Towards Intelligent Tactical Ad-hoc Networks (TITAN)

Abstract

The recent developments in robotics and drone technology, together with the upcoming ultra-fast transmission technologies (e.g., in the mmWave frequency bands) and the self-adaptation capabilities supported by the latest advancements in machine learning algorithms, are opening exciting new possibilities for the deployment and management of tactical ad hoc and sensor networks. Instead of deploying a grid of static and pre-configured sensors to monitor a certain area, it may be possible to employ fleets of mobile sensors that provide the same service in a highly dynamic and cooperative manner, autonomously and/or interactively adapting their behavior in reaction to changes in the environmental conditions, or variations in the mission objectives. The advantages of such a vision are multifold: mobile nodes (such as aerial drones, terrestrial robots or autonomous vehicles) do not need to be placed beforehand and can provide a far more flexible and robust service if properly coordinated. According to the above vision, we propose TITAN, a new Intelligent Tactical Ad-hoc Networking concept with the potential to create a completely new type of ad hoc network, which can accomplish a wide set of goals and reconfigure itself to provide service even in hostile and/or harsh environments. Designing the network with dynamic reconfiguration and node mobility in mind gives it an extreme flexibility in the face of shifting goals and conditions, making it uniquely suitable to deal with unexpected scenarios.

Document Details

Document Type
DoD Grant Award
Publication Date
Apr 22, 2019
Source ID
W911NF1910232

Entities

People

  • Michele Zorzi

Organizations

  • Army Contracting Command
  • United States Army
  • University of Padua

Tags

Fields of Study

  • Computer science

Readers

  • Agent-Based Social Robotics and Mobile-Assisted Learning in Virtual Environments.
  • Maritime Combat Support and Expeditionary Logistics.
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • AI & ML
  • AI & ML - Autonomous Systems
  • AI & ML - DoD AI Strategy
  • Autonomy
  • Autonomy - Autonomous System Control