Satellite Communications (SATCOM) - MC017

The SATCOM course provides a comprehensive overview of military and allied satellite communications systems, focusing on their principles, operational use, and evolving technologies. Participants learn about the structure and function of SATCOM, including the roles of ground, space, and user segments, as well as the use of electromagnetic spectrum, advantages of various orbits and waveform technologies. The course covers the Australian Defence Force’s (ADF) use of SATCOM, highlighting key systems such as WGS, Optus C1, Intelsat 22, and the integration of commercial and military networks for strategic, tactical, and wellbeing communications across land, sea, and air platforms.

The curriculum also explores allied and future SATCOM capabilities, including protected and wideband systems (AEHF, MUOS, Skynet, EUTELSAT), the growing role of commercial constellations (Starlink, OneWeb, Inmarsat), and emerging technologies like laser communications and adaptive networking. Learners examine the challenges of operating in contested and congested environments, the importance of interoperability, resilience, and agility, and the need for secure, flexible, and scalable communications to support joint and coalition operations. By the end of the course, students are equipped to understand, plan, and optimize SATCOM solutions for current and future defence needs.