MILSATMAGAZINE ADVANCED MILSATCOM - SATCOMFORNET-CENTRICWARFARE APRIL2013 - MILSAT MAGAZINE
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SATCOM For Net-Centric Warfare April 2013
MilsatMagazine
Advanced MILSATCOM
Plus...
Spotlight On MUOS
and more...
Cover image courtesy of
Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems
www.newtec.eu
BE READY FOR MORE DATA
COTS Satcom Technology
Milsatmagazine.
Milsatmagazine.April
April2013, Vol.
2013, 6,6,
Vol. #1#1
Publishing Operations Authors + Contributors
Silvano Payne, Publisher + Writer Jennifer Aldridge
Hartley G. Lesser, Editorial Director Jim Chambers
Pattie Waldt, Executive Editor Tom Cox
Karl Fuchs
Jill Durfee, Sales Director, Editorial Assistant
Claire Heininger
Simon Payne, Development Director Jos Heyman
Donald McGee, Production Manager Tao Jen
Dan Makinster, Technical Advisor David Leichner
Chris Forrester, Senior Contributing Editor Hartley Lesser
Rick Lober
Bob Gough, Senior Contributing Editor
Donna Miles
Jos Heyman, Senior Contributing Editor John D. Oetting
Giles Peeters, Senior Contributing Editor Giles Peeters
Mike Antonovich, Senior Contributing Editor Rick Skinner
M/Sgt. Michael Smith
Richard Dutchik, Contributing Editor
Theng Theng Quek
Bert Sadtler, Contributing Editor
Capt. Devon Thomas
Pattie Waldt
Steve Williams
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4 MilsatMagazine—April 2013 4
Title Milsatmagazine. April 2013, Vol. 6, #1
Byline Dispatches
Dispatches
Fiscal Uncertainty Threatens Readiness (U.S.A.F.), 12
A Whole Lot Of Shaking Going On (Data Physics Corp.), 14
GaN Is All Amp’d Up (Comtech Xicom), 14
U.S. Army Builds STEM Interest, 16
Three More On The Books (Arianespace), 18
Readjusting The Ceiling (Harris), 18
Roaming Resources (Thuraya), 18
Expansion of EXPLORERs (Cobham SATCOM), 19
Monitoring Those Remote Assets (Globalstar), 20
Plenty Of Support (Northrop Grumman), 20
Processing Those Payloads (Astrotech), 20
Impressive VSAT Efficiency Gains (STM Group), 22
SAMS™ Saves (Glowlink), 22
The Dilemma Of Decreased Spending (Euroconsult), 23
First Year Celebration (ViaSat), 24
Comms For Rotary (Hughes), 24
Thwart Thought For ECM (Allen-Vanguard), 25
The Odyssey Shall Continue... (Sea Launch + EchoStar), 26
A New Earth StationEquipment Marketplace (New Era Systems), 26
Hot Fire Tests (Moog), 27
An EPOCH Satellite Program (Kratos’ Integral), 28
Contract For Interference (Kratos Defense + Security), 28
First Sergeants Find Value In Air Guard’s Warrior Network (USAF), 30
Sicilian Blockade (Italy), 31
New Network For Afghan-Bound Unit (U.S. Army), 32
Coast-To-Coast Training (U.S. Army), 34
Bringing More Fire To The U.S. Navy (Northrop Grumman), 34
66 MilsatMagazine—April 2013
Milsatmagazine. April 2013, Vol. 6, #1
Protected MILSATCOM + The Affordable Solution 36
Meeting the communications needs of mobile users is a high priority for the U.S. military. By Rick Skinner, Northrop
Grumman Aerospace Systems.
A Short Burst Data Capability 40
When it comes to communications, military organizations are increasingly looking to keep it short and sweet.
By Giles Peeters, Sr. Contributing Editor.
High Throughput Satellites = A Bright Future For MILSATCOM 44
The military has a voracious appetite for communications. However, shrinking Department of Defense (DoD) budgets threaten
to quash the military’s development. By Karl Fuchs, iGT.
Strategies For Comprehensive Link Protection 46
Reliance on satellite communications (SATCOM) for critical communication links has never been higher, making the growing
problem of link protection even more critical. By Steve Williams, RT Logic.
Techniques For Ensuring The Highest Quality Microwave Measurements 52
In the RF and microwave domain, high frequencies and stringent application specifications are the norm.
By Theng Theng Quek, Agilent Technologies.
SOTM: A Terminal Case 56
The Japanese National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) is the recipient of two, state-of-the-
art Ka-band Satellite-On-The-Move (SOTM) terminals.
When Bigger Isn’t Necessarily Better 58
U.S. Defense spending dropped significantly in the last quarter of 2012. According to data compiled by Bloomberg News... By
David Leichner, Gilat Satellite Networks.
ComSats That Didn’t Quite Make The Grade... 60
Communications satellites provide an excellent opportunity to make money but, over the years, many ventures to establish a
communications network, especially... By Jos Heyman, Sr. Contributing Editor.
Advancing COTM Technologies To Enhance Warfighter Communications 62
Military organizations around the globe need reliable, secure and cost-effective Communications-On-The-Move (COTM)
solutions to keep troops connected on... By Rick Lober, Hughes Defense and Intelligence Systems Division.
COMMAND CENTER: Dr. John Paffett, SST-US 64
Dr. John Paffett is chief executive officer for Surrey Satellite Technology US (SST-US), the United States subsidiary of small
satellite manufacturer Surrey Satellite Technology Limited (SSTL).
88 MilsatMagazine—April 2013
Milsatmagazine. April 2013, Vol. 6, #1
Commercial X-Band: The Technical + Operational Advantages 68
Commercial X-band, a frequency reserved entirely for U.S. and Allied Governments’ use... by Jim Chambers, XTAR LLC.
A Sell-Out @ The National Space Symposium 70
The Space Foundation, sponsor of the National Space Symposium, celebrates the greatest global participation in the
event’s 29-year history.
Satellite Spotlight—Understanding + Using MUOS 72
The Navy has used the military UHF band (300–400 MHz) for satellite communications (SATCOM) since the launch of the
first... By John D. Oetting + Tao Jen, APL + Lockheed Martin.
