet
encryption/decryption, battle command-on-the-move antennas, dynamic bandwidth and resource allocation techniques, and protected bandwidth efficie
IP Switching;
Packet Networks;
Adaptive Antennas X X X
0303601F
MILSATCOM
Terminals
2487 MILSATCOM
Terminals
Concept development work to identify commercial/military technology solutions to improve MILSATCOM terminal capabilities for the warfighters.
Focus includes increasing throughput, facilitating sustainability, reducing footprint on user platform and supporting network.
Future: Develop aamily of Advanced Beyond Line-of-Sight Terminals (FAB-T). Development of a High Data Rate (HDR) Radio Frequency (RF)
Ground Terminal.
Multi-beam,
Multi-band,
Phased Array
Antennas
X XX
Project Description
Spectrum
Dependent
Technology
A IR FORCE
Program
Element
ORG Project Title
Spectrum Impact
103
Table 7-1 Selected DoD Spectrum Dependent Technology Initiatives (cont’d)
No. Name
Frequency
Reuse
Bandwidth
Efficiency
Dynamic
Management
Interference
Control
Spectrum
Sharing
Spectrum
Planning
Increased
Functionality
Mission
Enhancement
0605866N
Navy Space and Electronic
Warfare (SEW) Support
0706 EMI Reduction
and Radio Frequency
Management
Automated capabilities will be developed that reflect research into new operational fleet battle group frequency management processes. They
reflect current fleet needs for a communications planning and frequency management tool used to plan communication links and analyze, allocate,
and assign communication and radar frequencies for fleet operations.
Current: Developed interfaces for AESOP (Afloat Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations Program), and other automated tools to interface with
evolving network protocols and to ensure currency for web based applications. Developed new algorithms for automated tools for new Navy C4ISR
systems for both government and commercial communication systems being used by the Navy.
Future: Develop new algorithms for automated tools for new Navy C4ISR systems for both government and commercial communication systems
being used by the Navy. Implement a set of web-based capabilities utilizing latest technologies (XML) and other data standards to optimize
information exchange/usability. Institutionalize frequency management process for operational fleet by developing procedures that can be utilized by
all Navy Strike Groups.
Communications
Planning
Frequency
Management
Interference Control
X X X X
0205604N
Tactical Data Links
Dynamic Network
Management (DNM)
Dynamic Network Management (DNM) will provide automatic reconfiguration of Link-16 networks that respond instantly to emergent warfighter
requirements in the field. DNM consists of different capabilities including Network Control Technologies (NCT), new terminal protocols (Time Slot
Reallocation (TSR) receipt compliance (TC) (TSR RC) and Stochastic Unified Multiple Access (SHUMA)).
Current: Continued Dynamic Network Management (DNM) development allowing for data forwarding between Link-16, Internet Protocol (IP)
networks and new Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) waveforms. Completed integration of NetworkControl Technologies (NCT) capabilities into
JSS. Continue development of multi-netting capabilities and migration efforts to Wideband Networking Waveform (WNW) and JTRS waveforms.
Commence development of Multi-netting Phase II capability. Continue platform integration and testing of TSR RC (AEGIS Baselines). Development
of multi-netting capabilities and migration efforts to Wideband Networking Waveform (WNW) and JTRS waveforms.
Future: Continue migration efforts to WNW and JTRS waveform. Achieve Stochastic Unified Multiple Access (SHUMA)/TSR RC IOC.
RF DevicesNetwork
Management X X X X
0603235N
2919
Communications Security
Knowledge Superiority
And Assurance
Ubiquitous Communications: Provides Dynamically Managed, Interoperable, High-Capacity Connectivity wireless network technology critical to the
performance and robustness of naval communications by providing higher data rates, expanded coverage to disadvantaged platforms, and improved
bandwidth management.
Current: Complete development of Integrated Autonomous Network Management (IANM) by transitioning to ADNS Integrated
Ship Network System (ISNS)/ADNS
Future: Complete Ultra High Frequency (UHF)/L-Band phased array antennas for A/C carriers. Complete Ultra High Frequency (UHF)/L-Band phased
array antennas for carriers. • Complete the High Altitude Airborne Relay and Router Package to deliver relay/router packages for a high and medium
altitude platforms across UHF/VHF and Ku-Bands. Complete the Joint Coordinated Real-Time Engagement (JCRE) Advance Concepts Technology
Demonstration (ACTD) to provide GIG-compliant core enterprise Services and COI Services which will ensure warfighting COIs access to information
required from any source for rapid situation awareness assessment.
