Executive Summary
The U.S. Coast Guard's VHF-FM National Distress System (NDS), established 20 years prior to this thesis, provides maritime distress coverage and C2 communications. Facing aging equipment and new requirements, the NDS needs recapitalization. This thesis analyzes the system's structure, missions, and operational requirements, proposing a model and implementation schedule for its replacement with modern technology.
Why It Matters
This document is crucial for understanding the historical evolution and recapitalization challenges of critical maritime communication infrastructure, directly impacting search and rescue operations and national security. It provides insights into the lifecycle management of defense-related communication systems and the integration of new technologies.
Key Takeaways
- The U.S. Coast Guard's VHF-FM National Distress System (NDS) was established to provide nationwide maritime distress coverage and C2 communications.
- The NDS equipment is reaching the end of its useful life, necessitating replacement due to age and new operational requirements.
- The thesis proposes a model and implementation schedule for recapitalizing the NDS with modern, commercially available technology to meet current and future needs.
- The NDS is vital for Search and Rescue (SAR) and internal Coast Guard command and control (C2) operations.
- The system's recapitalization involves integrating new technologies like Digital Selective Calling (DSC) and improved radio direction finding.
- The document details the Coast Guard's C2 structure and major missions, highlighting the NDS's role in supporting these functions.
Strategic Relevance
The recapitalization of the Coast Guard's National Distress System is strategically important for maintaining effective maritime domain awareness, ensuring rapid response to distress calls, and supporting critical command and control functions across U.S. coastal and inland waterways. This directly impacts national security, maritime safety, and law enforcement capabilities.