C4I2 in Space: Solving the SatCom Shortfall,

Abstract : Without a coordinated team-effort, an army can not hope for control on the battlefield. Without effective communication, a commander can not hope for effective command and control of his army. In today's highly-centralized, global command network, standard terrestrial communications alone are insufficient. Satellite communication is indispensable for command and control on today's battlefield, but requirements for SatCom far outstrip available resources. To exacerbate this problem, demand for reliable, long-haul, high- quality communication continues to grow geometrically. Satellites offer many well-known advantages for C4I2 in battlefield operations. These advantages include long range, freedom from obstructions, high quality, and increased interoperability. Satellite transmission allows units to communicate reliably over long distances.