All ADF personnel and platforms must be able to coordinate and share information with other parts of the organisation, as appropriate and secure, as components of a larger system. Each service has its own communications networks for activities within its own domain. As soon as joint action with other services, including common use of electronic network and space communications is involved, a high level of planning, cooperation, facilities provision and actual signals management is required.
Multiple ADF communications networks are structured to provide the necessary capabilities, while maintaining an effective level of connectivity. Naturally there are strict controls and continuous monitoring in place to ensure that each network is used for the purposes intended without creating security compromises.
When working with Five Eyes and other country partners’ forces, special emphasis is placed not only on functionality, but also that the appropriate level of security is maintained. Australia’s defence industry has been to the fore in supplying communications systems, including customising them as necessary, while also enlisting many Australian small to medium enterprises in these projects.
IMPORTANT CURRENT COMMUNICATION PROJECTS
APDR asked a Defence spokesperson if they would identify the most important projects being worked on at the moment.
The spokesperson’s response was ‘Defence has a number of current major acquisition projects for the delivery of communications systems including:
• SEA1442 Maritime Communications Modernisation is a multi-phased program for the enhancement of Navy’s maritime communications capability. It will upgrade ANZAC Class Frigate communication systems and address obsolescence to improve communications management.
• JP2072 Phase 2B Battlespace Communications System (Land) is replacing and enhancing the existing Battlefield Telecommunications Network (BTN) capability within Army and Air Force.
• JP2008 Defence Satellite Communications Capability is a multi-phased program providing a functional SATCOM capability for Defence.
• JP9103 Protected Satellite Communications will provide the necessary space segment and shore infrastructure required to enable a sovereign Advanced Extremely High Frequency satellite communications capability.
This is an excerpt from APDR. To read the full story click here.
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