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 f. Communications. 
 
(1) General. 
 
Observation. The use of inherent forms of land line (LL) capability 
greatly enhanced the effective management of AE operations throughout 
the CENTCOM and EUCOM AORs but was inconsistent in its distribution 
and was frequently unreliable. 
 
Discussion. Varying degrees of LL availability ranged from host 
nation commercial telephones (with/without STU-III capability), KY-68 
secure tactical telephones, nonsecure tactical telephones, theater 
access trunkline/switch system telephones and point to point, 
battery-operated field telephones. Access to one or more of these LL 
resources by deployed AE elements was dependent on location, types of 
systems employed by the supported host service, and ability of the 
element OIC/NCOIC to "sell" their needs against an often prioritized 
list of users desiring a resource in short supply. Even when 
available, frequent disruption of service became familiar due to 
equipment failure, saturated trunk lines, changing switch and 
telephone numbers and/or host communications support units that 
dismantled and repositioned their equipment as the tactical situation 
evolved. If LL was both accessible and functional, it was an 
invaluable aid in clarifying operational information passed by HF 
radio message traffic although OPSEC considerations become 
increasingly critical. The growth of the AE system to over 40 sites, 
each supported by LL systems preferred by their host service, 
effectively precluded any consistent means of cross-communication 
other than HF radio. Organizations that doctrinally depend on LL, 
such as the JMRO and their sub-stations, had significant difficulty 
in establishing any reliable or efficient means of communication with 
their users or other agencies. Joint service operations are 
especially vulnerable to noncompatible LL communications networks. 
 
Recommendation. Ensure that all commands that own deployable assets 
become informed regarding limiting factors associated with dependence 
on LL as a primary means of communications. Consider the 
authorization and procurement of alternate forms of voice and data 
communications a top priority. 
 
(2) Pacer Bounce Radio Equipment. 
 
Observation. Once again, we found that AN URC-119 Pacer Bounce HF 
radios will not suffice as the sole capability for AELTs. Use of 
these radios as the primary communications link for AE operations, 
although predominantly effective, did not consistently produce 
connectivity between the AECC and field elements in a reliable 
manner. 
 
Discussion. The very nature of HF communications dictates that a 
number of variables, many beyond even the most sophisticated users' 
control, can enhance or disrupt their ability 
 
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