TSM-SATCOM: Global Broadcast Service. (TSM update).

Global Broadcast Service is in the threshold of becoming a viable component of the deployed warfighters' Internet Protocol based information arsenal. The GBS architecture has been converting from an Asynchronous Transfer Mode to an IP-based network during the past two years.

All the satellite broadcast managers have converted to simulcast operations allowing them to support both ATM and IP during this transition phase. Based on major subordinate command operational need requests, HQDA G3 requested and the Program Executive Officer Command, Control, Communications--Tactical approved an Urgent Material Release for 130 of the IP-based Transportable Ground Receive Suites. Based on this guidance, the Program Manager for Warfighter Information Network-Tactical (GBS-Army) is in the process of coordinating the hand-receipt of the TGRS equipment to units in accordance with HQDA G3 established priorities. Issuance of the IP TGRS in accordance with the UMR includes conduct of New Equipment Training and will continue through 2nd Qtr FY06 when Full Material Release is projected.

GBS is a high-speed, one-way information flow of high volume data to units deployed, or in garrison, and is a component of the military satellite communications architecture. The GBS system is not intended to replace existing MILSATCOM systems. Instead, it supports existing requirements by providing the capability to distribute large information products to user platforms thereby relieving that burden from critical two-way SATCOM systems.

Information products are developed and distributed using a "Smart Push" and/or "User Pull" philosophy to avoid saturating deployed forces with "information overload." This capability allows existing and planned satellite communications systems to support the two-way communications needs of force elements while providing a means for GBS users to request information.

Information products such as imagery, weather, mapping, logistics, national intelligence, and theater intelligence are assembled and broadcast to the user. The information may be in the form of video (classified or unclassified) or data (classified or unclassified). The information sources are identified and contacted as part of the overall GBS responsibilities. A baseline hardware design was selected for the Army IP Transportable Ground Receive Suites consisting of three transit cases--two for the antenna assemblage, called the Next Generation Receive Terminal, and one for the RBM components (88XR). This transition to IP will provide modularity, expandability, enhanced capability, dynamic bandwidth allocation, and the application of industry standards, all significant improvements over the current capabilities.

For more information on the GBS program call Lynn Epperson, DSN 780-2352, COMM (706) 7912352, email: harold.lynn.epperson@us.army.mil

Mr. Epperson is a retired Army lieutenant colonel who served in various capacities both in the Army Signal Corps and joint assignments. He is employed by Femme Comp Inc. and supports the TRADOC System Manager for Satellite Communications at Fort Gordon, Ga.

ACRONYM QUICKSCAN

ATM--Asynchronous Transfer Mode C3T-Command, Control, Communications--Tactical GBS--Global Broadcast Service IP--Internet Protocol MILSATCOM--military satellite communications NET--New Equipment Training NGRT--Next Generation Receive Terminal PEO--Program Executive Officer PM--Program Manager SBMs--Satellite Broadcast Managers TGRS--Transportable Ground Receive Suites UMBR--Urgent Material Release WIN-T--Warfighter Information Network-Tactical