Tactical Wireless Communications and Networks: Design Concepts and Challenges

11.2 Challenges Facing Joint Forces Interoperability

Tactical networks are presently divided between the different branches of the US military. The military branches have separate, independent programs. Each has put in a great deal of effort to ensure its own success. However, these different IP-based networks and radios must interoperate seamlessly across the tactical GIG to guarantee the success of joint and coalition missions. The NM architecture, across the tactical GIG, needs to play a role in providing the joint forces with proper interoperability. This requires some level of interoperability between adjacent network managers. The challenges facing joint interoperability are numerous:

• The success of each individual network program does not automatically guarantee the success of the GIG.
• The networks need to work seamlessly to carry information to the warfighter, at the right place and time, with the right quality of service (QoS).
• The NM applications of the different services do not interoperate.
• The R&D facilities for all the services address similar issues, with minimal cross-service leveraging for developmental efficiency and interoperability.
• The development of new military systems does not include requirements or testing of interoperability with other services since there are few joint R&D programs or collaborations that address joint interoperability requirements.
• Interfaces have not been defined for NMs of different networks to pass tactical information to each other. ...