Smartphone Use For SATCOM 84
Satellites allow billions of people on the ground, in the air, and at sea to communicate in ways that...
by Tim Cox, Coolfire Solutions.
MilsatMagazine—April
MilsatMagazine—April 2013
2013 99
Milsatmagazine. April 2013, Vol. 6, #1
Index to Advertisers
2013 International Satellite Directory, 35 MITEQ Inc. / MCL, 87
Advantech Wireless, 21 NewSat Limited, 13
Agilent Technologies, 17 Newtec CY, Cover + 25
ANTCOM Corporation, 3 Northrop Grumman Corporation, 2
AvL Technologies, 19 SatFinder, 29
Comtech EF Data, 23 SatNews, 4, 10, 59
Comtech Xicom Technology, 11 SMi—Global Space & Satellite Forum, 43
CPI Satcom Products, 27 SMi—MILSATCOM Middle East, 83
EM Solutions, Inc. (EMS), 57 Space Foundation—The Space Report 2013, 71
Gilat Satellite Networks, 33 Space Tech Expo, 67
GL Communications, 9 Superior Satellite Engineers, 31
Harris Corporation, 15 Teledyne Paradise Datacom LLC, 51
iDirect Government Technology (iGT), 45 Track24 Defence, 41
L-3 GCS, 5 ViaSat Inc., 6
MDA Satellite Systems, 7 W.B. Walton Enterprises, 55
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Image Credit: NASA
10
10 MilsatMagazine—April 2013InfoBeam
Dispatches
Fiscal Uncertainty Threatens Readiness
Declaring U.S. Strategic and the global interconnections Meanwhile, Stratcom
Command mission-ready for its that can quickly cause regional remains focused on the
global missions today comes issues to go global. missions critical to the
with a warning. According to Kehler cited examples nation’s core national security
its commander, who addressed over the past year alone: interests, he said.
Congress, given the specter of actions by violent extremists, “To do this, our men
fiscal uncertainty and declining increasing cyber activity, Iran’s and women wield a range of
resources, he’s concerned he nuclear ambitions, North complimentary capabilities
“may not be able to say the Korea’s nuclear activities, the to create the tailored effects
same in six months or a year.” civil war in Syria and the rise in the nation needs,” he said.
Air Force Gen. C. Robert Russian and Chinese strategic “Our primary objective
Kehler painted a picture of an capabilities among them. is to prevent conflict by Sequestration and other
uncertain, complex national Fiscal uncertainty adds influencing in advance the budget uncertainties threaten
security landscape during to these challenges, he said, perceptions, assessments and these and other aspects of
testimony before the Senate threatening already-overdue decisions of those who would deterrence, he said, and
Armed Services Committee, modernization efforts and, consider threatening our vital ultimately, the command’s
even as the United States ultimately, readiness. national interests.” readiness to defend the
transitions from more than a Kehler emphasized that This, Kehler said, United States and assure its
decade of conflict. this point is not lost on those demands continuing allies and partners.
These factors make the intent on doing harm to the credibility of the United It also puts the brakes on
transition “unlike any we have United States and its interests. States’ military capabilities, growth in essential areas such
experienced in the past,” he “Our enemies and potential working in concert with as cyber defense, he said,
said, with increasing volatility enemies are watching,” he other elements of U.S. and ultimately could degrade
in many of the world’s regions told the Senate panel. national power. the nuclear deterrent, global
The general emphasized strike, missile warning and
the importance of Stratcom’s e-defense and situational
historic mission—nuclear awareness in space and
deterrence—and the need cyberspace capabilities.
to ensure the readiness of That will have a direct
the nuclear triad of strategic impact on Stratcom’s support
bombers, intercontinental to warfighters around the
ballistic missiles and globe, he said.
submarine-launched ballistic Kehler said he’s also
missiles into the future for as concerned about the impact
long as nuclear weapons exist. on Stratcom’s workforce,
He recognized the need particularly civilians who are
to modernize the command- “integral to everything we
and-control systems that do.” They serve in some of the
ensure nuclear deterrence, command’s senior leadership
and to replace the current positions and contribute
fleet of Ohio-class submarines specialized expertise to the
that is approaching the end of mission, he said.
its service life. “There will be impacts
Asked about the viability across the board,” he said,
of the U.S. missile defense telling the committee the true
deterrent in light of North extent of that impact won’t be
Korean activities, Kehler totally understood while the
said he is confident the budget remains in flux. #
United States could defeat
an attack from North Korea Story by
today. But he signaled that Donna Miles,
additional steps could be American Forces Press Services
necessary in the future if
North Korea continues to
boost its own capabilities.
General C. Robert “Bob” Kehler, Commander, U.S. Strategic Command
12 MilsatMagazine—April 2013InfoBeam
Dispatches
A Whole Lot Of Shaking Going On GaN Is All Amp’d Up
Data Physics Corporation Vibration testing on Comtech Xicom Technology, It is the perfect solution
recently installed a missiles and missile canisters Inc. introduced a compact and for military users who need
SignalStar Matrix is critically important highly efficient GaN-based high power, high-efficiency,
multishaker vibration because of the potential amplifier for X-band compact solid-state
controller for use in the for accidental detonation MILSATCOM service. amplification for single- or
testing of missiles at a U.S. during transportation. Model XTSLIN-100X-B1 multiple-carrier X-Band
west coast Navy test and A difficulty with features 100W of WGS tactical SATCOM systems.
evaluation facility. performing multishaker linear power in a compact, “We are extremely proud
The Navy uses the testing has been vibration rugged 32-pound package. to introduce this industry-
Matrix multishaker vibration control of the shaker systems Drawing only 750W of leading X-Band product
controller in several, for random, sine and shock prime power while at linear in support of our military
single and multiple shaker test types. RF output, this amplifier customers who are looking
configurations. Some The SignalStar Matrix is ideal for transportable for greater mobility, efficiency
applications use a single controller has proven to be applications where robust, and linear power. Our new
Data Physics SignalForce capable of operating most high efficiency, lightweight HPA delivers 100 Watts
electrodynamic shaker multishaker arrangements and high-temperature of WGS linear power in a
with the Matrix vibration producing accurate control operation is required. smaller and lighter package.
