LAGER AULENBACH, Germany -- A new telephone-switching system designed specifically for the U.S. Marine Corps is being tested for the first time in a joint and coalition environment at the U.S. European Command-sponsored exercise Combined Endeavor April 27 through May 10.
Marines from Camp Lejeune, N.C., arrived here to apply the capabilities of the Remote Subscriber Access Module (RSAM) in a coalition scenario. More than 1,100 military and civilian personnel from 42 countries are gathered here for opportunities such as this.
“This system was just introduced to the Marine Corps in January and to date it’s been very successful,” said U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Elisandro Patino, a switch technician with the 8th Communications Battalion. “It has yet to be applied to a situation where we have to communicate with foreign systems. Combined Endeavor affords us that opportunity.”
The RSAM is more compact and efficient, allowing multi-functions and improved compatability regarding telephone-switching technology. “Because the system was designed and specially ordered to meet the needs of the U.S. Marine Corps, there is no other system like it,” said U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Isaac Holliday, another switch technician with the 8th Communications Battalion.
“The RSAM allows us to combine several systems into one, replacing older, tactical gear with a lighter, more reliable and overall easier system,” Patino said. The bulk is noticeably diminished, allowing this unit to be more readily deployed on a global scale. The modern scope of the module also cuts down on internal and external components normally used for the same functions.
The RSAM comprises technology currently being used on the commercial market, allowing for more compatibility. This can be a crucial factor during critical communications.“Our deployed Marines are using this today to call home and speak to their families,” Patino explained. “A commander in the Pentagon can pick up a phone and call directly to a lieutenant or staff noncommissioned officer on the front lines.”
Compatability, reliability, efficiency and mobility are all noted improvements over the equipment they previously used. The system’s lightweight, modern internal and external components allow for faster, easier repairs and training. “It’s really simple to use and is great to have when teaching young Marines. It’s much less complicated,” Patino said.
Though the team has faced minor setbacks with power conversion and power compatability, the overall hopes for the exercise are high. “That’s why we’re here: to find these kinks now so when it matters, the mission is not impeded,” said U.S. Marine Corps Master Sgt. Kenneth Moore, a technical controller with the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force G6. “What we learn here will help our guys down the road when involved with future combined endeavors. These tests will be documented and the results will be shared and applied to the rest of the USMC.”