___________________________________________

Signal Intelligence
(SIGINT)

A Technology Abstract
and Proposal for Practical Application

_____________________________________________________________________________________

82538 Geretsried - Jeschkenstraße 55c - Telefon: +49-8171- 909540

Telefax: 08171 – 31288 – Email: FKlotz@t-online.de
 Alpha -ES GmbH

Contents

1. System Consulting
2. Study Format
3. Technology Abstract
4. Practical Application
5. System Proposal
5.a. Interception in the Hf Band
5.b. Interception in the VHF/UHF Band
6. Conclusion, Outlook and Quotation of the System Consulting Group (SCG)

ENCLOSURES

1. Transmission Range of Electromagnetic radiation in the different Frequency

Ranges
2.a. Main Receiving Site
2.b. HF-Interception Site and Direction Finding Sites Cooperation Plan
2.c. VHF/UHF -Mobile Intercept Shelter

A l p h a -ES GmbH
Jeschkenstraße 55c Tel.: 49 - 8171- 909540
82538 Geretsried Fax: 49 - 8171 - 31288
Germany
 Alpha -ES GmbH

1. System Consulting
As a result of national and international contacts with the most important manufactures of electronic
warfare(EW) Equippment the independant System Consulting Group (SCG) is in a position to
furnish the customer with e.g.:
-Threat Analysis for the country
- lay-out of the EW-System
- Organization of the EW System
- Training
- Evaluation of the Messages
- After-sales support
- Maintenance
Special attention is paid to the fact that no company-specific products are recommended. The SCG
will cooperate with the customer in selecting the necessary equipment for the supplied system. In this
context, it is important to offer always at least two suppliers for the systems equipment to assure
against delivery
delays and possible export restrictions from certain countries.

2. Study Format
This study presents an abstract of various forms of Signal Intelligence (SIGINT). Advantages and
disadvantages of this intelligence are reviewed in conjunction with a system proposal for practical
application.

A l p h a -ES GmbH
Jeschkenstraße 55c Tel.: 49 - 8171- 909540
82538 Geretsried Fax: 49 - 8171 - 31288
Germany
 Alpha -ES GmbH

3. Technology Abstract
Most major world powers have realized the significance of electronic warfare (EW), both as a threat
and a defence. If by no other means, this awareness is evident in the financial allocations to such
persuits. Active Electronic Countermeasures (ECM), i.e. jamming and deceiving the opposing
systems, are not reviewed in detail in this overview, however it must be recognized that such active
measures are ineffective without the basis of passive Signal Intelligence. In addition, theeffects of
ECM must be taken into consideration for the protection of one´s own Signal Communication.

The passive SIGINT generally is used within one´s own territory, working either from static or
mobile installations; or, in exeptional cases from aircraft or satellites.A distinction is made between
Communication Intelligence (COMINT) against communication links, and Electronic Intelligence
(ELINT) against radar systems.

While COMINT primarily provides information on the contents and the traffic status of various
messages (teletype/computer data, telegraph broadcasts of voice/television or picture
telegraph/facsimile), ELINT offers information on the technical status and structure of radar beams.

As the place of every emitting source can be pinpointed, a special pattern of wireless and radar
locations can be derived.

Limits of signal interception are determined by physical expansion conditions of electromagnetic

waves. Enclosure 1 depicts the average ranges in the different frequency zones. The special
advantage of any electronical reconnaissance is the "noiseless" (passive), thus undetectable, activity.

A l p h a -ES GmbH
Jeschkenstraße 55c Tel.: 49 - 8171- 909540
82538 Geretsried Fax: 49 - 8171 - 31288
Germany
 Alpha -ES GmbH

Principally, every electronic emission can be received within its range. However, now it has become
much more difficult to obtain the message contents because of the technical form of transmission
(i.e., wavemodulation) and of enciphering, which is more frequently applied. Deciphering constitutes
a substantial expenditure, if quick results are required. This level of service can be accomplished
only with a highly trained staff assisted by a sophisticated computer system. It is obvious that, for
economic reasons, such as decoding department should be integrated within a centralized evaluation
facility. Useful information on the activity and the possible intentions of
the users of electronic equipment can be gained without knowledge of the contents of enciphered
messages. Such activities are integral to the operation in such a centralized evaluation departement.

