Joint Waveform Interoperability System (JOWIS) Common Tactical Data Links For The Force Of 21st Century

JOINT WAVEFORM INTEROPERABILITY SYSTEM (JOWIS) COMMON TACTICAL DATA LINKS FOR THE FORCE OF 21ST CENTURY

BY | Lt Col Vivek Gopal

DISCLAIMER: DATA USED FOR THIS BRIEF IS SOLELY BASED ON OPEN SOURCE ACCESS/ OSINT & CREDIBILITY OF THE INFORMATION PRODUCED IS AS GOOD AS THE CITED SOURCE; BEING VERY FEW IN OPEN DOMAIN OWING TO THE NATURE OF THE TOPIC. THE ABBREVIATION JoWIS IS AN ACRONYM COINED BY THE AUTHOR AS HYPOTHESIS.

(Source: Source:Data Link Solutions – Link 16 TacNet^TMTactical Radio. (2021). Datalinksolutions.net.http://www.datalinksolutions.net/products/tacnet-radio.php)

Abstract –Evolving threats of the modern day battlefield are characterized by swift operations, battlefield transparency & a combat pulse which is an amalgamation of overwhelming force being applied at the point of decision. This has been made possible due to the advances in technology which provides near real-time information to the commanders, shortening the Observe-Orient-Decide-Act or OODA loop & thereby the sensor to shooter kill cycle. This real time information rides over a network of networks linking geographically dispersed entities sharing information over data links, thereby providing situational awareness. These data links need to be shared among the services to ensure the forces act on a Common Operating Picture. Data link networks & the main communication backbone, therefore, need to be interoperable.Carrying a plethora of information, these data links need to have advanced capabilities in terms of the information payload as well as the survivability characteristics in a communication degraded environment. Various nations in the world have developed or are in the process of developing new data links or using the existing ones to achieve jointness of effort. However, despite the number of links in use, interoperability among these remains to be developed – to arrive at a Common Data Link which will enable all assets (weapon platforms) to operate & exchange real-time information. While the US Forces & NATO have been leading in this field, India too has made a start, albeit late. As we inch towards adopting new technology to be fused into warfare, this is the right time to explore the feasibility of a Common Data Link; aJointWaveformInteroperableSystem ofJoWISwhich can form a part of new systems being inducted as well as retain the capability to integrate with legacy systems already in use.

Keywords–Datalink, TDL, Link 11, Link 16, Link 22, JREAP, SIMPLE, NEWN, AFNET, Trigun, IACCS, C4ISR, NCW, NCO, EBO

Introduction

Network-centric by its name is an oxymoron – networks being ‘centre-less’, hence a network; however, the forces are proponents of the Metcalfe’s law. Tactical Data Links or TDLs are inseparable from Network Centric Operations or Warfare (NCO/ NCW); in fact the former serves as the enabler for the latter. The present brief also covers the aspects of NCW & addresses the issues with reference to TDLs & their importance especially in terms of interoperability which is at the core of NCW. To arrive at a Common Operating Picture (COP), there is a need for all the tactical elements to ‘talk to each other’ as it is this shared awareness that brings out the essence of Effect Based Operations or EBO, which is, overwhelming superiority over the adversary. To be able to ‘Strike Before He Thinks’ requires the three services or the triad to leverage this information to an advantage using all means at hand & finally utilize the most optimal package at the point of decision. To tide over the interoperability issues, a Common Data Link across the entire services network called Joint Waveform Interoperability System or JoWIS is proposed.

This brief delves into the aspect of TDLs & how a common data link is inescapable to promote jointness of operations. Technical details have deliberately been left out to limit the scope of this brief. For the readers of interest, detailed analysis of the data links is available as reference to this brief.

