ATM-SATCOM interoperability testing between NC3A and international partners

The NATO Consultation Command and Control Agency (CCTA) conducted a series of bilateral interoperability tests, experiments and demonstrations of asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) over satellite communication (SATCOM) links, using commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) equipment with international parameters. This paper contains a summary of the experiences and lessons learned during tests between NC3A-The Hague and CELAR in France, DRA in the UK, as well as, earlier tests with USCECOM at Ft. Monmouth in the US. The different hardware and software configurations employed during the tests and demonstrations are examined. The results of experiments and tests are discussed. Emphasis is placed on the results and implications of previous tests involving priority queuing with ATM, as well as, the performance of various ATM signalling protocols. Near-term plans for future ATM-SATCOM interoperability test and demonstration are also discussed.