Unmanned systems in integrating cross-domain naval fires

Abstract

The ability to communicate and transmit targeting data via the electromagnetic spectrum is crucial to the Navy's ability to fight. However, in recent years, potential adversaries have significantly advanced their electronic warfare capabilities, obtaining an ability to interfere with the Navy's use of the electromagnetic spectrum during operations in contested environments. SEA23 investigates concepts of operation focusing on future potential electromagnetic-spectrum warfighting capabilities in the 2025Ð2030 timeframe. Specifically, we explore these capabilities using modular unmanned and manned platforms capable of carrying communications and data suites to enable cross-domain targeting information in support of tactical offensive operations in a contested, denied, degraded, intermittent, and limited-bandwidth environment. This project focuses on developing a system-of-systems architecture and analyzing alternatives to provide potential solutions while developing the associated concepts of operation. We recommend an architecture based on Link 16 and organic rotary-wing unmanned aerial vehicles to transfer sensor to shooter data in demanding and contested environments.