Network Centric Operations – Foundation for Jointness

Network Centric Operations (NCO) or Network Centric Warfare (NCW) is a key component of the armed forces based on shared perspective or a common operating picture (COP) arrived at by use of computer & communication networks working in tandem.The Joint Doctrine of the Indian Armed Forces in 2017 as well as the Land Warfare Doctrine later in 2018 both have highlighted the aspects & inescapability of Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Information, Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance (C4I2SR).Three fundamental questions that always arise are – interoperability of the systems of different services, limited bandwidth available & threats posed to the cyber-systems in a growing dependence on networks. However, a dependence on NCW is the key to defence transformation as well as to ensure that we operate from a position of overwhelming advantage, if not asymmetry, in a futuristic hostile situation. With the growing importance of NCO which may also serve as a deterrent, the objectives can be stated as:-

• Self-evolving & self –synchronized system development
• Ability to reach a COP in shorter time frames – reduce reaction time or take a proactive stance
• Tap into a joint or collective knowledge of the situation on ground to enable furtherance of overall aim

Although there are proponents of the theories concerning over-dependence on ‘information’ for warfare, the aim of this brief is not about weighing the benefits of NCW against its disadvantages or vulnerabilities. Here, we are merely trying to understand the ways & means of establishing a nationalized cross-domain information grid within which the assets are networked using a common data link system which is hypothesized as JoWIS. The importance of NCW has also been studied which reflects the shortening of the OODA cycle.

“In traditional military operations, a mission is assigned and planned, forces are generated, and operations are executed to concentrate power on an objective.This is a highly coordinated, “stepped” cycle (see Fig.1 below): periods of relative inaction, during which forces are generated and actions coordinated (the flat part of the step) alternate with periods of action, when combat power is applied (the vertical part). However, if forces were networked to create a near-real-time situational awareness, then we could act continuously along a relatively smooth “combatpower curve.” We would no longer need to pause before deciding on further action; the information and coordination needed would already be there. The shared situation awareness promised by network-centric operations would also permit aflattened decentralized command structure in which decisions could and would be made at the lowest practicable level of command. Combined with self- synchronization, it would permit us to reclaim the “lost combat power”

Fig.1 – Self-synchronization & Speed of Command: Effect of Networked Operations

(Source:http://www.dodccrp.org/files/Smith_EBO.PDF)

History of Data Links

World War II (WW2) veteran & code breaking expert Gordon Welchman can be described as one of the founding fathers of modern-day Tactical Data Links.He was subsequently overshadowed by the fame of colleague Alan Turing. A maths genius Welchman & Turing were both responsible for cracking of the Nazi Enigma code which led to the code-breaking &Allies were able to decipher key German secret messages during the war.

Welchman subsequently moved to America and developed the Joint Tactical Information DistributionSystem (JTIDS) – the military communications TDL system still in use today in theUnited States (US) and with North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) forces. JTIDS supports data communications in air, surface and land using Link 16, a populartactical data link.

The work done by Welchman was so important that Churchill designated it as ‘Ultra-Secret’ & that it should remain classified at all cost. The complex cryptanalysis technique deciphered a plethora of information despite the message string remaining unbroken. This technique is still in use by the NATO forces.

Polish cryptanalysts had also developed ‘Bomba’, an electromechanical device which could find the Enigmasettings used by German operators. The Polish design was further improved upon by Welchman after the machine was smuggled into Britain. Another outstanding invention by Welchman was the ‘Diagonal Board’ which was more powerful than the ‘wheel setting’ used by the Germans to randomly program their Enigma machines.

After obtaining US citizenship in 1962, Welchman joined the MITRE Corporation, working on secureJTIDS communication systems for the US military. He developed the Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) algorithms for frequency hopping and cipherprotection. JTIDS was sponsored by the Air Force Electronic Systems Division (ESD). A bookauthored by Welchman created a furore in which he described the war time activities of code breaking. Welchman died in 1985, however, his work was also published as a paperin 1986.

Understanding a Tactical Data Link

Sharing a common data link is a pre-requisite for all sensors & weapon platforms on the ground, sea or air to be able to share information. Tactical Data Link (TDL) is the means to disseminate processed information from Radars, Electronic Warfare (EW), Identification Friend or Foe (IFF), Sonars and information related to various combat functions between the far-fighting units on a battlefield. TDL exchanges digital information on a near-real-time basis over a common network, with the tactical data updated continuously and automatically by each of the nodes.The information provides the common approach to various systems & operating environments. The information moves on this data link & hence the developed data link should be future-proof; capable of supporting future generation weapon platforms securely. Managing, exploiting & there after extracting & disseminating data over the information layer is what is of prime importance. Various data links that are being used as part of existing tactical communication systems has been listed asAppendix ‘A’to this brief.

