Manned-Unmanned Self-Organizing Bursty Networks with Biological Nodes

Abstract

An elusive (hard to detect and hard to compromise) fast morphing network composed of cooperative manned-unmanned short living nodes and links, could be a significant force multiplier in providing an asymmetric advantage for emerging urban and coastal maritime combat.

During FY16-FY17, sponsored by CRUSER, our research team made initial successful steps in proof of concept experimental studies of short-living projectile-based nodes for multi-domain mesh networking as well as short-living directional links to enable robust elusive littoral mesh networking. Through incremental experimentation, we've explored promising capabilities of integrating short-living nodes with miniature short-living link models to support very temporary connections between nodes of a multi-domain mesh network, enabled by maneuvering UAV formations, small sets of USVs and UGVs, fast patrol boats, and urban area ground units.

Integration of biological aerial and ground nodes, such as falcons in the air and canines on the ground, provides a unique opportunity provides a unique opportunity to expand bursty manned-unmanned mesh networks research into the new level of formation autonomous behavior. In this new line of research we explore feasibility and major constraints for falcons and canines to carry on advanced miniature solutions for bursty links and nodes. We explore the falcons capability to serve as fast moving aerial relays for rapidly stretching the UAV-UGV or/and UAV-USV mesh network into the otherwise denied area, negotiate position and distance with closest UAV-UGV-USV-dismounted operator neighbors, and exercise unstructured autonomous behavior to maintain sensing or attack patterns. Similarly, we explore the capability of canines to maintain "canine nose-UAV/Falcon eye" cooperation in stretching the network to mission area, to enable temporary sensor data bursts collection and transfer, and , certainly their ability enhance UAV-UGV-USV mesh network autonomous behavior.