Packet Technology a Satellite Channel Multiplier

UHF satellite communications have become increasingly important for tactical military applications and the demand for satellite channels has surpassed the number of available channels. This paper addresses some of the satellite communications problems encountered by three major commands; the Military Airlift Command (MAC), the United States Readiness Command and the United States Central Command. Their need for simultaneous voice and data channels requires an innovative approach to channel assignment, allocation, and control. The approach presented here is entitled the Packet DAMA Communications System. Packet DAMA utilizes recent innovations in packet satellite communications to enhance the flexibility, adaptability, and performance of voice and data networks.