While planning to deploy a TDL, it is important to plan & define our space not only in termsof length, height and width, but based on the operating volume which will be a function of the range, area, altitude and time domains.

Range– Depending on what distances are the various employed assets going to operate is crucial. Radio frequency (RF) characteristics are a function of the distance of operation as well as the electro-magnetic & surrounding environment. For line of sight (LOS) communication we may depend on Ultra-high frequencies (UHF) or Very high frequencies (VHF). For non- LOS cases, we may have to rely on waveforms riding on satellite links or airborne/ ground relays.

Area– Range helps us in determining the type of waveform & frequency of operation selection. Area, similarly, helps us determine the architecture that will have to be in place to generate the COP. We might have a single point of reception for air to ground communication. However, when mingled with early warning elements, local intelligence assets (Radars for example), will need a network of relays to disseminate the same information to as many nodes.

Altitude– This factor can be seen as the range function in a vertical orientation. The data link should not suffer due to multi path effects or terrain masking.

Time– This factor is based on the weapon platform being used. Land & naval vessels may operate continuously during day & night. Airborne platforms may only be available for a short duration based on the operations envisaged. How quickly can the information be passed over the links established i.e. the time-sensitive nature is thus also important while deciding the link.

As the number of links with varying characteristics are utilised, planning the operation with as many interfaces also become pertinent. After the factors mentioned above are decided, we can move on to designing the network. This will involve simulation of the various data link capabilities of the platforms being pressed into action. Extensive use of a ‘Link Planning Simulation & Management Tool’is inescapably required to plan the same. It is with this tool that one will be in a position to decide the way information will be received by the platforms, disseminated, collected & collated, limited by the data link capabilities.

Various TDL standards as evolved by NATO forces & comparison of some of the standards are listed asAppendix ‘B’&Appendix ‘C’to this brief respectively.

Data Links Used in Different Nations

The aim behind network-enabled military capabilities is to collect, process & distribute information across several domains & multiple platforms in a Battlefield Internet of Things (IoT). Using TDLs enables the users to cooperate & collaborate using various computing devices & gain a decisive overall advantage over the adversary. There are several interoperability issues that present themselves while implementing a common TDL for use, however, various countries are understanding the significance of being linked to achieve sharing the COP.

The advances made by the countries involve methods to share the data securely without an eavesdropping in real-time with low latency to gain the information advantage in the tactical battle area. Also, there have been doctrinal changes which emphasize how operations are to be conducted leveraging the potential of advanced technologies & to gain from them.

The succeeding pages cover how the various countries have embraced & adapted to using TDLs as part of C4ISR operations to achieve net-centricity.

USA

As covered previously, the US forces started developing & employing TDLs as early as 1950s. Various data links that have been developed to meet a specific requirement include Link 1, Link 4, Link 11, Link 14, Link 16 & the latest Link 22. There are other links too, such as Joint Range Extension Application Protocol or JREAP which extend the capabilities & range of the Link 16/ 22 (Refer Fig. 2). Each link has a typical use case which has been covered as Fig. 3.

“In the Data Links evolution, there are two main generations. The first generation Data Links (Link1, Link4, Link11, Link11B, Link14) was developed on 8-bit computers, in 1950’s and 1960’s, with limited functionality and slow data rates (600 – 2400 bps). The second generation Data Links (Link16, Link22) was developed on 16-bit computers, in the 1970’s and 1980’s, is multifunctional and works at faster data rates (2400bps-1Mbps).”

