4 minute read
USACE Logistics Activity: Tools of the Trade
from America's Engineers: The People, Programs, and Projects of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers '24-'25
BY AMANDA RAE MORENO
USACE Logistics Activity
In June, the Logistics Activity Operations Division participated in training hosted by Norbert Zimmermann, the Future Operations Branch (FUOPS) logistics planner, on the Broadband Global Area Network (BGAN). This training was crucial for ensuring that team members could operate the device independently and provide remote support to personnel deployed in emergency response scenarios where reliable communication is paramount.
Zimmermann provided insights into the significance of BGAN systems and their application in critical situations.
He explained, “The EXPLORER 700 is a broadband mobile terminal with a detachable antenna, offering high-speed data and voice communication via satellite. It’s as simple as plugging in a phone, fax, laptop, or personal digital assistant (PDA) and pointing the antenna towards the BGAN satellite to get online.”
Key topics covered during the training included device familiarization, usage of its various ports, Bluetooth capability, and the basic operation required to make phone calls once the satellite is accessed.
“With this device, you can make phone calls from anywhere in the world by connecting an analog touch-tone phone,” Zimmermann highlighted, emphasizing its versatility and practicality in emergency scenarios.
BGAN terminals are integral to the Field Force Engineering (FFE) Program and the Forward Engineer Support Teams-Advanced (FEST-A), supplied by the USACE Readiness Operations Center (UROC) in Vicksburg, Mississippi. These devices are vital for setting up base camps for contingency operations outside the continental United States.
“BGANS are crucial pieces of communication gear for our teams,” said Zimmermann. “They can be a lifeline for personnel during emergent situations, providing crucial communications when other systems are unavailable.”
Performing in extreme environments is exactly what the system is made for.
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“The EXPLORER 700, for instance, can withstand a 0.5-meter drop on concrete and operates under extreme temperatures ranging from -25°C to +55°C,” said Zimmermann. “It’s built to perform when you need it most, which usually isn’t ideal conditions.”
While Zimmermann does not have personal experience deploying BGAN systems in emergency situations, he mentioned that FEST-A Teams use them in connection with Automated Aerial Reconnaissance Kits (AARK) for overseas deployments.
“A team can quickly set up the device and have it operational in 10-15 minutes for internet and phone calls,” he explained, showcasing the efficiency of these systems. “When every minute counts, this can mean the difference between life and death during an emergency.”
Logistically, the EXPLORER 700’s dual voltage capability allows it to be used almost anywhere in the world, except in extreme temperatures. During the training, for instance, the device was used in extreme summer heat and direct sunlight.
Zimmermann also elaborated on how BGAN integrates with other communication technologies, such as AARKs used by FEST-A Teams for aerial and ground route reconnaissance.
While the system has not been deployed during any recent emergency or disaster response efforts, the Operations Division takes comfort knowing that the tool is available to them if ever needed. Zimmermann is confident of its potential.
“During a communication outage in a disaster, it will make a huge impact,” he said. “We have seen plenty of situations where a disaster strikes, and traditional communication channels fail. We have been able to use local organizations’ versions of this type of system, but knowing that we have our own system to use if we ever needed to gives us confidence in our ability to continue providing logistical support following a disaster.”
He believes that the satellite communication system significantly enhances the overall effectiveness of the emergency response mission.
“It can serve as a one-stop communication shop for small teams like the Logistics Plans and Response Team (LPRT), Logistics Support Team (LST), and FEST-A,” he said.
Regular training is crucial to ensure the system is always ready for deployment.
“Practice makes personnel proficient in operating and ready to use when the need arises,” Zimmermann explained. “One of the challenges faced during training is finding an open area to position the satellite for a clear line of sight, as buildings can obstruct the connection. The personnel trained on this device will know to take that into consideration when setting up the system.” AE
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