Spectrum Management Systems

Battlespace Spectrum Management Systems

Whenever a military force transits to a host nation and subsequently uses spectrum-dependent systems in a host nation-state, there is a complex spectrum management activity needed. There is much myth. Some say that Article 48 of the ITU Charter gives a military force the right of spectrum use. This applies only when a nation is itself attacked.

When visiting a host nation (under whatever mandate), spectrum management begins with a process of negotiation with the host regulator for adequate spectrum for the visiting force. From the negotiated bill, the battlespace spectrum manager subtracts known red force and civil spectrum, frequencies on the Joint Restricted Frequency List with taboo and guarded channels and subtracts safety of life frequencies.

The result is frequently a massive shortfall that will in the coming years only get worse in every nation in the world. Battlespace spectrum management is much more complex than civil or national spectrum regulation. It takes knowledge of military operations, spectrum regulation, law, economics, military and civil spectrum dependent systems and the ability to work in what is often a restricted or secret environment.

InterConnect consultants have implemented battlespace spectrum management systems comprising Commercial Off-The-Shelf and custom applications and components. They have developed assignment and allotment components for bands from HF to SHF. And they have developed specifications for future spectrum management systems using the UK's Ministry of Defence Architecture Framework (MODAF) as modelling method.