Family of Beyond Line-of-Sight Terminals

The Family of Beyond Line-of-Sight Terminals (FBLOST) program, managed by the Air Force, focuses on enhancing communication capabilities for nuclear and conventional forces. A key objective is the modernization and integration of AN/USQ-225 systems into existing frameworks, supporting the Nuclear Command, Control, and Communications (NC3) system. This initiative includes the development of the Family of Advanced Beyond Line-of-Sight Terminals (FAB-T) Command Post Terminals (CPT), which are designed to replace legacy Milstar terminals. These new terminals aim to provide Extremely High Frequency (EHF), protected high data rate communication, crucial for strategic platforms and command posts.

In addition to FAB-T CPT, the program includes the Presidential and National Voice Conferencing (PNVC) Integrator project. This project is essential for ensuring secure voice communications for national and strategic users via Advanced EHF (AEHF) and Evolved Strategic SATCOM (ESS) satellite constellations. The PNVC Integrator replaces the Survivable Emergency Conferencing Network (SECN) capability with enhanced anti-jam and survivability features. The program involves collaboration with various agencies, including the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) and National Security Agency (NSA), to develop necessary components like the Baseband Interface Group (BIG) and Multi-Stream Summing Device (MSD III).

For FY 2025, FBLOST's goals include ensuring interoperability of FAB-T CPT terminals with AEHF satellites and delivering airborne terminals to aircraft depots. The program also emphasizes interim contractor support for fielded terminals, operator training, and organic depot activation for long-term sustainment. Concurrently, the PNVC Integrator will continue procuring remaining equipment needed for full deployment while providing support capabilities for fielded units. These efforts are aimed at addressing potential manufacturing challenges and ensuring robust communication infrastructure.

FBLOST represents a strategic investment in maintaining secure communication channels critical to national defense operations. By upgrading existing systems and integrating advanced technologies, the program seeks to enhance command and control capabilities across various Department of Defense platforms. Through continued collaboration with industry partners like Raytheon and government agencies, FBLOST aims to deliver state-of-the-art solutions that meet evolving defense communication needs.