controller and some use two in many commercial In addition, this unit has No other product in the
SignalForce electrodynamic and government demonstrated the ability to marketplace offers this level
shakers to test a missile in a aerospace applications. support critical multi-carrier of linear power in such a
single degree of freedom. For instance, when used X-Band operation with lightweight package,” said
Yet other applications use to control two six degree of extremely low leakage levels John Branscum, President of
electrodynamic and hydraulic freedom actuator systems in the receive band, even for Comtech Xicom Technology,
shakers in combination to test on a common large test the case with the SSPA in view Inc. “As customers demand
missiles in up to six degrees article, the actuators can be of the antenna and feed. higher performance, they
of freedom. There is even one controlled to one, two or three Model XTSLIN-100X-B1, continuously turn to Comtech
application that combines directions of translation while measuring just 6.8-inches Xicom Technology where
two six degree of freedom constraining the rotational x 10.5-inches x 17-inches, we are dedicated to rapidly
hydraulic shaker systems to degrees of freedom. Realtime includes an integrated providing solutions to their
test a missile in its container vibration control of this shaker BUC, output isolator and most challenging problems.”
to produce defined linear or configuration to random, sine, harmonic filter. #
rotational motion. and shock profiles is a unique This amplifier has been
What is common to all feat that truly demonstrates the developed and is manufactured
these applications is the capabilities of SignalStar Matrix. in the USA, facilitating military
ability of the SignalStar The U.S. Navy now uses procurement and logistics.
Matrix controller to drive SignalStar Matrix vibration
these multiple shaker controller and analysis
configurations, producing systems at several large
precise motion in specified test facilities and joins other
degrees of freedom. advanced users, such as
Shock and vibration NASA. The Matrix is designed
testing is used to test to meet the demanding
products in simulated real requirements of advanced
world environments. Most testing and evaluation, and
vehicles, vehicle components, provides a single solution for
and consumer electronics both multishaker and single
undergo some type of shaker control. #
vibration testing in the design
and validation cycle. Critical
components often also
undergo shock and vibration
screening as part of the
manufacturing process.
14 MilsatMagazine—April 2013InfoBeam
Dispatches
U.S. Army Builds STEM Interest
In honor of National “On our previous arch bridge and its load to the year. In addition to Engineers
Engineers Week, U.S. bridge, the ends were abutments or reinforcements Week, district volunteers
Army Corps of Engineers translating or going outwards. at either end. He also connect with WMS via
Europe District employees For arch bridges you don’t explained that there are four videoconferencing lessons,
presented structural want the ends translating. main types of bridges: beam, Earth Day activities and Take
engineering, alternative You want them pinned or suspension, truss and arch. Our Daughters and Sons to
energy and fire-protection fixed,” he said. During the workshop, Dixon Work Day. At USACE, it is a
concepts to Department An engaged student’s saw interest gleaming in her priority to attract students
of Defense Dependents hand popped up in the air; students’ eyes. to science, technology,
Schools-Europe students he said reinforcement was “Experiences like engineering and math, or
February 19-21, at the answer to strengthening this with our community STEM, through a variety of
Wiesbaden Middle School. the bridge. motivate our students to outreach programs.
Lawrence Carabajal, a “This guy is smart,” learn. The more hands-on “Our country is in dire
district structural engineer, Carabajal said. engagement, the more real need of more scientists and
presented a bridge-building Using their feet, students and accessible engineering engineers,” Carabajal said.
lesson to eighth-grade science created abutments to seems,” Dixon said. “The president has this STEM
and math students. Carabajal reinforce the new bridge, The students initiative because so much
used a hands-on approach, causing the arch to resist enthusiastically raised their of the work is being sent
constructing a Leonardo through compression and hands, asked questions and overseas. We have to educate
da Vinci-designed wooden withstand a greater applied volunteered to build, load [students] and keep that work
bridge for students to test and load than the previous bridge. and measure the bridge. The in our country.”
re-create. The demonstration provided hands-on exercise allowed STEM jobs are growing
“What engineers love a real-world lesson on students to touch, feel and at a rate three times as fast
doing is building things compression versus tension, break the structure. as non-STEM jobs, and by
and testing them, so let’s a concept critical to bridge Getting students excited 2018 they are projected
do it,” Carabajal said as he design and construction. about engineering in middle to grow by 17 percent,
assembled the self-supporting “This is a practical school or even earlier is according to the U.S.
arch bridge in front of a application of the learning advantageous. Frequent Department of Commerce.
46-student audience. taking place in the exposure to engineering As Carabajal’s bridge-
Once the bridge was classroom,” said Millicent activities and professional building presentation drew
constructed, students were Dixon, a Wiesbaden Middle engineers is key to to a close, he made a plea to
eager to test the capacity School math and resource attracting students to the the students, “Please consider
by adding textbooks, two management teacher. “We field, Dixon said. engineering as a career field.”
at a time, to determine the need to use math to do this, “I remember being
applied load the structure to build this structure.” a student and thinking Story by
could hold. Volunteers loaded For teachers, it is always all engineers went to Jennifer Aldridge, USACE
the bridge with 20 textbooks a challenge to explain how (Massachusetts Institute
until an audible crack replaced classroom lessons translate of Technology). For me #
the silence in the school foyer. into reality, Dixon said. The it seemed unattainable,”
“Wow! There went bridge-building exercise Dixon said. “But the more
something. What just provided students tangible experience [my students
cracked?” asked a member of examples of applied math have] with people in this field
Elaine Young’s eighth-grade and science. the better.
science class. David Williams, an “They see their teachers
A few seconds later the eighth-grade student every day so they want to
structure collapsed. who fancies math, said be teachers,” he continued.
