Properties of Mobile Tactical Radio Networks on VHF Bands

This work extends a network model that was developed for the study of mobile tactical scenarios employing VHF combat radios. The model uses VHF radio signal measurement data, integrating practical network deployment scenarios and node mobility models to evaluate network link probabilities, and to derive fundamental network properties including the average network node degree, network connectivity strength, network path hop count distribution and dynamics of network link updates. The results illustrate important network characteristics and provide insights for assessing applicability and optimization of network protocols for tactical radios operating in the VHF band. Mobile Tactical Networks (MTN) that use tactical radios operating in the VHF military bands [4-5] offer the potential for improved coverage and scalability through self-forming multi-hop capabilities. The MTN aims to deliver realtime integrated voice and data across command posts, vehicles and dismounted soldiers to provide enhanced C2 and situational awareness in the military operational theatre