Maritime channel modeling and simulation for efficient wideband communications between autonomous Unmanned Surface Vehicles

In this work we present an analytical channel model for the optimization of wideband communication systems with specific application to autonomous unmanned vehicles (UV) operating in maritime environments. In particular, we focus on the impact of maritime atmospheric conditions and phenomenon on the transmission of radio frequency signals. The Advanced Propagation Model (APM), developed at the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center San Diego, is used to characterize the transmission channel in terms of evaporation duct induced signal propagation loss. APM uses a hybrid ray-optic and parabolic equations model which allows for the computation of electromagnetic (EM) wave propagation over various sea and/or terrain paths. The signals are then normalized to an APM computed communications threshold communications value, indicating the ability for a UV to communicate or not communicate.