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Secure Internet Protocol Router/Non-Secure Internet Protocol Router (SIPR/NIPR) Access Point
SNAP


Secure Internet Protocol Router/Non-Secure Internet Protocol Router (SIPR/NIPR) Access Point (SNAP) ground satellite terminals augment tactical network transport capabilities to extend network access to company, platoon and team-level units at the tactical edge of the battlefield. These non-program-of-record commercial-off-the-shelf Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) ground satellite terminals provide secure access to the tactical network (classified, unclassified and coalition), enabling mission command, data exchange (voice, video and data) at the tactical edge.  

The Army continues to use SNAPs for a variety of missions, including use by National Guard units for disaster response efforts on the homeland. Current modernization efforts are focused on virtualizing baseband equipment.   

SNAP deploys in transit cases for easy transport in the back of High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles or helicopters, and its modular design allows for varying dish and antenna sizes to appropriately satisfy mission requirements. 

PM Tactical Network has been leveraging SNAP ground satellite terminals as a bridging capability since 2015 until Transportable Tactical Command Communications, or T2C2, can be fully fielded. Once units receive T2C2, PdL CSTP is responsible for de-fielding the units’ SNAPs. The PdL then refurbishes the terminals for use in other missions. It is estimated there will still be hundreds SNAPs remaining in the field or in the depot after the T2C2 is fully fielded.  

Capabilities

  • Provides robust, long-range, beyond-line-of-sight SIPR, NIPR and Coalition network communications capability down to the tactical company, platoon or team  
  • Interoperable with the Army’s at-the-halt and on-the-move tactical network transport equipment  
  • Transit case design enables easy transport in the back of High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles or helicopters 
  • Modular design allows for varying dish and antenna sizes to appropriately satisfy mission requirements 
  • Easy to move around the battlefield, providing an expeditionary element to the force 
  • Certified Ka and X-band capability to take advantage of the Department of Defense’s Wideband Global SATCOM satellites