Assessment of long-distance HF radio and satellite communication assets for RNLAF out-of-area operations

Abstract : This report presents the relative assessment of various long-haul communication systems in order to fulfill the need for communications between the rear area and Royal Netherlands Airforce (RNLAF) units deployed in out- of-area operations. Four different communication systems are compared with respect to the operational aspects: High Frequency (HF) radio communication systems; Military satellite communication (SATCOM) systems; Public access SATCOM systems (such as the INMARSAT system); Private SATCOM networks (based on the use of very small aperture terminals (VSATs)). The comparison is based on the current available communications assets. Future technical developments and their consequences for the system comparison are also discussed.