BAE Systems to test next-generation wireless tactical networks

baesystemsogo.gifBAE Systems will field-test a suite of next-generation wireless tactical network protocols designed to improve communications within and among forward-deployed military units. The US Defense Advanced Projects Research Agency (DARPA) selected the company to develop and evaluate new "protocol stacks" (sets of network protocol layers that work together) for military mobile ad-hoc networks, or MANETs.

In the first phase of the DARPA Control-Based Mobile Ad-Hoc Network programme, a BAE Systems-led team developed a new protocol that improves network performance by a factor of five over current practices. The $5 million award for the programme's second phase will further develop and field-test these protocols.

In a MANET, each network node operates not only as an end-system, but also as a router capable of forwarding traffic and forming a network free of any fixed infrastructure. Traditional networking approaches have adapted poorly to rapid in-the field network changes, achieving only a fraction of the potential performance. The MANET's flexibility makes it an attractive networking option for tactical operations.

BAE Systems will work with its programme teammates, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and CenGen Inc, to develop the next-generation protocols and demonstrate their utility in support of special operations applications. Spring 2009 field demonstrations are planned at Fort A.P. Hill in Virginia.

"This technology can allow forward-deployed mobile units to stay networked to each other and to command posts, despite connectivity variations due to terrain and other factors," said Dr. Nils R. Sandell, Jr, vice president of advanced information technologies for BAE Systems.

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