The application of packet switching techniques to combat net radio

Abstract

The narrow-band Packet Radio system which is the subject of this paper is a highly flexible and survivable data communications system for the Forward Area tactical environment achieved by applying packet switching techniques to Army Combat Net Radio. The User requirements driving this development are outlined. It is important that this system is not viewed as being in competition with other Packet Radio systems, but as one system or building block in an integrated electronic battlefield, hence the emphasis on internetworking. Important design considerations such as survivabifity and the abifity to operate with random network topologies are discussed. A detailed description of the algorithms for Channel Access, Routing, and Network Control which were developed using finite-state-machine simulation techniques is then given followed by a summary of the simulator performance predictions for various scenarios. Packet Radio is a synergism of signal processing and communications protocols implemented on real-time systems. The signal processing requirements and architecture adopted for signaling in the VHF environment are described in the context of the hardware for a prototype network. Early experience resulting from trials and demonstrations with this network are used to point to refinements in the next iteration of system design.