Inter-network interoperability for heterogeneous networks at the tactical edge

Combining several mobile networks in order to build a federated network at the tactical edge is a challenge because of the high degree of mobility and limited data capacity available in these networks. Providing the different partners in a coalition with direct connectivity at the tactical edge can be beneficial since it allows for better cooperation between capabilities from multiple nations and shortens reaction times compared to traditional hierarchical communication models. This paper describes an experiment performed at the Coalition Warrior Interoperability eXercise (CWIX) 2019 with a Depth First Search (DFS) routing protocol that can be used as an inter-network routing protocol to build a federated network. Norway, the Netherlands and Germany participated in proof of concept tests of the routing protocol that showed that the protocol was functionally able to provide connectivity in all the selected use-cases. The results of the tests will be input to discussions regarding future spirals for the Federated Mission Networking (FMN) specifications.