Dynamic Bandwidth
Management X X X
0602235N
Common Picture Applied
Research
Ccmmunication And
Networks
This initiative develops wireless communications network technologies critical to the performance and robustness of naval communications including
bandwidth efficient communication techniques; advanced networking techniques for robust, highly dynamic environments; interoperable wireless
networks for secure communications and protocols; and bandwidth and network management techniques that can effectively manage and allocate
bandwidth across tactical and theater levels in support of ireless network centric operations
Current: Complete research and development in MIMO antenna technology and OFDM signaling to improve data throughput (500 Mbps) in strong
multipath environments. Finish prototyping of lab models. Development of Robust Airborne Networking Extensions (RANGE) for joint battlespace
networking, networking UAVs, and hybrid mobile ad hoc networking (MANET)/satellite operation.
Future: Complete development of Robust Airborne Networking Extension (RANGE) protocols and software kit for dynamic inter-UAV networking.
Initiate development of frequency agile and cognitive communications. Initiate development of protocols and middleware for rapid self-configuration an
Channel Efficiency
Dynamic Bandwidth
Management
OTM Multiple Access
X XX
Project Description
Spectrum
Dependent
Technology
ORG Project Title
Program
Element
NAVY
Spectrum Impact
104
No. Name
Frequency
Reuse
Bandwidth
Efficiency
Dynamic
Management
Interference
Control
Spectrum
Sharing
Spectrum
Planning
Increased
Functionality
Mission
Enhancement
Next Generation (XG)
The Next Generation (XG) program goals are to develop both the enabling technologies and system concepts to provide dramatic improvements in
assured military communications in support of a full range of worldwide deployments through the dynamic redistribution of allocated spectrum along
with novel waveforms.
Current: Developed initial set of hardware prototypes and undertook initial field experimentation. Developed and evaluated candidate approaches for
implementation complexity, on-board processor and memory capability/power, overhead, scalability and performance. Developed final set of
hardware prototypes to evaluate and demonstrate system capabilities in an operational exercise. Demonstrated spectrum agility performance of
prototypes in field experiments. Demonstrated spectrum effectiveness and operational characteristics.
Future: Develop and demonstrate large-scale network organization and adaptation. Conduct medium and large-scale military scenario
demonstrations.
Spectrum Sensing;
Spectrum Adaption X X X X X X X
Disruption Tolerant
Networking (DTN)
The Disruption Tolerant Networking (DTN) program is developing network protocols and interfaces to existing delivery mechanisms (“convergence
layers”) that provide high reliability information delivery using communications media that are not available at all times, such as low earth satellites,
UAV over-flights, orbital mechanics, etc.
Current: Demonstrated that information organized into bundles can be delivered across intermittent networks. Investigated policy cognitive operation
by moving intelligence into networks to make the best choices on delivery. Commence research to show “fuzzy scheduling” can make network routing
decisions in the presence of uncertainty about available or
optimal paths.
Future: Develop mechanisms to allow code-base-independent environmentally-aware selection of routing algorithms. Demonstrate distributed innetwork
cache and indexing services. Demonstrate information binding on demand from a network cache.
Network Protocols;X X X X
Connectionless
Networking (CN)
The Connectionless Networking (CN) program will develop technology to allow networks such as unattended ground sensors (UGS), to send and
receive messages without initial link acquisition or previous sharing of routing information. This will, in turn, improve energy per bit of delivered
information by as much as 100 to 1,000 times compared to conventional and near-term deployable communications systems such as contemplated
by both commercial and military users.
Current: Translated CN technology design and simulations into actual hardware and software. Designed and fabricated prototype CN network node
devices, and performed laboratory demonstrations.
Future: Develop and evaluate candidate approaches for implementation complexity, on-board processor and memory capability/power, overhead,
scalability and performance. Design and fabricate prototype Connectionless Networking node devices with hardware and form factor suitable for
military applications. Conduct 30 node field demonstrations using CN devices in a form factor suitable for transition.
Connectionless
Networking;
Adaptive Routing X X X X
Command, Control and Communications Systems
Project Title
Spectrum Efficient
Technology
Test and Evaluation/Science and
Technology (T&E/S&T)
0603941D8Z
Defense-Wide RDT&E
Current: Continued Spectrally Efficient High Data Rate Telemetry System in 3-30Ghz range effort which will combine physically compact digital
technology and complex software modulation schemes capable of mitigating effects of communications channel multipath error at high Doppler rates,
while achieving implementations that are both power and spectrally efficient. Continued RF MEMS effort to develop a low cost, low profile,
multifunctional phased array antenna using switchable micro elements which will enable rapid antenna geometry reconfiguration.
The Netcentric Systems Test (NST) focus area will address the T&E scenarios, technologies, and analysis tools required to ensure that operational
networked systems delivered to the warfighter provide an assured capability to acquire, verify, protect, and assimilate information necessary for
battlefield dominance within a complex netcentric environment.
Future: Complete RF MEMS system integration, package development, ground testing, flight testing, test data analysis. Complete Joint Virtual
Netcentric Warfare effort; demonstrate virtual mobile ad-hoc network (MANET) technology and real-time virtual communication network.
