Suggestions for Deployments

[11BLRSD]

Having training on the SDN-m and the SDN-LVx with the sec-net will save you tons of time and many late nights for the Cpt staring at you wondering why he can't send his sitrep to the SOTF. Networking and programming routers and switches is a much needed skill. The 18E mos has turned more towards the internet than radios, at least here in Afghanistan.

Some people here use PDA-184/Viasat but the USMC use's HPW with Harris radios. I can't send data with the PSC-5.

Learning how the RG-33 comms package how it works and trouble shooting.

Placing the CF-19 with Falcon view with gps on the ATV's.

Training on Google earth and Falcon view will be a huge asset to the team.

Learn how to use the FBCB2 and MTX's for battle space tracking.

If you could learn the 3Di system and the KG -250.

A understanding of all the different types of phone lines that you can reach with the system that you have.

Mirc chat is awesome to know because it keeps traffic over the radio down and it is clear comms and you can be reached easy without radio chatter or phone calls.

HF is out the window here, all data is over the internet.

Check out Polycom for VTC's, you will have one at least every week. Understand dialing in and gateways. You will never get the right information until 10 mins before the VTC is scheduled.

Jammers in the RG-33 can cause problems with satcom and FM but you will figure out the freq.’s that work with jammers on. Satcom send stuff in the blind or over blue force tracker.

These are just some things that I have experienced here in the first month. Take care and be safe.