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Table of Contents |
One of the most critical functions for C2 of the GSM is to establish communications and datalinks. Each GSM relies on multiple means of communications and data transfer. Without these nodes, the operational capability of the GSMs would be severely diminished. Additionally, each supported echelon and command will have different communications, cryptographic material, and datalink requirements.
Ultimately, each command will be responsible for establishing all internal C2 nets to include providing the supporting GSM the command's SOI, crypto, and other COMSEC information. For the GSMs within corps or division, it is imperative that a net is setup for cueing operations, information sharing, and requesting RSRs through GSMs with aircraft uplink approval. Figure B-1 shows the GSM nets within corps and division.
Each corps will receive uplink capability for only 15 GSMs. The corps G2 is responsible for dividing this capability between the corps, subordinate divisions, and the ACR. An example would be:
The GSMs located with the ACE at corps and division would be the net controlling station (NCS) and control the uplink asset management. The division G2 or collection manager would initially assign which GSM will have the uplink capability. The other GSMs would be receive-only.
CONNECTIVITY |
Multiple means of communications and data transfer provide maximum flexibility, reliability, and responsiveness to battlefield commander's operational needs. The GSM provides multichannel VHF, UHF, and SATCOM communications, as well as MSE, STU-III, cellular telephone, TA-312, and secure FAX. Figures B-2 through B-6 show communications connectivity and information flow at various echelons and units.
CRYPTOGRAPHIC MATERIAL, COMMUNICATIONS SECURITY, AND SIGNALS OPERATIONS INSTRUCTIONS |
The cryptographic and signal logistics requirements for all the electronic equipment within the GSM is immense. A brigade will normally not be able to support a GSM with all of its cryptographic and signal requirements. Corps and divisions, through their COMSEC account, will have to request the majority of the cryptographic material required by the GSMs, which includes--
In the field, TRAP and TRADIX-B are used with the new terms (Tactical Data Dissemination System [TDDS] and Tactical Onboard Processing System [TOPS]). (See Appendix D.)
The MI brigade (corps) and MI battalion (division) will maintain and distribute all JTT, Joint STARS SCDL, and GSM communications net cryptographic material. The MI unit is responsible for disseminating it. Theater Army GSMs will be supported by Theater and Army level COMSEC accounts.
When initially establishing the COMSEC requirements for their subordinate Joint STARS GSMs, MACOMs must coordinate with the Army Joint STARS detachment located with the Air Force E-8 squadron at Robins AFB for Joint STARS contingency cryptographic material. The cryptographic material is then requested via COMSEC channels and will be maintained at corps level in the MI brigade as well as at EAC. Other units which hold GSM contingency missions (such as 111th MI Brigade, Joint Test Facility, and Joint STARS Training Facility) will also hold contingency cryptographic material.
During Joint STARS mission planning and prior to mission operations, EAC and corps level units will coordinate through their Air Force liaison officer (LNO) and BCE for SCDL parameter data, flight tracks, aircraft callsigns, radio frequencies, and mission information (time on station, altitude, GRCA, time of station).
The corps MI brigade must pass this information down to supporting divisions and the ACR. Each division MI battalion must distribute this information to supporting brigades. Non-organic GSMs deployed to support other Army units will coordinate through the Ml brigade or battalion for signal support. GSM teams supporting other services (for example, USMC, USN) will receive Joint STARS mission information, frequencies, and cryptographic material from EAC and Theater MI units. Units unsure of cryptographic support should contact the Army Joint STARS detachment.
All units receiving GSMs are required to integrate the GSM communications requirements into their SOIs. Corps and division communications and electronic officers are responsible for this integration and for assisting subordinate units in defining their requirements. Figure B-7 lists all communications and data systems within the LGSM. Figure B-8 shows responsibility and requirements for each Army echelon and unit.
