Troposcatter for Tactical Communications

Abstract

Tactical communications systems are characterized by severe limitations on size, weight, and setup time, which are dictated by the mobility requirements of the tactical environment. Conventional troposcatter systems, which almost universally use frequency modulation and space diversity, are inherently at a disadvantage in such an environment. By combiing pulse modulation with frequency diversity, a competely new system has been evolved, one which is more nearly optimum for use in tactical situations. This system achieves quadruple diversity over paths of 100 miles or more while requiring only a single antenna, transmitter power amplifier, and receiver "front-end" at either end of the path. In addition, the multiple-frequency feature which makes possible frequency diversity is used to provide multiplexing of 24 voice channels plus the usual order-wire facility.