Military satellite communications (miLsATcom) systems are critical elements in DoD’s vision for a global information grid (gig). modeled after the commercial internet, the gig will provide global connectivity to support a broad range of military user applications. commercial networking technologies, coupled with military-unique radio communications equipment, enable the gig to support the demands of the highly mobile war ghter operating in complex radio environments. miLsATcom is divided into three categories—narrowband, wideband, and protected—matching user require- ments to suitable frequency bands. ApL is active in the development of miLsATcom systems, leveraging more than 20 years of expertise in satellite communications to ensure the global reach of the gig.