Software Framework for Mobile Ad Hoc Data Communications Using Voice- Centric Tactical Radios

摘要

Currently, small ground units such as those operating in Iraq have very limited data communication capabilities between soldiers. Tactical chat or file transfer is available only at the battalion level or higher. To address this problem, the authors have developed a software application, which can leverage existing voice-centric radios to provide data services including tactical chat and file transfer capabilities to frontline ground units. The software embodies two key innovations: (1) a data link protocol to allow radios to form wireless LANs, and (2) an operation-aware ad hoc routing protocol to support reliable and resource-efficient multi-hop message relays. This paper describes the design, implementation, and functional testing of these two protocols.