Joint networking command and control (C2) communications among Distributed Operations, JCAS, and Joint Fires

Abstract

This thesis postulates that the implementation of Mobile Ad Hoc Networking (MANET), Mesh and IEEE 802.16 products can support a Distributed Operations (DO) platoon. Ground and Air assets will use MANET, Mesh and IEEE 802.16 products to network a tactically deployed DO platoon through communications of ground and air based components. These ground and air components will link in an IPbased network and demonstrate the real-time exchange of data. This analysis will focus on the integration of traditional airborne assets with those of a DO platoon. By connecting those Sense, Decide, and Act (SDA) facets into a networked based architecture, the thesis experiments demonstrate that emerging commercial off the shelf (COTS) technologies can further advance data exchange between Service Oriented Architectures (SOA) and enhance the ability to provide Joint Close Air Support (JCAS) to DO platoons in an environment where Air Force, Navy, and Army components are available for fire support. This thesis focuses on the integration of ground and air nodes into a networked based architecture using emerging COTS MANET, Mesh, and IEEE 802.16 technologies to further advance data exchange between simulated ground and air units.