A SPACE-BASED AFSCN AUGMENTATION SYSTEM

Abstract

The Air Force Satellite Control Network(AFSCN) supports DoD satellite systems for C2, monitoring, as well as providing a communications path for mission data. The present ground-based system is limited in the coverage of satellites, the survivability of communications links as well as the foreign-based RTS’s. The proposed concept is to field a satellite segment to augment the AFSCN, which would provide both backup as well as new services (such as providing real-time, survivable C2 and mission data). The proposed system would maximize transparency to the existing SCN and user satellites, and could provide a “bridge” to the future capabilities of the Integrated Satellite Control System (ISCS). The objectives of the study just concluded were to define system requirements, identify and develop satellite concepts, and evaluate the feasibility and cost effectiveness of the concepts. Concepts were developed that provide varying capabilities to enhance the AFSCN. Operational concepts for this system were defined. A proof-of-concept demonstration, which is proposed for a future phase of the study, was defined, so that system and cost effectiveness of the proposed system could be further evaluated. This paper will discuss the results of study for AFSSD-XRS to provide the Air Force with data and a well defined concept to augment the SCN and provide new, innovative services to DoD satellite assets, as well as advance the introduction of the survivable C2 as defined in the Integrated Satellite Control System (ISCS). The concepts explored in this study can also be part of the larger concept to provide enduring and direct support to operational military users (TACSAT).