Army Reserve acquires new satellite communication system

ATLANTA-The U.S. Army Reserve Command has received its first theater signal communications satellite system. This system provides instantaneous direct communication between units located half a world away.

The AN/TSC-94A (V) 1, the Department of Defense name for the satellite system, is selfcontained and easily transportable. The satellite communications terminal is mounted on a fourwheeled trailer, which can deploy an eight or 20-foot antenna. The equipment and operator section is contained in a tactical shelter, providing the soldiers a controlled environment for operations.

The communications suite provides the user up to 24 channels of secure communications transmission, and provides a wide spectrum of analog or digital data transmission capabilities. The terminal can operate on either generator power or standard 120 volt AC current.

The new system has been assigned to the 335th Theater Signal Command in East Point, Ga. The 335th provides signal and communications support to Third U.S. Army and Central Command in Southwest Asia.

"This new equipment will give us an expanded capability to conduct communications missions and support to the warfighter," said Col. Wayne Morgan, chief of staff for the 335th. "This gives Third Army a communications reach which was previously unavailable."

The new equipment also requires new personnel to operate it. The 335th is implementing a plan to stand up the 1st Signal Detachment (TACSAT) to support the equipment and mission. This element will consist of about two-dozen communications and support personnel, all qualified to man and operate the satellite communications terminal.

Recruiting for the positions is well underway, with a special emphasis on Military Occupational Skill 31 IS.

Once the detachment's ranks are filled, the 335th will start deploying the equipment to support Third U.S. Army in various exercises in the upcoming year. This year's training events include Roving Sands 2001, considered the world's largest air defense and communications exercise, held annually at Ft. Bliss, Texas and Bright Star 2002 in Egypt.

For information on joining the 33 5th contact Maj. Chris Ingle at 404-559-4626 or Sgt. 1st Class Shelton Nicholson at 404-559-5403. You can also visit their website at www.usarc.army.mil/335th.

[Author Affiliation]

By Maj. Dave Acevedo

[Author Affiliation]

(Maj. Acevedo is with the 335th Theater Signal Command)