Application of commercial wireless LAN technology to forward area mobile communications

Abstract

Two applications have been identified for wireless local area network (LAN) technology in the forward area of the battlefield: a soldier radio and distributed command posts. The Army's soldier radio/soldier computer initiative is characterized by low to medium data rate requirements (10 kbps or higher), optimization for low cost and light weight, and fully-mobile operation. It utilizes the UHF or low SHF bands, and has a range to 2 km. The distributed command posts application is characterized by high data rate requirements (1 to 10 Mbps), optimization for low probability of intercept (LPI) or detection (LPD), and quasi-mobile operation (rapid setup after a move). It utilizes the EHF band, and has a range to 10 km. The authors survey requirements and architectural alternatives for both applications. The issues which make current commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) technology unsuitable for a tactical environment are examined, and modifications which may be made to COTS equipment to deal with these issues are proposed. These issues include operation on the move, high-loss propagation path, frequency band, security requirements, and interference rejection. Technologies which are common to the two applications are identified. Current COTS technology appears to be a good match to the soldier radio application. Suggestions are made for how COTS technology may be applied to the distributed command post application.<>