“Our bridge has reached the structural engineering “They see athletes on
its limit,” Carabajal said. exercise was a good way to television, so they want to
Due to excessive weight, learn about bridges. be athletes. They need to
the bridge failed and needed “At first, it looked like a see people in science and
to be rebuilt, he explained. jigsaw puzzle and I thought, technology to get them Lawrence Carabajal, a U.S. Army
Carabajal asked the class ‘Wow, how do you make it interested in these fields.” Corps of Engineers Europe District
to suggest a method to stand?’” he said. As a sponsor, Europe structural engineer, presents
bridge building concepts to
strengthen the bridge. As As the presentation District works with Wiesbaden eighth-grade science and math
a clue, he described the progressed, Carabajal Middle School teachers and students at Wiesbaden Middle
weakness of the previous explained how the arch bridge administrators to engage School, Germany. Photo credit:
Jennifer Aldrige, USACE
bridge design. transferred the weight of the students throughout the
16 MilsatMagazine—April 2013InfoBeam
Dispatches
Three More On The Books Readjusting The Ceiling
Arianespace has completed On this occasion, Jean- Harris Corporation has
a launch services contract Yves Le Gall, Chairman & CEO received a $500 million
with Intelsat S.A. for the of Arianespace, said, “We are increase in the ceiling
launch of three satellites particularly proud to be able value of its 2011 Indefinite
through 2017. to serve the world’s largest Delivery, Indefinite Quantity
Weighing more than six satellite operator and we (IDIQ) contract with the
tons each at launch, the thank Intelsat. It is an honor U.S. Army Communications The Harris RF-7700H-MP
satellites will be placed into to continue a partnership that Electronics Command. Multiband Networking radio.
Photo courtesy of Harris.
GTO by the Ariane 5 ECA goes back nearly 33 years. The increased ceiling
from Europe’s Space Port in This new contract for provides the U.S. government
Frequency, RF-7800M
French Guiana. three satellites—representing with greater flexibility in
Multiband Networking and
The three missions the 52nd, 53rd, and 54th acquiring Harris radios,
RF-7800S Secure Personal
will include the launches satellites Arianespace will have accessories, systems and
radios—as well as Harris Unity
of Intelsat’s previously launched for Intelsat—is for us services to assist international
and other land mobile radios
announced, high throughput a confirmation of the quality partners with their mission-
for public safety and first
EpicNG–class satellites. and the competitiveness of critical communication needs.
responder communications.
Intelsat EpicNG is designed our launch services.” # Under the contract,
“The increased ceiling
to address wireless and fixed Harris provides military and
expands our ability to support
telecommunications, enterprise, land mobile radio systems to
international customers with
mobility, video and government international partners of the
advanced tactical radios and
applications that require U.S. State Department and
integrated communications
broadband infrastructure. U.S. Department of Defense.
system solutions,” said Dana
The contract is part of the
Mehnert, group president, Harris
U.S. government’s Foreign
RF Communications. “Backed
Military Sales program, which
by 50 years of expertise and
supports coalition building
world-class customer support,
and interoperability through
our radios have been proven
sales of defense equipment,
extensively in missions all
training and services.
around the world. We provide
The contract allows all of
users with mission-critical
these organizations to acquire
network communications for
product from the entire Harris
applications in command and
Falcon radio portfolio. Such
control, border security, counter-
includes many advanced
terrorism and other missions.’’
wideband solutions—such
#
as the RF-7800H High-
Roaming Resources
Thuraya Thuraya customers in
Telecommunications the United States, including
Company has just Puerto Rico and the U.S.
announced a strategic Virgin Islands can now
partnership with AT&T make and receive calls, and
Inc., which will provide also send and receive text
outbound GSM roaming for messages (SMS).
voice and data services to The next stage of the
Thuraya users across the roaming service between
United States. Thuraya and AT&T will
The roaming service, enable AT&T customers to
which commenced on roam and use the Thuraya
March 15, 2013, allows satellite network which spans
Thuraya subscribers to roam more than 140 countries
seamlessly with their Thuraya across Africa, Asia, Australia
XT-Dual handsets on the and Europe. #
Artistic rendition of the Intelsat 29e satellite.
AT&T network.
18 MilsatMagazine—April 2013Expansion of EXPLORERs
The EXPLORER BGAN »
»NEW – EXPLORER 3000 Series: offer true choice and flexibility developing world-class mobile
portfolio is expanding with Manual Deploy Fly-Away for end-users. Regardless of VSAT solutions under the
the addition of four new VSAT Antennas location, when traditional EXPLORER name.
series of VSAT terminals, communication infrastructure These efforts are
»
»NEW – EXPLORER 5000 Series:
all bearing the famous is unavailable, EXPLORER strengthened by the structure
Auto-Acquire Fly-Away
EXPLORER name. products keep users of Cobham SATCOM, which
VSAT Antennas
To make this possible, connected with reliable voice benefits from the expertise of
Cobham SATCOM is »
»NEW – EXPLORER 7000 Series: and data links. the teams behind EXPLORER
migrating its established Auto-Acquire Drive-Away VSAT EXPLORER enables high and TracStar. #
TracStar portfolio of VSAT Antennas – Communication- quality IP-based services such
terminals to become on-the-Pause (COTP) as voice communication,
EXPLORER products, creating for vehicles radio, data, fax, and live
a most comprehensive range video transmission that work
»
»EXPLORER 325 & 727: Satcom-
of land-mobile satellite efficiently across the BGAN
on-the-Move (SOTM) BGAN
communication products network and now, on VSAT
terminals for vehicles
in the market, covering satellite links.
both BGAN and VSAT. »
»NEW – EXPLORER 9000 Series: Customers of Cobham
The expanded EXPLORER Satcom-on-the-Move (SOTM) SATCOM’s TracStar land-
portfolio now includes: VSAT Antennas for vehicles mobile product lines will
experience no major changes
The Cobham SATCOM
»
»EXPLORER 300, 500 & 700 in service as the TracStar
land portfolio now features
Series: Ultra-portable and easy- products become EXPLORER.
