The Belle Fourche Electronic Scoring Site (ESS) Range Infrastructure Upgrade project used a 4.5 GHz Cambium Networks (JF-12 certified) solution to enable Non-Classified Internet Protocol Router Network (NIPRNET) connectivity between the Main Site and 11 remote Mini-MUTES locations in Montana, South Dakota and Wyoming. The microwave network included installing 11 towers ranging from 70’ up to 125’ in height along with concrete footings to support the towers. The project also included replacing a 250’ tower and installing a Government-furnished radio and antenna. This work was performed in less than favorable, winter conditions. The project was located on the Powder River Training Complex, which offers training for B-1B and B-52 aircraft with electronic scoring of training missions over an area that includes sections of Northwest South Dakota, Wyoming, Montana and North Dakota.
PSI provided program and construction management services for this project. We had a construction foreman onsite throughout the construction phase, and our logistics technician managed people and materials to support the field crews.
PSI teamed with C4 Engineering & Integration (C4) for this project. C4, a Native-owned company, provides network engineering services and construction crews. PSI finished the project after successful testing of the system, but continued to provide maintenance services, including adjustments to towers and full inspections.