Fig. 2 – Envisaged Use of TDLs

(Source: TACTICAL DATA LINK – FROM LINK 1 TO LINK 22. (2016).Scientific Bulletin of Naval Academy,19(2).https://doi.org/10.21279/1454-864x-16-i2-046)

Fig. 3 – TDLs – Application Scenarios

‌

Fig. 4 – TDL Architectures

(Source: TACTICAL DATA LINK – FROM LINK 1 TO LINK 22. (2016).Scientific Bulletin of Naval Academy,19(2).https://doi.org/10.21279/1454-864x-16-i2-046)

Covering all the data links will exceed the scope of this brief. However, the important links which operate for joint operations are the ones we should be looking at to promote the development of similar protocols to achieve the aim of jointness.

Link 16or TADIL- J or Tactical Digital Information Link –J– This is a high-capacity datalink, with frequency hopping features and anti – electronic counter-measure capabilities (Anti-ECM). Links 16 uses Joint Tactical Information Distribution System (JTIDS) terminals and Multifunctional Information Distribution System (MIDS). Link 16 has implemented the Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) technique, that provides 128 time slots/second for the various users. The time slots are organized in several functional groups of network users.

Unlike Link1 and Link 11, Link 16 uses encrypted high-capacity datalink, with a mesh network, and provides electronic protection measures for fully-operational communications in combat situations (air, terrestrial, sea). Enhanced communication capabilities are provided by Link 16 & assists in the real time tactical information exchange. The salient features include nodelessness, anti-ECM, increased throughput, small form factors for use in aerial platforms, secure voice & precise position indication. Utilising LOS principle the various Link 11 terminals are the JTIDS (1^stand 2^ndgeneration equipment), Multifunction Information Distribution System (MIDS) Low volume terminals (LVT) series 1 to 11 for various platforms & MIDS JTRS which is the Joint Tactical Radio System. A point to note here is that while Link 16 refers to the whole network, JTIDS is the communication component of the network.

Link 22– With features similar to Link 11, this TDL enables BLOS (Beyond Line of Sight) communication capabilities, so in the HF band Link 22 is able to provide communications up to 300 nautical miles. Link 22 scores over other systems in being operable even in inclement weather conditions by working at a lower data rate. Redundancy is built-in – if a specific unit fails, the whole network is not affected because of the distributed protocols usage. The protocol stack of Link 22 & a comparison with Link 16 is shown below as Fig. 5 & a comparison between Link 11 & Link 22 shown at Fig 6.

Fig. 5 – Protocol Stack for Link 22

(Source: TACTICAL DATA LINK – FROM LINK 1 TO LINK 22. (2016).Scientific Bulletin of Naval Academy,19(2).https://doi.org/10.21279/1454-864x-16-i2-046)

Fig. 6- Comparison Between Link 16 & Link 22

(Source: TACTICAL DATA LINK – FROM LINK 1 TO LINK 22. (2016).Scientific Bulletin of Naval Academy,19(2).https://doi.org/10.21279/1454-864x-16-i2-046

JREAP–Joint Range Extension Application Protocol– Enables tactical data to be transmitted over larger distances. Capabilities include extending the range-limited tactical networks to beyond LOS (BLOS) while reducing their dependence upon relay platforms, reducing the loading on stressed networks, providing backup communications in the event of the loss of the normal link, and providing a connection to a platform that may not be equipped with the specialized communications equipment for that TDL.JREAP software can be integrated into a host system or into a standalone processor. The appropriate interface terminals are required at each end of any JREAP alternate media link. (refer Fig. 7)

Fig. 7 – Implementing JREAP

(Source:TDL Technology Magazine, 2017)

JREAP & Standard Interface for Multiple Platform Link Evaluation or SIMPLE are both used when TDLs are to be linked beyond the normal communication limits. JREAP relies on encapsulation of data with the JREAP wrapper, so BLOS communication can take place with those platforms which are not even equipped with Link 16 equipment. On the other hand, SIMPLE is not used in the operational environment & is used to transmit between geographically dispersed test environments.

China

Not much information is available as OSINT with respect to the data links planned to be used or already in use for the PLA. However, inference can be drawn with respect to the impetus being given to ‘informatization’ as a key player towards force upgradation.