a diverse array of turnkey
deployable Inmarsat BGAN The same sales,
satellite terminals, ensuring
terminals (L-Band) engineering, and support staff
that it can fulfil critical
remains focused on servicing Cobham’s EXPLORER 5100
communications needs and Fly-Away Configuration
products in the field and
MilsatMagazine—April 2013 19InfoBeam
Dispatches
Monitoring Those Plenty Of Support
Remote Assets Northrop Grumman
Globalstar Inc. signed a three- Corp. has completed the
year manufacturing, airtime fabrication of the primary
and distribution agreement mirror backplane support
with Nupoint Systems to structure (PMBSS) wing
expand the Company’s assemblies for NASA’s James
M2M data communication security, will benefit from “Globalstar’s satellite Webb Space Telescope.
service offerings beyond this cost-effective, long-term network will provide reliable The primary mirror
the reach of terrestrial asset monitoring solution. solutions to meet the varying backplane supports the
(cellular) communication. Wayne Carlson, President needs of Nupoint Systems’ telescope’s beryllium mirrors,
Nupoint products & CEO of Nupoint Systems, many customers. Decision instruments and other
and services integrated said, “Companies can’t always making information will elements during ground
with Globalstar satellite choose the location of their be available in real-time test operations and launch.
data services will be assets, but they can choose regardless of the asset It holds the 18-segment,
used to provide two-way a reliable and cost effective location,” said Frank Bell, 21-foot-diameter primary
communications for M2M data satellite communications President of Global Sales and mirror nearly motionless
collection and monitoring of solution to connect to those Marketing for Globalstar. while the telescope is
customer assets. assets. With Globalstar’s Globalstar successfully peering into deep space.
Companies that work in recently launched satellites launched its final batch of Their unique folding design
remote locations such as: having a design life of 15 second-generation satellites permits the telescope to fit in
Oil and gas wells, mining years, Nupoint is able to on February 6, 2013. the five-meter fairing of the
sites, water management provide reliable two-way Once placed in service, launch vehicle.
systems, environmental/ connectivity with our Globalstar will be positioned Measuring approximately
weather sites, pollution customer’s data equipment, as the first mobile satellite 24 by 21 feet, and weighing
detection systems, early even in the most remote services provider to more than 2,000 pounds,
warning systems and remote locations for years to come.” complete the deployment the primary mirror backplane
of a second-generation support structure—which
constellation of low-Earth- includes the wing assemblies
orbit (LEO) satellites. as well as the center section
Combined with the that ATK completed in
Company’s affordable February 2012—must meet
and award-winning suite unprecedented thermal
of consumer retail SPOT stability requirements. While
products, Globalstar will be the telescope is operating
uniquely positioned to offer at a range of extremely cold
the world’s most extensive temperatures, from -406 to
lineup of highly reliable and -343 degrees Fahrenheit,
lowest-priced mobile satellite the backplane must not vary
services to the broadest more than 38 nanometers
range of customers around (approximately 1/1,000 the
the globe. # diameter of a human hair).
The wing assemblies
of the Webb Telescope’s
Processing Those Payloads primary mirror backplane
support structure were
Astrotech Corporation SMAP is the second state from space. The three-
designed and fabricated
has announced that its mission awarded by NASA year applied science mission
and will be tested at ATK
Astrotech Space Operations under the current Not-to- will enhance weather forecasts
facilities in Magna, Utah.
(ASO) subsidiary has been Exceed $16 million Indefinite- and climate monitoring and
ATK designed and built
awarded a NASA task order Delivery/Indefinite-Quantity prediction capabilities.
the 900 composite parts
contract to provide payload (IDIQ) task order contract that In January, NASA
of the wing assembly
processing services for the runs through December, 2017. awarded a Not-to-Exceed
using lightweight graphite
Soil Moisture Active Passive The Jet Propulsion Lab $12.1 million IDIQ task order
materials and advanced
(SMAP) satellite at ASO’s satellite, scheduled to launch contract to ASO Florida to
fabrication techniques. #
Vandenberg Air Force Base, in October, 2014, will gather provide services for satellites
California, facility. global measurements of soil launched at Cape Canaveral
moisture and its freeze/thaw Air Force Station, Florida. #
20 MilsatMagazine—April 2013InfoBeam
Dispatches
Impressive VSAT Efficiency Gains SAMS™ Saves
The newest and highest the efficiency gains realized The DVB-RCS2 standard Satellite traffic planners
capacity member of its can be up to 250 percent, includes all best-in-class have a host of tasks and
family of VSAT indoor even with conventional technologies, such as: linear solutions usually are costly.
units builds on the proven Ku-band satellites. modulation up to 16QAM; SAMS™ by Glowlink is
VSAT while tripling its Value-added IP 16-state Turbo code FEC; a NexGen satellite capacity
throughput. networking features in all and burst formats with and link planning tool.
STM Group, Inc. SatLink networks and in encapsulation optimized Satellite traffic planners can
announced Monday, March the SatLink 2910 include: for IP communication. This use SAMS™ to plan satellite
18, at the Satellite 2013 advanced QoS, integration ensures the lowest possible communications traffic,
tradeshow, the newest and of traffic shaping with ACM overheads and best perform link budget analysis
highest capacity member of controls, integrated link bandwidth utilization, while and optimize space assets to
its SatLink® family of VSAT encryption using AES-256, also removing the need to meet data throughput and link
indoor units. VLAN tagging with private configure return carriers performance objectives—all
The SatLink 2910 builds networking extensions, in SCPC mode simply to at a fraction of the price of
on the proven SatLink and mesh networking obtain high throughputs at other planning products on
2900 VSAT while tripling among VSATs. The SatLink the best efficiency. the market.
its throughput. Multicast 2910 includes a built-in STM is currently the SAMS™ is designed
or streaming IP data is 8-carrier mesh TDMA burst only supplier shipping for both fixed and mobile
supported at rates up to 150 receiver for excellent mesh products with support for the networks including
Mbps. Interactive IP traffic networking performance. DVB-RCS2 standard. aeronautical and maritime
and bulk file transfers are The SatLink 2910 is a 1U The SatLink 2910 will be networks. The product is
handled with exceptionally rack-mountable unit targeted commercially available in designed with an emphasis
high throughput as well. primarily into maritime and Q3, 2013. on ease-of-use. Its point-and-
The SatLink 2910, like other professional markets STM also announced click interface gives the user a
all current SatLink products, for broadband multimedia a development project for graphical and intuitive way to
supports the DVB-RCS2 services. It will also serve a very high-throughput, plan traffic links and predict
standard for efficiency and demanding specialized integrated TDM/TDMA Hub their performance on a link-
link performance with ACM applications for large modem, supported by the by-link or network-wide basis.
