Detection of multiple access low-probability-of-intercept networks

Abstract

Increased demands for highly connective, yet covert, communications in the tactical battlefield have fueled the development of so-called multiple access low-probability-of-intercept (MALPI) networks. Although there have been a number of research efforts regarding the design of MALPI networks, detectability analyses are typically carried out for a single network transmitter, rather than for the network at large. In this paper, we present a slightly different approach to analyzing the detectability of a MALPI network. It is assumed that the interceptor knows the basic parameters of the waveforms used (i.e., total bandwidth, number of channels, frequency hop rate, etc.). However, in the network detection scenario, we assume that the detection of any transmission(s) within the network by an unauthorised listener effectively compromises the network. What distinguishes this approach from conventional link intercept analysis is that the detection decision is based on reception of signal energy from multiple sources. Frequency hop code division multiple access (FH-CDMA) is considered.<>