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Communications

The primary means of communicating between ships and stations is known as telecommunications. Telecommunications refers to communications over a distance and includes the transmission and reception of intelligence by wire, radio, and other electromagnetic systems and equipment. The naval communications system consists of strategic group and tactical groups. Strategic communications are generally worldwide and operated on a common user (Navy, Army, DOD, etc.) or special-purpose basis. A strategic system may be limited to a specified area or specific type of traffic, but its configuration is designed to permit combined operations with other strategic systems. An example is the automatic voice network and automatic digital network. Tactical communications are usually limited to a specific area of operations and are used to direct or report the movement of forces. Tactical networks may be used for operational and/or administrative traffic, e.g., task group and broadcast networks.

The Naval Computer Telecommunications System [NCTS] provides, operates, and maintains US Navy shore communications and non-tactical information resources and those elements of the Defense Information System assigned to the US Navy. NCTS is a worldwide network of voice and data communications systems that support U.S. Navy surface, submarine, aviation, and special force users at all levels. Commander, Naval Computer and Telecommunications Command (COMNAVTELCOM) reports directly to the CNO as type commander for all NCTS activities and is responsible for their administration, maintenance, and readiness.

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http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ship/weaps/comm.htm
Maintained by Robert Sherman
Originally created by John Pike
Updated Saturday, December 12, 1998 7:17:49 AM