on DVB-S2 carriers and commercial enterprises, Norwegian Space Centre and SAMS™ can be used
superior performance on such as oil & gas exploration the European Space Agency. either as a stand-alone
TDMA carriers by using ACM companies, as well as defense, This project will produce link planning tool, or
per burst. Its capabilities homeland security, and other a compact 1U rack-mountable seamlessly integrated with
deliver both higher return link government ministries. unit with 350 Mbps of IP Glowlink’s industry-leading
throughputs and much higher In maritime environments throughput over DVB-S2 carrier monitoring systems
link availability. and other mobile VSAT forward carriers with symbol for an end-to-end, all
TDMA carriers up to markets the SatLink 2910 rates up to 200 Msps. Also, inclusive network planning/
8 Msps are supported, uses the VSAT Antenna the new DVB-S2 extensions management operation: real-
enabling information rates up Control Protocol (VACP), an currently being standardized by time carrier measurements
to 24 Mbps on return links. open protocol developed DVB, like 64APSK modulation, can be incorporated into the
All satellite bands are by STM and supported will be supported. refinement and assessment
supported by the SatLink by most manufacturers of At the same time this of planned traffic. Likewise,
2910 VSAT indoor unit, stabilized antennas. VACP new modem will perform spectrum plans can be loaded
including: C-, Ku-, and enables seamless beam and burst demodulation for up to into the monitoring system
Ka-bands. satellite handovers for mobile 64 DVB-RCS2 return carriers with a simple mouse click so
The new 2910 is VSATs when roaming or simultaneously, each using the planned traffic can be
especially well suited experiencing blockages. ACM per burst with an IP immediately monitored for
for powerful new High- The SatLink 2910, throughput of 150 Mbps. performance verification.
Throughput Satellites in like other SatLink VSATs, The hardware platform SAMS™ comes packaged
Ku- and Ka-band. In some is fully configured and for the modem will also with a SAMS™ Server and
maritime and mobile markets automatically controlled contain an integrated Network an integrated SAMS™
from the Hub, avoiding the Control Center (NCC) function workstation for a true turn-key,
download of configuration handling all TDMA return link plug-and-play solution.
files or any manual actions burst scheduling and burst
during beam handovers. performance tracking for up http://www.glowlink.com
to 10,000 active VSATs. #
#
22 MilsatMagazine—April 2013The Dilemma Of Decreased Spending
According to Euroconsult’s profound structural changes in Following a peak launch
newly released research the last decade. In 2003, the of 65 satellites in 2011,
report Government Space top three civil space programs governments worldwide
Markets, World Prospects to (U.S., Europe, Japan) sustained a dynamic
2022, government spending accounted for 90 percent of launch rate in 2012 with 58
on space reached a peak world’s civil expenditures. In satellites for civil and defense
in 2012 of $72.9 billion, 2012, their share accounted applications, marking the
activities is anticipated to pass
a non-negligible increase for only 64 percent illustrating second highest launch rate
the $77 billion mark.
compared to 2011, which the “decentralization” of over the last decade. #
The landscape for civil
followed two consecutive space investment worldwide.
space activities has experienced
years of minimal growth.
This upswing is attributed
to increased activity of
countries such as Russia,
China, India and new world
or regional leaders who
compensated for budget
uncertainties affecting
North America and Europe.
Euroconsult expects global
government expenditures
on space to decrease due
to fiscal policies exerting
continuous pressure on public
finances; improvement is not
expected before 2015.
“As forecasted in the
previous editions of this
research report, global
government spending
in space has entered a
deceleration phase,” said
Steve Bochinger, COO at
Euroconsult. “2013 should
mark for the first time in
12 years a global decrease
in government funding for
space programs.”
According to the
research report, government
space programs should be
affected in the short term
by an overall flat spending
environment and decrease in
global funding.
The situation is
expected to recover in the
second part of the decade,
driven by a cleaner public
finance environment, a new
procurement cycle and R&D
in historical leading space
nations, and sustained
spending from new world/
regional leaders and nascent
programs. By 2022 global
government funding for space
MilsatMagazine—April 2013 23InfoBeam
Dispatches
First Year Celebration Comms For Rotary
ViaSat Inc. is marking the The 12Mbps baseline major shift from the previous Hughes Network Systems,
one-year anniversary this download speed offered generations of satellite LLC has successfully
month of the nationwide by Exede Internet is eight Internet service, which were demonstrated high-
rollout of its Exede times faster than previous considered to be a “last throughput video and data
Internet service, which generation satellite services. resort” for those with no other transmission over. SATCOM
uses the ViaSat-1 satellite, While the feasibility Internet alternative. links on a variety of rotary
the most advanced and and value of such a major Beyond residential wing platforms.
highest capacity satellite in technology advance was Internet, the ViaSat high- Employing an advanced
the world. initially questioned in the capacity satellite system waveform technology
The consistently speedy industry, the Exede experience is poised to re-shape developed by Hughes, the
performance of the Exede has quickly demonstrated communication services in new communications-on-
residential broadband that there is a much bigger other industries as well: the-move (COTM) microsat
service has helped ViaSat appetite for satellite Faster, easier-to-use, system achieved zero packet
reach more than 285,000 broadband in the market than and more cost-effective loss on transmission and
subscribers on ViaSat-1 in its most people anticipated. communications and video reception through the rotor
first year of operation. Powered by ViaSat-1— streaming for live events, blades, over both Ka and
The total subscriber now officially recognized such as newsgathering, Ku-band satellite channels.
count across all ViaSat as the World’s Highest concerts, and sports, Tests were conducted
satellites has surpassed Capacity Communications as well as emergency on a variety of military and
500,000 for the first time. Satellite with a Guinness response operations commercial helicopters
“Our results prove that World Records title—Exede Improved in-flight in both static and in-flight
driving down the cost of service has moved into Internet that can provide environments that included
bandwidth can make satellite the mainstream of Internet enough high-speed numerous pitch, bank and
a better choice than slower options. A February 2013 FCC bandwidth for every roll maneuvers.
