An analysis of MMW wireless LANs for LPI/AJ command post communications

Millimeter-wave (MMW) communications at frequencies near 60 GHz suffer extremely high propagation losses due to absorption by oxygen molecules in the atmosphere. While atmospheric absorption makes the frequency band near 60 GHz unsuitable for long-range communications systems, it does provide some very useful attributes for short-range links including frequency reuse, LPI/AJ features, and small size for mobile communications and command-on-the-move capability. Three hypothetical covert MMW wireless LAN configurations for mobile command post communications are presented and investigated. The performance of each configuration is analyzed in benign and hostile environments while operating in the 54 - 58 GHz frequency band. A MMW LAN is shown to have excellent AJ/LPI performance, especially at higher frequencies (near 58 GHz), and, for some of the options, to provide moderate link ranges, even in rainy conditions. The MMW LAN options presented are also shown to have a variety of other features which are advantageous for a command post, including command-on-the-move, rapid set-up and breakdown of the network, and the ability to disperse the command post far beyond what is possible using cable LANs.<>