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RAF signals communications fall into three
categories. First, there is a large complex of HF transmitter and receiver
facilities in the UK, including communications centres with automatic
message routing equipment. Operations include those on behalf of Strike
Command, the Military Air Traffic Organisation, NATO, and the
Meteorological Office.
Second, the RAF Signals Staff operate message relay centres, both
automatic and manual and also manages the RAF's General Purpose Telephone
network. RAF command operating procedures are monitored on all networks to
ensure high standards are achieved and maintained. To reduce risk of
compromise, all RAF communications facilities designed to carry classified
information are checked for communications electrical security by Command
Staff. For the use of the all the armed forces, the MoD has procured a
fixed telecommunications network called Boxer under a Private Finance
Initiative (PFI) contract, which will save the increasing expense of
renting lines from the private sector.
Third, the main operation of the Skynet Satellite Communications System,
which offers overseas formations telegraphed, data and speech
communications, is controlled by RAF Command. RAF Oakhanger is the focal
point of military satellite communications in the UK. Two satellite
communications (Satcom) units are based at Oakhanger, No 1001 Signals Unit
and a NATO Satellite Ground Terminal. From 1998, 3 x Skynet 4 Stage 2
replaced the existing Skynet satellites when they reached the end of their
operational life, and entered service late in 1998. In addition, a
management service for the NATO 4 series of satellites is provided. From
2008, Skynet 5 is expected to enter service and provide the next
generation of flexible and survivable satellite communications services
for military use, and will replace the Skynet 4 constellation at the end
of its predicted life.
Robust military satellite communications services are essential to support
inter and intra-theatre information exchange requirements and ensure that
deployed and mobile forces are not constrained by the need to remain
within the range of terrestrial communications.
AOC Signals has a large engineering design staff of engineers, technicians
and draughtsmen. Manufacturing resources include a general mechanical
engineering and calibration capacity, plus a facility for the systems
design, development and installation of certain airborne signals role
equipment.
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