2/1 STB evaluates the TCN system during Network Integration Evaluation 14.1

24th Theater Public Affairs Support Element
Story by Staff Sgt. Kulani Lakanaria

Date: 10.29.2013
Posted: 11.03.2013 19:00
News ID: 116215

FORT BLISS, Texas – Soldiers of Bravo Company, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 1st Armored Division, are evaluating a plethora of new equipment for the Brigade Modernization Command during the Network Integration Evaluation 14.1. The equipment being evaluated is an upgraded version of the tactical communications node or TCN.

“The tactical communications node is important because it gives our brigade commander on-the-move communication capabilities,” said Sgt. Lindsay Szopinski, a tactical communications team chief in Bravo Company, 2/1 STB. “The TCN also can provide stationary capabilities.”

The TCN system is designed to provide a satellite and terrestrial communication network. Additionally, the service allows soldiers to send and receive information in a tactical environment. The system also can provide a mobile, flexible, dynamic tactical network capable of support for a highly dispersed force over an isolated area.

“The system includes a satellite terminal transportable, network to network central waveform, division multiple access and line of sight communications,” Szopinski said. “The line of sight communications can reach 32 kilometers.”

The TCN can work like an internet access point in an austere environment.

“I think it is also a morale booster,” said Spc. Ricky Anggana, a satellite communications system operator in Bravo Company, 2/1 STB. “The system can get voice and data including social media sites. It is also important to keep soldiers connected with family. Normally we don’t get to work with this system. I can’t wait to see how it preforms during the rest of the [Network Integration Evaluation 14.1].”

The TCN system is fully mobile. It can be set up, broken down and moved to a new area rapidly.

“The TCN network enhances signal capabilities on a new battlefield,” Szopinski explained. “It’s important because it provides ungrounded communications. To sum it up it’s [internet] and communications on the go.”