Network Communications Analysis

Abstract

In a contested environment, especially when conducting forward operations, platforms face a significant electronic warfare threat. The primary threat is from advanced jamming, signal collection, and geolocation techniques that are rapidly evolving to become more capable and agile. DoD advances in smart sensors and weapons demand robust tactical waveforms and networks with greater capacity but lower cost than communication links of today. The Future Autonomous Battlespace Radio Frequency with Integrated Communications (FABRIC) program is developing next-generation communications-layer architecture for tactical networks for operations in anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) threat environments. This architecture will deliver capacity and affordability to enable future smart sensors and smart weapons. The network architecture is flexible enough to support Commander’s Intent in any mission, environment, operating tactical platform, and weapon system under various threat conditions. FABRIC’s efforts focus on developing advanced component technologies, such as Anti-Jam (AJ), Low Probability of Intercept (LPI), Low Probability of Detection (LPD) waveforms; adaptive antenna technologies (transmit/receive/nulling); cyber hardening; and advanced routing to ensure Quality of Service.. Based on the developed thresholds and objectives for the required network architecture, the specific advanced component technologies were prioritized and form the foundation of the FABRIC design. Through simulation and field experimentation, FABRIC is verifying the technology in operationally relevant environments against representative threats, and facilitates the migration and transition of these technologies to service platforms, radios, and other combat mission systems.

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Document Details

Document Type
Project
Publication Date
Oct 01, 2021
Source ID
663_0603662D8Z_3_0400_PB_2021

Tags

Fields of Study

  • Computer science

Readers

  • Military Science and Technology Research and Modernization.
  • Sensor Fusion and Tracking Systems.
  • Tactical Satellite Communications Systems Engineering.

Technology Areas

  • Cyber
  • Microelectronics

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