‌Apart from the focus on informatization, the Chinese are working on development of the ‘tactical internet’ which can link various units together.The Chinese are well aware of the various Data links in use by the US forces. They have reiterated the resolve to develop strategic advantage over the adversary by the following tenets: –

• Strengthen strategic planning
• Speed up the construction of networks
• Promote technological innovation
• Promote collaboration between civil & military

Military use of the ‘cloud’ has also been expressed as an area of interest by the Chinese.Needless to say that the Integrated Network & Electronic Warfare INEW roadmap of the Chinese is sure to keep pace with the developments as are taking place with rest of the leading nations, more so, when China is investing heavily in satellites to build a robust all round capability. For system-of-systems integration [tixironghe, 体系融合], the PLA (read Strategic Support Force or SSF) will need not only to integrate these systems together but also seamlessly feed this information into force-wide networks such as the Integrated Command Platform [yitihuazhihuipingtai, 一体化指挥平台] to support both strategic missions and theatre command operations.

Pakistan

Like other modern militaries, the Pakistani armed forces also boast of C4ISR capabilities. The most visible elements of Pakistan’s C4ISR network include the ‘Erieye’ and ‘Karakoram’ Eagle Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) systems. Although the capabilities are shrouded in secrecy, hints & OSINT suggest mention of a national data-link solution.Pakistan’s C4ISR system could be seen as an implementation of core technologies, particularly ISR and communications.

The Pakistani military makes use of multiple data-link protocols. Details in open source are very few, however an estimate based on how the PAF operates can throw some light on to the TDLs architecture The PAF’s primary TDLs are the Link-16 MIDS-LVT(Low Volume Terminal) which it supposedly claims as indigenously developed.(Ref Fig. 8)

The earliest official record of the ‘National Data Link’ occurred in 2010-11 when the indigenous data-link solution was listed by theMinistry of Defence Production (MODP). The system is in operational use on the JF-17. The Link-16 MIDS LVT and NDL are two separate networks, possibly being linked by PAF’s Erieye and ZDK03 AEW&C.

Fi. 8 – MIDS LVT

(Source: HAVELSAN Inc, Turkey)

The availability of the NDL gives the PAF the flexibility to readily network future airborne assets like the medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE) UAVs. The SDRs used to support Pakistan’s indigenous data-links are sourced from overseas from firms such as Harris as well as Rohde and Schawrz.

There are claims of Pakistan having developed its ‘own’ tactical network & is also progressing in the sphere of SATCOM to ensure BLOS communications capability.

Australia

The Australian Defence Force is developing innovative networked sensortechnologies, and testing autonomous vehicles to offset the smallsize of their forces. They are testing network communications that will permit oneoperator to control a formation of unmanned aerial vehicles that can be programmedto peel off independently for surveillance, or to launch an attack.There are interoperability issues also which have been identified by the Australian Defence Forces (ADF)& measures to overcome them.

The ADF plans to use the TULIP system for management of the TDLs – ThroUgh Life Interoperability Planning (TULIP) process. “TULIP is a structured through project life cycle process. It provides a method to plan for interoperability from the start and continuously assess interoperability. National and platform specifications are used to enhance STANAGs/MIL-STDs for all platforms implementing TDLs. TULIP includes: –

• A single TDLs authority

• TDL implementation and testing policies

• Detailed TDLs standards

• Detailed platform specification documents

• Integration development testing and feedback processes

• Interoperability review, analysis, testing and feedback processes

• Supporting tools and configuration management procedures.”

‌France

The French are progressing a concept of “Guerre Infocentre”, or Infocentric Warfare, which emphasizes on the importance of information flows rather than the network itself. The initial program is the Future Air Land Combat Network System, to provide different combat platforms to contribute to cooperative engagement of targets.

Germany

Germany is developing a future soldier system called “Infanterist der Zuknft”, which will introduce new networking methods between combat units and higher command levels. The system includes optical components, soldier-level computing equipment, and a tactical military internet which links voice and data systems.