Phased Array
Antennas;
Modems;
Adaptive Antennas;
Data Compression;
Modulation
X X
0603760E
DARPA
ORG
Spectrum
Dependent
Technology
Project Description
Program
Element
X
Spectrum Impact
Table 7-1 Selected DoD Spectrum Dependent Technology Initiatives (cont’d)
105
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106
8.0 DoD Biennial Strategic Spectrum Plans
DoD developed this Strategic Spectrum Plan in response to the Presidential
Memorandum on Improving Spectrum Management for the 21st Century. The purpose of this
report is to emphasize DoD’s critical dependence on access to the electromagnetic spectrum in
order to successfully employ operational military capabilities. The approach was to identify the
current DoD uses of, and dependence on, spectrum as well as identify long-term spectrum needs
and provide a forecast of spectrum trends. Fundamental to this report is the goal to emphasize
DoD’s research into spectrum technologies that will assist in mitigating spectrum requirements
for future DoD systems.
This document marks the first installment on what will become a biennial process to
update the DoD Strategic Spectrum Plan. The approach used for this report provides a national
framework which will be enhanced and modified to support the long-term intent of the
Presidential Memorandum. It is anticipated that this “living” plan will be recognized as a
strategic document that will also be used to assist in guiding DoD investment in future spectrumdependent
systems and technologies.
Through the experiences acquired in developing the 2005 DoD Strategic Spectrum Plan
the DoD has recognized the need for near- and far-term spectrum planning processes that provide
a high degree of predictability. As such, the Department envisions a plan for the development of
a current user needs analysis for spectrum dependent systems and a methodology for
characterization and forecasting of long-range spectrum requirements.
The Department recognizes that the development of an effective biennial process will be
a significant challenge. The size, complexity, and diversity of DoD’s spectrum needs will not
only require establishment of an extensive outreach structure, but it will also require the
development of a standardized data repository with codified procedures for updates, additions,
and enhancements. Additionally, DoD will work closely with NTIA and the Commerce
Department to ensure that DoD’s future process is optimized to meet the intent of the
Presidential Memorandum.
One process, in particular, that is used within DoD is the JCIDS. It is a joint-conceptscentric
capabilities identification process that allows joint forces to meet future military
challenges. The JCIDS process assesses existing and proposed capabilities in light of
contributions to future joint concepts. The JCIDS is supported by robust analytic processes and
identifies capability gaps and potential solutions. This system is consistent with DoD Directive
5000.1 35charge for early and continuous collaboration throughout DoD. One key aspect of
JCIDS is that it informs the acquisition process by identifying, assessing, and prioritizing joint
military capability needs; these identified capability needs then serve as the basis for the
development and production of acquisition programs. As spectrum is redefined for the future,
the use of this process will be integral to its success.
35 Department of Defense Directive 5000.1, USD (AT&L), May 12, 2003.
107
9.0 Additional Comments and Recommendations
9.1 Comments
The following conclusions may be drawn from the enclosed DoD Strategic Spectrum
Plan regarding DoD spectrum requirements for the next 10-20 years:
• Spectrum requirements growth will be significant through 2015 and beyond,
irrespective of planned and programmed modernization efforts.
• DoD’s most significant spectrum requirements growth will occur in the spectrum
bands below 3 GHz due to the ability of these bands to support many of the emerging
-netcentric capabilities and the implementation of JTRS-based communications
architectures such as FCS. This spectrum region is also where commercial demands
are increasing most rapidly.
• Significant growth in DoD requirements is also projected in bands above 3 GHz.
While these bands are not as densely occupied as the lower bands today, they are
critical to future DoD systems.
• Forecasted spectrum requirements growth may not be fully supportable without
advances in spectrum utilization technologies along with changes in spectrum
management concepts and approaches.
• Any loss of spectrum access to DoD, either nationally or internationally, through
reallocation or other means will exacerbate DoD’s challenge to meet future spectrum
requirements.
9.2 Recommendations
A credible and living strategic spectrum plan supported by focused action will be
essential to ensure that all federal users of the spectrum gain sufficient spectrum access to
support current and future operations and that competition for spectrum does not constrain the
ability of DoD to perform all missions worldwide. DoD recommends that:
• The Department of Commerce (DoC), in collaboration with other federal agencies,
develop a codified spectrum requirements process that provides a consistent federal
approach for identifying current and future spectrum requirements as well as develop
the following:
• A baseline Federal Spectrum Management Strategy that embraces a long-term vision;
• A comprehensive, Federal Spectrum Architecture representative of the vision;
• A Federal Spectrum Management Transformation Roadmap; and
• A Federal Spectrum Summit and Workshop, hosted by the NTIA, to discuss federal demand
for current and future spectrum access and to develop an overall federal plan for utilization of
the spectrum.
111
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