terrestrial alternatives,” report showed Exede Internet passenger on the plane In all cases, the Hughes
said Mark Dankberg, outperforming all other ISPs in Higher-definition, higher- microsat system successfully
chairman and CEO of ViaSat. delivering promised speeds to volume mobile video transmitted full motion
“The market success of subscribers, with 90 percent gathering and dissemination video (FMV) beyond the
ViaSat-1 strengthens our of Exede subscribers receiving for military operations line-of-sight (BLoS) through
commitment to delivering 140 percent or better of the ViaSat showcased these the rotor blades over
a series of new satellites advertised 12 Mbps speed new services at Satellite 2013 conventional Ku-band
that push the boundaries of during peak periods. in March, with interactive global beam and Ka-band
what’s possible in satellite Approximately 40 percent newsgathering, military ISR, global or spot beam
broadband across a broad of new Exede subscribers and in-flight broadband satellites.
range of opportunities.” are choosing the satellite demonstrations. Experts The system operates with
service over other alternatives from several ViaSat business a variety of commercially-
available to them, such as areas also participated in six available airborne antennas,
DSL, cable, and mobile conference panel sessions. # facilitating integration with
wireless for fixed home use—a various government, military
and commercial platforms.
The Hughes microsat
rotary wing system is based on
the company’s advanced HX
satellite broadband platform,
which meets the Federal
Information Processing (FIPS)
140-2, Level 2 encryption
standard and employs
patented and patent pending
waveform technology. #
Artistic rendition of the ViaSat-1 satellite.
24 MilsatMagazine—April 2013Thwart Thought For ECM
Allen-Vanguard has released a further application for
its software defined, open architecture EQUINOX
Electronic Countermeasure system.
This new application will provide remote command
and control of EQUINOX units from anywhere in the world.
This represents a game changer in the way ECM can be
used and maintained. Providing real time diagnostics and
sending updated waveforms using secure communication
protocols will benefit the logistics chain. Dynamically
changing protective profiles will be a real boost to
deployed Electronic Warfare Coordination Cells as well as
headquarters which could be on the far side of the globe.
“This is a very exciting development and one that
shows the true versatility of a software defined system such
as EQUINOX” said Allen-Vanguard CEO, Dennis Morris.
The server-based application provides users global access
via a web-based interface to deployed EQUINOX assets
worldwide. This marks the first known real time Machine to
Machine (M2M) connectivity of Electronic Countermeasures.
Users will get full situational awareness of deployed systems
as well as be able to securely provision and get feedback
from all their assets on the ground.
Mr. Morris continued. “Using the Short Burst Data of the
Iridium network in collaboration with Track24, we are able
to provide a cheap COTS communications transport layer
that can seamlessly be integrated onto existing platforms to
provide an immediate capability”. #
MilsatMagazine—April 2013 25InfoBeam
Dispatches
The Odyssey Shall Continue...
Sea Launch AG and Kjell Karlsen, president of “This preliminary “We have been pleased
EchoStar Satellite Services, a Sea Launch, added, “We agreement with Sea Launch with Sea Launch’s performance
wholly owned subsidiary of are pleased to extend our provides EchoStar with on past missions and look
EchoStar Corp. (NASDAQ: relationship with EchoStar and the flexibility we require to forward to continued success.”
SATS), have announced we look forward to providing accommodate our launch
that Sea Launch has been the required flexibility, requirements as we undertake #
identified as the intended performance and diversity of the expansion of our North
launch services provider for supply necessary to support American fleet,” said Anders
the launch of a satellite from their business plan.” Johnson, president of EchoStar
the ocean-based Odyssey Satellite Services.
launch platform in 2015.
Sea Launch’s Zenit-3SL
vehicle is suited for launching
heavyweight-class spacecraft,
with multiple restart capability
and heavy-lift performance.
Sea Launch’s history with
EchoStar dates back to 2003.
Most recently it launched the
EchoStar XI satellite.
Sergey Gugkaev, chief
executive officer of Sea
Launch, said, “Sea Launch
welcomes the opportunity
to support EchoStar’s launch
requirement in 2015.”
A New Earth Station Equipment Marketplace...
New Era Systems is buyers save money, and also Robert Bell, Executive Teleport Association. We
celebrating its 13th year in help turn surplus antennas Director of the World look forward to adding them
business and has created and gear into cash.” Teleport Association to the WTA marketplace,
an initiative to foster a New Era Systems is (WTA), commented on and to working with New
more robust and efficient inviting World Teleport the initiative... “We are Era Systems to educate our
previously-used Earth station Association members and delighted to welcome New members on after-market
equipment marketplace. teleports, as well as Earth Era Systems to the World equipment opportunities.”
The campaign kicks off station owners, operators and
with a drawing for a free iPad. affiliates, to register interest
New Era Systems in creating a more robust
estimates there are hundreds after-market and join the
of millions of dollars worth discussion, with the chance
of unused antenna and RF to win a free iPad at http://
equipment assets in satellite www.newerasystems.net/
Earth stations around the ipad-registration.html.
world that could be profitably “We will work with
re-employed elsewhere. teleports and the industry
“Until now, however, to create a more efficient
there has not been a well- and transparent after-market
known industry resource for for satellite equipment,”
buying and selling used gear, Thomas added.
or disposal of large antenna
systems,” according to Phil
Thomas, President of New Era
Systems. “Our goal is to raise
awareness of the pre-owned
equipment market place—
where we can help antenna
26 MilsatMagazine—April 2013Hot Fire Tests
Engines fired for the cells and one sea-level- number of engines hot fire
military, Sandia, MELCO capable rocket test cell. tested in 2012 exceeded the
and others were 50 percent In 2012, Moog performed amount fired in 2010 by more
more in number in 2012 hot fire tests on engines than 100 percent.
than in 2011, and more than (ranging in thrust levels from “The utilization rate
100 percent from those approximately 250 lbf to less for our five test cells is
tested in 2010. than 1 lbf) for commercial approximately 90 percent,
Within the past year, and military clients, including and we are now building a
Moog ISP, part of Moog Inc.’s Sandia and MELCO. sixth vacuum-capable rocket
Space and Defense Group, “When selecting spacecraft test cell in Niagara Falls that
successfully conducted more instruments, performance we expect to operate by the
than 7,900 hot fire tests on and reliability are the most end of 2013,” said Donnelly.