Due to the structure of electronic transmissions in the observerd frequency zones, filtration of data
should commence during the process of signal interception. Frequency zones are used
internationally. Connections over long distances are either carried via telephone cable, radio relay,
satellite radio, or HF-radio. Messages sent by cable are the most easily received in the radio relay
link, due to the combination with radio relay. The interception of satellite radio requires high
technology, and consequently, high cost. HF-radio is used by civilian, military; and in particular, by
diplomatic services (embassies). This popularity is attributable to the wide range, mobility and the
relativly low cost of the HF-radio transmitter and receiver devices. Interception is possible without
technical sophistication. To a lesser extent, "Troposcatters" are used for long distance links. Similar
to the radio relay links,these emissions can be received only proximal to or in the direction of the
radio beam.

Most commonly, VHF and UHF sets are used over shorter ground distances (up to 60 km). Such
sets offer reliable traffic conditions with easy handling and are best applied to voice traffic. The
interception of such links is easily accomplished with modern receivers independent of the employed
set. Interception over larger distances is dependent on the height of the intercept antenna.

A l p h a -ES GmbH
Jeschkenstraße 55c Tel.: 49 - 8171- 909540
82538 Geretsried Fax: 49 - 8171 - 31288
Germany
 Alpha -ES GmbH

The VLF, LF and MF bands are relatively insignificant in relation to Signal Intelligence as they
normally are used for commercial radio sets and, to a lesser degree, to radio relay sets. While the
signals emitted are highly concentrated, these sets transmit only per ground wave up to a few 100
km.

Adequate equipment can yield easy detection of radar positions within broadcast area. Also,
direction finding (DF) antennas and corresponding receivers can easily determine the broadcasting
direction of stations in the HF, VHF and UHF frequency bands, as location is established through
the intersection of DF´s from at least two DF stations. In summary, Signal Intelligence provides
useful information without high risk for personnel. In more limited capacity, Signal Intelligence
indicates the intentions of radio broadcasters and radar installations, either within the country or at
remote locations.

A l p h a -ES GmbH
Jeschkenstraße 55c Tel.: 49 - 8171- 909540
82538 Geretsried Fax: 49 - 8171 - 31288
Germany
 Alpha -ES GmbH

4. Practical Application
Domestic and foreign policy in any government are influenced by both internal and international
situations.
Therefore, early awareness of menacing developements is vital to the security of a dependant
population.
Such information gathering remains the task of the government, its diplomatic missions, and the
media (i.e. press, radio, television). In relation to the media, however, its role as an information
source may be limited, due to the potential influence of various commercial and domestic factors.
Covert military and/or civil services constitute yet another important source of information.
But, in order to yield useful results, the various information segments must be compiled into
"Situation Pictures" derived from a computerized data base.
As described in section 3, a broad spectrum of information can be gained through SIGINT. In this
regard, a central control of all intelligence elements has proven effective in assuring the most efficient
and effective use of available personnel and equipement.
Installation or developement of an intelligence organisation mandates more than financial resources.
More important is the need for time: the larger the project, the longer the time frame / delay.

The availability of a highly trained staff represents the third prerequisite to organization integrity, as
an intelligence service must maintain multi-linguistic capabilities and a technical knowledge of
equipment installation, operation, and maintenance (e.g. antennas, receivers, transmitters, computer
systems and software).

A l p h a -ES GmbH
Jeschkenstraße 55c Tel.: 49 - 8171- 909540
82538 Geretsried Fax: 49 - 8171 - 31288
Germany
 Alpha -ES GmbH

5. System Proposal
5a. Interception in the HF Band

HF-radio cnnections between cities and nations exist independant to telephone, teletype connection
or satellite.
Most radio traffic from diplomatic missions and press agencies is carried by teleprinter or telegraph.
Voice communication exists principally on national radio links and the amateur frequency band.

