Extended MAGTF Operations Aerial Layer Communications Experimentation

Abstract

This research explored current and emerging aerial layer communications, such as balloons or small form factor aerostats (tethered and untethered) and long-endurance UAVs, to provide high-capacity, high-availability communications support in satellitedenied terrain. Through field experiments of leveraging COTS technologies, the study investigated the feasibility of purported aerial layer architectures. The results of the study provided specific filed experiment results concerning options to equip expeditionary forces with reliable Over-the-Horizon, On-the-Move communications to the tactical end user to address capability shortfall between stated priorities of Marine Corps expeditionary strategy and the demonstrated ability to conduct distributed command and control operations.