Toward new tactical network modeling and simulation approaches

Tactical network architects are adapting a variety of emerging radio frequency (RF) technologies in new systems designs. While these technologies hold promise for radically improving the capability of tactical communication networks, the modeling and simulation tools and techniques used to support their performance engineering and optimization have not kept pace with the fundamental technologies. Specifically, the use of directional antennae, electronically formed and steered beams, new coding and modulation techniques, spread spectrum approaches, dynamic power control, and multiple-input/multiple-output systems have exposed shortcomings in the modeling and simulation approaches that have classically been used to analyze systems performance in a network environment. This paper describes these analysis requirements, demonstrates potential consequences of applying outdated tools and techniques, and suggests benefits that could be gained by employing innovative approaches