5G as a Potential Replacement For Expeditionary Aviation Command and Control Tactical Fiber Optic Cable
Abstract
Tactical fiber optic cable connects aviation command and control systems to coordinate airspace operations. Tactical fiber impedes unit maneuverability during displacement to alternative battlefield positions in support of operational tempo. The purpose of this thesis is to assess the feasibility of replacing or augmenting tactical fiber with local 5G wireless communications networks for company size units to enhance operational logistics, mobility, and ultimately, lethality. This thesis examines technologies associated with 5G networks and ongoing experimentation compared to how tactical fiber is implemented now. It also explores how 5G networks would be employed in a dynamic operating environment in which effective data transmission must be balanced with allowing users to move quickly. Considerations regarding bandwidth, range, latency, and logistics are analyzed to assess the feasibility to implementing local 5Gwireless communication networks. Sub-6 GHz frequencies provide the capabilities required to replace tactical fiber but will require further development of tactical equipment to effectively implement. Millimeter wave technologies have not sufficiently matured in technical readiness to be ready for fielding. Further research, development and field testing is required to develop secure frameworks for 5G networks, but these capabilities provide a promising alternative to tactical fiber optic cable.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2023
- Accession Number
- AD1213642
Entities
People
- Katherine L. Smith
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School