The new Phoenix E-Model, which replaces the larger footprint D-Model, is being fielded to Expeditionary Signal Battalion-Enhanced (ESB-Es) and other critical formations to provide large division and corps headquarters with agile high-bandwidth network communications. Phoenix terminals provide high capacity, inter- and intra-theater range extension. They are used for high-throughput missions, which include Unmanned Aerial System feeds, video teleconferencing, and large numbers of subscribers and computers on the network.
These versatile transportable, quad-band, satellite terminals enable operational flexibility and multipath diversity, by providing a rapidly deployable capability that can operate over military X/Ka and commercial C/Ku satellite bands. They also support point-to-point, mesh, and hub-spoke networks.
Phoenix E-Model
The new Phoenix E-Model serves as the largest satellite capability for the Army’s new ESB-E formations, in additional to the units’ small and medium ground satellite terminals.
Like the current Phoenix D-Model, the flexible Phoenix E-Model prototype operates on four different satellite bands (military X/Ka and commercial C/Ku-bands), however, its dual-head capability enables the use of two antennas on two different frequency bands, or two different satellites, simultaneously. This reduces manning requirements for equivalent capability, doubles bandwidth throughput, and enhances multipath diversity and resiliency within the tactical network. In addition to operating on traditional Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO) satellites, the Army is assessing the potential to leverage Phoenix E-Model to operate on evolving Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) constellations.
The current Phoenix D-Model is completely vehicle-based, with a permanent vehicle-mounted antenna. Contrarily, the new E-Model is transit case-based, which enables Soldiers to remove the equipment from the vehicle so they can easily deploy and operate the system without the vehicle, increasing the unit’s expeditionary nature, mobility and operational flexibility in support of a variety of missions around the world.
Capabilities
- Operates on four different satellite bands (military X/Ka and commercial C/Ku-bands) for operational flexibility and multipath diversity.
- Supports point-to-point, mesh, and hub-spoke networks.
- Phoenix E-Model dual-head capability enables the use of two antennas on two different frequency bands, or two different satellites, simultaneously. This reduces manning requirements for equivalent capability, doubles bandwidth throughput, and enhances multipath diversity and resiliency within the tactical network.
- Transit case-based capability is easier to deploy; system can operate without the vehicle.
- Potential to leverage Phoenix E-Model to operate on evolving Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) constellations.