Emergency Communications Via HF

Abstract

The Coast Guard�s reliance on satellite-based communication for beyond line-of-sight (BLOS) operations is vulnerable to anti-satellite weaponry. This project addresses this vulnerability by developing an alternate digital communication system using High Frequency (HF) radio, which bounces signals off the ionosphere. A "proof of concept" system successfully demonstrated the transmission and reception of a 30 kb image. Future development includes scaling with advanced equipment, robust modulation, error correction, and encryption to establish a viable contingency communication path independent of satellite infrastructure.