What is the U.S. military’s secure communications dome?

Satellite imagery suggests that Iran’s attack on Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar likely targeted a geodesic dome.

This geodesic dome, which housed equipment used by American forces for secure communications, was destroyed in the attack.

The U.S. Air Force’s 379th Air Expeditionary Wing, operating from this base, announced in 2016 the installation of this $15 million piece of equipment known as a Modern Enterprise Terminal (MET).

What Is a Radome?

A Radome is a protective enclosure, usually dome-shaped, that houses radar or antenna systems and shields them from environmental elements and other external factors.

It is made of materials that are transparent to radio waves, allowing the radar or antenna inside to function properly while being protected from weather, debris, and possible damage.

Radomes protect radar and antenna systems from severe weather conditions like rain, snow, wind, and ultraviolet radiation.

They also safeguard the equipment from physical damage caused by impacts, debris, and other external threats.

In addition, Radomes can conceal antennas and related electronic components from view, which is useful for both security and aesthetic reasons.

Radomes are used in a wide range of applications, including aviation, maritime operations, satellite communications, weather radar, and military systems.

The U.S. Department of Defense’s Modern Enterprise Terminal (MET)

The Modern Enterprise Terminal (MET) is a U.S. Department of Defense program focused on upgrading and replacing legacy satellite communication terminals used by the U.S. military.

These terminals are crucial for secure voice, video, and data communications for the United States' joint forces around the world. They enable increased data capabilities and facilitate communications with military leadership globally.

This program aims to modernize infrastructure, increase bandwidth, improve connectivity, and reduce costs through shared equipment and a more advanced strategic terminal architecture.

The MET program is a critical component of the Department of Defense’s communications network, supporting high-priority military communications, missile defense systems, and vital reach-back capabilities for combat forces.

The MET program replaces outdated terminals with upgraded systems, enhances data capabilities, and enables communication with newer satellite constellations such as Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS).

The Modern Enterprise Terminal was created to provide secure voice, video, and data communication among U.S. forces operating within the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility. Its advanced anti-jam capabilities are essential for enabling operations and maintaining uninterrupted command communications with Washington.

The first fully U.S.-funded MET terminal for the Air Force outside the country became operational in 2016 at Al Udeid Air Base.

This terminal, which cost $15 million at the time, provides secure communication services—including voice, video, and data—and connects CENTCOM personnel with military leaders across the globe.

Locations of MET installations

Specific locations where MET systems have been installed include:

• Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar
• Fort Meade in Florida
• Camp Arifjan in Kuwait
• Wahiawa Satellite Communications Facility in Hawaii

In essence, the MET modernization program ensures that the U.S. military has access to the most advanced, reliable, and secure satellite communication capabilities needed to meet the demands of modern warfare and global operations.

Expert insights

Vernon Jones, Director of Plans and Programs for the 379th Expeditionary Communications Squadron, said in 2016: “This system also includes anti-jam software and utilizes the latest technology.”

Jones, a retired U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer with over 20 years of service, emphasized the critical importance of fast and secure communications. Having served in three combat zones, he stressed that reliable communications are vital.

He added: “In Iraq, we were relocating from one base to another near Baghdad. Upon arrival, I couldn’t activate or lock onto any satellites to transmit critical information to the logistics personnel arriving after us. Our main terminal had failed, leaving about 5,000 Marines without reliable communication.”

Carlos Alford, commander of the 379th Communications Squadron, stated in 2016: “The goal of this program is to install new communication terminals worldwide so that U.S. forces can benefit from the enhanced data capabilities of their Wideband Global SATCOM constellation.”

Key features and advantages of MET

• Secure communications: One of MET’s primary features is its ability to provide secure channels for voice, video, and data, which are essential for military operations.
• Advanced data capabilities: The program aims to leverage the increased data capabilities offered by modern satellite systems.
• Global coverage: MET terminals have been deployed worldwide to support joint forces operating in various regions.
• Anti-jamming technology: According to the U.S. Air Forces Central Command, MET terminals include anti-jamming technology to ensure communication reliability in contested environments.
• Modular design: MET systems are designed with modularity in mind, allowing for easier maintenance and upgrades.