400 engines for at least 14 important criteria,” said Masato Moog ISP usually
different customers. Kotani, system engineer at assembles all of the engines
In addition to testing MELCO. “We work with Moog and propulsion systems it tests
engines and a variety of ISP because we have always at its Niagara Falls facility.
propellants and propulsion been completely satisfied with Once an engine is tested for
systems, Moog ISP the in-orbit performance of pressure, flow and vibration, Pictured: Tom Donnelly, Moog
manufactures liquid rocket their products.” it is then hot fired to verify Propulsion Test Manager, inside
one of the rocket test cells at his
engines, tanks and propulsion According to Thomas performance characteristics company’s Niagara Falls,
systems for satellites and Donnelly, Propulsion Test such as thrust and chamber New York facility.
launch vehicles. Moog ISP Manager for Moog ISP, the temperature prior to delivery
conducts hot fire tests at number of engines fired in to the customer. #
its Niagara Falls, New York 2012 was approximately 50
facility which includes four percent higher than the mark
vacuum-capable rocket test hit in 2011. And the total
MilsatMagazine—April 2013 27InfoBeam
Dispatches
An EPOCH™ Satellite Program
EPOCH is used to support EPOCH IPS is used to equipment and network
more than 50 Space support more than 50 Space management and payload
Systems/Loral 1300 Systems/Loral 1300 satellites management solutions.
satellites around the globe, around the globe, far more The company’s EPOCH
far more than any other than any other Command & IPS, an all-in-one Fleet
Command & Control system Control system in the world. Management solution, is the
in the world. The contract expands the most widely used Command
Kratos Defense & Security number of AsiaSat satellites & Control system with
Solutions, Inc. has announced managed by EPOCH IPS to successful installations in
that its Kratos Integral seven, including satellites five continents.
Systems International (Kratos supplied by three different Artistic rendition of the AsiaSat-6 Government clients
satellite. Courtesy of SS/L.
ISI) business unit has been manufacturers, demonstrating include the National Space
awarded a contract by Asia the flexibility and ease of use Organization (NSPO) of
Satellite Telecommunications of EPOCH IPS to manage Director, Technical Operations Taiwan, Vietnam Posts
Co. Ltd. (AsiaSat) to provide satellite fleets no matter the of AsiaSat. and Telecommunications
Command & Control systems configuration or size. “There is no better Group (VNPT), European
for the AsiaSat 6 and AsiaSat “We are excited to have testimony to the value of Organization for the
8 satellite programs. selected Kratos ISI as the Kratos’ products and the Exploitation of Meteorological
AsiaSat will expand its use Satellite Control Facility quality of our service than Satellites (EUMETSAT),
of Kratos ISI’s industry-leading supplier for the two new repeat awards from long- Secretaria de Comunicaciones
EPOCH™ Integrated Product additions to our expanding term customers,” said James y Transportes (SCT) of
Suite (IPS) Fleet Management fleet—AsiaSat 6 and AsiaSat Kramer, Senior Vice President México, NASA, the U.S.
System to support the AsiaSat 8. Following their launches in of Kratos ISI. “We are honored Air Force and the National
6 and AsiaSat 8 satellite the first half of 2014, we will that AsiaSat has again selected Oceanic and Atmospheric
programs. be able to offer the highest Kratos ISI to expand their Administration (NOAA).
AsiaSat 6 will have 28 high- transponder power ever for EPOCH IPS fleet management Commercial clients
power C-band transponders, a broad range of satellite system to operate AsiaSat 6 include AsiaSat, Asia
and AsiaSat 8 will have 24 services in the Asia Pacific. and AsiaSat 8.” Broadcast Satellite,
Ku-band transponders and a Over the past years, AsiaSat For 30 years, Kratos Broadcasting Satellite
Ka-band beam. has witnessed the continuous ISI has been a leading System Corporation (B-SAT),
The high-power improvement of the EPOCH provider of satellite ground Chunghwa Telecom,
transponders on the satellites IPS family products, which systems supporting EchoStar, Hellas Sat,
will enable the use of small reinforces our confidence approximately 300 satellite Indovision, Intelsat, KT
antennas on the ground. in ISI’s commitment to missions. Kratos ISI offers Corporation, PT Telkom,
The two Space Systems/ excellence. We are pleased turnkey ground segments SatMex, SES, SingTel/Optus,
Loral 1300 satellites are to work with Kratos ISI again solutions encompassing SKY Perfect JSAT, Thaicom,
currently under construction and are confident that Kratos Command & Control, RF/ and Telesat. #
and scheduled for launch in ISI will deliver the project on IF equipment, satellite and
the first half of 2014. time to support our upcoming terrestrial communications
launches,” said Fred Ho, signal monitoring systems,
Contract For Interference...
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. announced satellite uplink and downlink performance. Monics’
that its SAT Corporation (SAT) subsidiary has also native scalability and flexibility enable a fully distributed,
received a multi-million dollar order to provide satellite autonomous system for monitoring payload traffic and RF
interference detection and quality of service monitoring. interference, including co-channel interference.
The contract includes SAT’s satellite monitoring This will be the first satellite operator to implement
product, Monics®, an enterprise networked advanced both Monics and SAT’s new Monics Enterprise Manager
spectrum measurement and interference analysis (MEM). MEM will provide greatly enhanced visibility into
system used by the majority of satellite operators and the customer’s satellite payload performance along with
telecommunications providers around the world. As a centralized control over their monitoring assets. MEM adds
complete carrier monitoring system, Monics also provides an improved user interface that includes custom displays for
advanced interference detection and analysis capabilities. alarm and data management as well as enhanced system
The Monics implementation will combine hardware administration. #
and software components to provide monitoring for
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