e. Interfacing. A division integrates with its corps by installing multichannel links between
division area nodes and corps area nodes. The corps provides the multichannel assemblage at division's
location. Further integrating can occur by using net radio interface (NRI). NRI allows a radio operator
access to the ACUS and vice versa. NRI provides the user the flexibility to overcome distance between
units on the battlefield. NRI can be a combat multiplier when more commanders recognize its worth
and regularly train in its use.
f. Signal Node Network.
(1) A signal node, often referred to as a signal center, is a group of communications facilities
where the signal operations are managed, controlled, and directed. It contains an array of assemblages
that may perform switching, relay, systems control, and multichannel operations. There are area signal
nodes and extension nodes. To better understand the functions of these nodes, look at how each type
supports a unit. Refer to Figure 2-2, page 2-6, which depicts a heavy division LOS multichannel
terrestrial system.
(2) The division signal battalion has four companies: a headquarters and headquarters
company (HHC), a command operations company, a forward communications company, and an area
signal company. The line companies provide the uninterrupted communication the division needs
during battle. Note that the area signal nodes are assets of the division signal battalion and serve no CP
directly.
(3) Area signal nodes are established by the signal battalion commander as he considers LOS
and distances between units. They are displaced as needed to support the scheme of maneuver. The
extension nodes support unit headquarters or CP. For example, at a maneuver brigade, a signal platoon
leader is responsible for providing C2 and supervising operations with his extension node. The platoon
leader is a key player in the brigade, attending staff meetings and briefing the brigade S3 and
commander on the status of signal support.
(4) Looking at signal node one in Figure 2-2, page 2-6, you can see that it terminates LOS
multichannel systems from each of the maneuver brigade headquarters, the division tactical (Div TAC)
CP, the Div Main CP, the Div Rear CP, the division military intelligence (MI) battalion, an adjacent
division system, and nodes two and three. Note how redundancy is provided through alternate routing
as more nodes are added.
(5)As depicted in Figure 2-2, page 2-6, area signal node two terminates LOS multichannel systems from
the maneuver brigades, the Div TAC CP, the Div Main CP, the division support command (DISCOM),
the division artillery (DIVARTY), the division engineer battalion, an adjacent division system, and
nodes one and three.
2-5
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