Transformational IP Services over Transponded SATCOM (TIPSOTS)

TIPSOTS provides a roadmap to transform existing link-based satellite networks into IP-based networks as part of integration into the Global Information Grid (GIG). TIPSOTS provides a Net-Centric operational capabilities using IP-packet switched bandwidth-on-demand based architecture. TIPSOTS architecture defines the various components that makeup the Wideband network and control in addition to developing standards for shared access IP modems for use over existing satellites including the Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS). TIPSOTS Services address capabilities needed for layer 3, the IP-packet layer, as IP-based networks require management above and beyond the capabilities of a layer 2 network. Such requirements, similar to those envisioned by the Transformational Satellite (TSAT) program, include demand assigned multiple access, QoS-based allocation of resources and constellation wide improvements in utilization through integrated network management. Additionally, the Army requires communication on the move (COTM) as part of their vision for "total information dominance".