When financial constraints may pose limitations, first priority should be allocated to developement
and maintenance of a central intercept site near the capital.It is useful to combine this installation with
a central analysis facility. A Direction Finder (DF) station with an adcock antenna for DF (band-
width from 7 to 30 MHz) should be incorporated in the central intercept site.

In many cases, determination of the direction of the radio station is sufficient, as the radio traffic
provides further clues as to the nature and location of the station. With greater financial resources
additional remotely controlled DFs can be added to the basic DF setup.
Locations can be established readily across the basis direction, provided there is a station separation
of at least 400 km.
The intercept site consists of an antenna system and at least 8 workstations, each possessing 4
intercept receivers and capacity for remote control of the DF equipment. All receivers can be
computer-controlled with appropriate software.
Staff activities at the stations are assisted by the computer management of all routine procedures
(e.g. choice of antenna, tuning of receiver-technical checks).

Enclosure 2 consists of a schematic survey.

A l p h a -ES GmbH
Jeschkenstraße 55c Tel.: 49 - 8171- 909540
82538 Geretsried Fax: 49 - 8171 - 31288
Germany
 Alpha -ES GmbH

5.b. Interception in the VHF/UHF Band

Interception in this frequency zone has only a limited range over ground (see part 3). Therefore
mobile receivers and antennas are essential. It is suggested that the sets be built into shelters installed
on commercial trucks; thus, operation can be undertaken either from the vehicles or from the off-
loaded shelters.

Depending on the actual situation, these intercept stations can be transported to the operational
zones.
The intercept station itself involves no more than a shelter and a truck; however, at least 2 to 3
intercept stations must work together as a team.
An additional vehicle is assigned to local preevaluation and a trailer-mounted antenna system (with
generator for power supply) is dedicated to each intercept vehicle/shelter.

The shelters contain 1 or 2 working units, each equipped with two receivers and a DF installation.

In addition, a VHF radio link must exist between the various stations and the pre-evaluation facility.
This link is to be equipped with an automatic enciphering device to assure that opposing SIGINT
will not gain important information from this traffic. Tape recorders must be available to register
voice traffic and / or DATA for analysis.

A schematic survey also is included in enclosure 2.

A l p h a -ES GmbH
Jeschkenstraße 55c Tel.: 49 - 8171- 909540
82538 Geretsried Fax: 49 - 8171 - 31288
Germany
 Alpha -ES GmbH

Whether the VHF/UHF intercept stations also be equipped with management computers remains a
financial consideration. In principle, such equipment is recommended as an adjunct to more efficient
operations and improved working conditions.

6. Conclusions, Outlook, and Quotation of

the System Consulting Group (SCG)
Summarizing, it should again be stressed how important an asset like SIGINT is for any sovereign
state.

The use of SIGNIT yields - without endangering own staff - significant results for any state when
correctly operated.

The System Consulting Group has the necessary know-how to plan suitable systems. In co-
operation with the national and international companies, SCG is also in the position to provide
SIGINT and EW networks to suit the customer´s requirements, i. e. quote for
layout and installation.
It is important that the SCG, in the close co-operation with the customer,
- defines a detailed layout for SIGINT/
EW networks
- compiles suggestions for the most suitable equipment under consideration of
"second source" deliveries,
- establishes a time schedule for the installation of SIGINT/EW networks

Further, SCG is prepared to train SIGINT personnel to certain degree.

A l p h a -ES GmbH
Jeschkenstraße 55c Tel.: 49 - 8171- 909540
82538 Geretsried Fax: 49 - 8171 - 31288
Germany
 Alpha -ES GmbH

Thus, SCG offers assistance and advice for

- definition
- planning
- installation
of SIGINT/EW networks as well as support during the operational phase.

A l p h a -ES GmbH
Jeschkenstraße 55c Tel.: 49 - 8171- 909540
82538 Geretsried Fax: 49 - 8171 - 31288
Germany