The future use of DSCS and commercial satellites in the U.S. Navy

Abstract

This thesis considers the Navy's use of the Defense Satellite Communications System (DSCS), International Maritime Satellite (INMARSAT) network, and the International Telecommunications Satellite (INTELSAT) system with emphasis on the future utilization of C, X, and Ku-band Super High Frequency (SHF) communications in the Navy's satellite communications (SATCOM) architecture. It evaluates all three systems addressing critical issues such as anti-jamming capability, survivability, timeliness, availability, interoperability, and capacity. All three satellite systems currently have a place in the Navy's SATCOM architecture. This thesis focuses on the advantages and disadvantages that the DSCS satellite network offers the Navy and recommends using DSCS for low capacity protected circuits and high capacity unprotected service in the future. Additionally, a recommendation is made for a future high capacity DSCS follow-on satellite. This thesis also addresses the advantages and disadvantages that INMARSAT and INTELSAT offer the Navy and recommends that these systems be used as surge communication mediums in the future. Defense Satellite Communications System (DSCS), International Maritime Satellite (RSAT), International Telecommunications Satellite (INTELSAT), Super High Frequency Satellite Communications (SHF SATCOM)