Ad Hoc Networks: Headline 2000 Communications Analysis

Abstract : This report examines unit location data and terrain from Headline 2000 to investigate communications networks within the manoeuvre units. Within the Enhanced Combat Force timeframe, such units would be supported by a Tactical Data Distribution Subsystem (TDDS). This is envisaged as an ad hoc network changing its topology as units manouevre across the battlespace. The report describes approaches that can be applied to Headline 2000 and other data to characterise the nature of the network topology, both statically and as it changes over time, in order to explore the impact on the TDDS network capacity and hence to hence to assist in elucidating consequent requirements of a candidate TDDS.