(a) Assigned service components must provide input on their organization and special
communications requirements to the J6 early in the planning for SOI development and frequency
allocation. The J6 develops the SOI based on the input received and internal criteria pertinent to the
mission.
(b) Planning for the SOI must include factors such as types of radios available in
subordinate or friendly units, cryptographic equipment, key lists, and frequency allocations available
from the host nation(s) for the particular area of operation.
(c) Equipment compatibility is a major issue in network planning for HF and VHF
systems. The planning must cover both (FH) and single-channel modes of operation. US forces use
SINCGARS-compatible radios, but friendly nations may not have compatible FH radios. Therefore,
plans should address interface between single-channel and FH radios, or lateral placement of compatible
radios in friendly CPs.
(d) SINCGARS requires special key list variables to operate in the FH mode. These
variables are developed and distributed from the highest level possible (usually the J6), but they may be
developed at a lower level for special operations within the theater.
(e) The J6 controls cryptographic material (key lists and devices) to ensure
interoperability at all levels. However, friendly forces may need to be augmented with US equipment
and personnel for compatibility.
(f) Frequency allocations are area-dependent. SOIs should reflect common frequencies
if a unit changes its area of operation.
(g) The J6 uses the battlefield electronic CEOI system (BECS) for automated production
of the mission SOI. Since the input from units of the joint task force determines the quality of the SOI
produced, the J6 must validate the data received to ensure all contingencies are addressed. After
production, the SOI is transferred to the subscribers electronically, by paper copy, or by fill device.
6.
Frequency management.
a. Battlefield spectrum management (BSM) is managing electromagnetic spectrum resources to
support telecommunications and electronic warfare (EW) requirements. This includes allocating and
assigning the generating-frequency resources and distributing the variables for FH radio systems.
Management items include frequencies, transmission security key (TSK) variables, net identifiers,
COMSEC variables, and time. International agreements determine frequency allocations. TSK
variables, net identifiers, time, and assignment of frequencies to hopsets are distributed at the discretion
of corps and division signal planners. However, equipment parameters impose some constraints on the
distribution schemes for TSKs, net identifiers, and frequency allocations to hopsets, particularly for HF
systems.
1-13
SS0133
Previous Page
