Toward a Universal Radio Frequency System for Special Operations Forces

The U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) was formed in response to the failed rescue attempt in 1980 of American hostages held by Iran. Among its key responsibilities, SOCOM plans and synchronizes operations against terrorist networks. Special operations forces (SOF) often operate alone in austere environments with only the items they can carry, which makes equipment size, weight, and power needs especially important. Specialized radios and supporting equipment must be carried by the teams for their radio-frequency (RF) operations. As warfighting demands on SOCOM have intensified, SOCOM's needs for significantly improved radio-frequency (RF) systems have increased. Toward a Universal Radio Frequency System for Special Operations Forces examines the current state of the art for both handheld and manpackable platform-mounted RF systems, and determines which frequencies could be provided by handheld systems. The book also explores whether or not a system that fulfills SOF's unique requirements could be deployed in a reasonable time period. Several recommendations are included to address these and other issues. Table of Contents Front Matter Toward a Universal Radio Frequency System for Special Operations Forces: Abbreviated Version Appendixes Appendix A: Biographical Sketches of Committee Members Appendix B: Meetings and Participating Organizations Appendix C: Selected Findings and Recommendations from Previous National Research Council Reports Related to Power and Energy Sources