Architectural patterns for self-organizing systems-of-systems

Abstract. Contemporary threats exhibit unique characteristics that challenge classical security systems. In response to these threats, the DoD has an increased focus on applying proven SE techniques to SoS, which provide more functionality and performance than the sum of the constituent systems. Tools and techniques are necessary to facilitate evolution of today’s systems. One major need is the ability to develop agile SoS architectures that respond to contemporary threats. This paper focuses on one characteristic of contemporary threats, self-organization. Different SoS are reviewed for the driving forces that support their self-organizing architecture. Necessary characteristics are identified and general constructs are put forward as candidate architectural patterns. These candidate patterns are now available for evaluation and employment consideration. They can be applied when problems common to the pattern manifest in new environments. They also add to the body of knowledge for SoS SE