Design considerations for a robust aerial communications layer

Satellite systems are traditionally used to provide broad area coverage to regions in which communications infrastructure is nonexistent or unreliable. Recently, there has been an increased desire to provide some of this connectivity by way of an aerial communications layer. One of the primary benefits to the aerial approach is the potential for a significant decrease in the time to field a new capability. As a result, aerial communication nodes, primarily mounted on Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), are being considered for roles from local, low altitude satellites to simple single-hop relays for ground network extension. Aerial nodes have many desirable features that, if properly exploited, can significantly enhance military communications. However, without sufficient architectural analysis and operational realism, they can become expensive or ineffective. In this paper, we discuss the coverage limitations and vulnerability under simple interference scenarios and provide a basis for future efforts to architect an aerial communications layer.