United Kingdom

The UK has its own Global Information Infrastructure, which is planned as a single, general purpose network, with a specialized security architecture and a family of joint command battlespace management applications. The UK system design will expand to allow multinational forces, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand to also promote collaborative effort to share a common operating picture through Voice Over IP and video teleconferencing.

Status of Tactical Data Links in India

The above quote resonates with the steps taken over the past two decades to develop the capability of NCO in India. With greater focus now on development of niche technologies, Indian forces too, have endeavored in developing system-of-systems which contribute towards fruition of a ‘joint’ effort. NCW lies at the foundation of joint operations. India has understood the gravity of developing NCO or NCW & its utilization across the entire spectrum of conflict. The net-centricity of operations finds mention in the Joint Warfare Doctrine issued in 2017 as well as the Land Warfare Doctrine in 2018.To quote on the aspect of battle space awareness from the Joint Warfare Doctrine for Indian Armed Forces, 2017, listed at page 44,

“32. Reconnaissance and Surveillance of land/maritime/air battle domainswill be conducted utilising a broad spectrum of ground, sea, air and spacebased sensors. Inputs of strategic reconnaissance using aerial platforms andsatellites will also be made available/exploited. Emphasis is to be placed ontimely evaluation and dissemination of intelligence data to the concerned agencies with an intention of shortening the observation to engagement cycle.”

India has to keep pace with the effort being undertaken by some of the leading nations as mentioned earlier, probably ‘at the speed of technology’, if not less.

“[….] in the new strategic environment, Indian forces will be compelled to deter and fight in multiple domains and dif­ferent theaters. Achieving decisive effects on the ground will not always be India’s main effort—and when it is, such effects can increasingly be delivered from other domains, such as with fighter-bomber aircraft, ship-based missiles, or offensive cyber operations.”

Advances have been made by the tri-services in developing networks which aim towards net-centricity. The succeeding paragraphs list out the communication architecture that has evolved over the past decade.

Navy

The Navy rules the roost when it comes to indigenisation of weapon systems. This drive has resulted in approximately 119 combat platforms & various weapon-sensor suites which has made it a force to reckon with. This has been achieved by the ’15-year indigenization plan’ covering the period till 2022. The plan has been shared with the Confederation of Indian Industry to garner maximum participation in collaborative ventures. Similarly, a “Science & Technology Roadmap – 2025’ is also in place, with a singular aim of developing indigenous technology for naval applications.

In 2019, The Defence Acquisition Council or DAC approved the procurement of the Software Defined Radio (SDR) for the Navy. The radio which holds promise for the future & is in the process of in-scaling is the version developed by the Navy (WESSEE – Weapons Electronics System Engineering Establishment), DRDO & BEL (Bengaluru). The Indian Navy which is already using a ‘data-link’ will serve to benefit from this endeavour. The advantages of the SDR primarily include the capability to work with various waveforms & protocols, easy upgradation & most importantly the aspect of interoperability which is the cornerstone for joint operations.

As recent as February 2021, the project sanction order for developing SDRs was given to 18 firms under the revamped Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020 Make –II category.

High capacity wireless networks are going to dominate the digital battlefield. SDR based Mobile Adhoc Networks (MANETs) or going to serve the purpose of Combat Net Radios. Spectrum being scarce, there is a need to squeeze in as many bits of information as the selected waveform permits. These waveforms, available in the upper spectrum of frequency bands identified by the Navy are in the range of (300 to 475+ MHz). Multi-channel modulation will hold the key to make the spectrum resource being shared by a plethora of users at the same time. These waveforms are generally available in the L, S & C bands.

Apart from the Maritime Operation Centres (integrating sea, shore & air assets) established by the Navy, pertinent network related developments in the Navy include the Navy Enterprise Wide Network or NEWN, Link 11 Mod 1 tactical data link used as well as the Trigun system. All of the above apart from the P8I & IL38SD airborne system which is a force multiplier for the Navy. National Command Control Communication Intelligence (NC3IN)Network with Information Analysis & Management Centre or IMACas the hub has also been established at Gurugram.NEWN serves as the secure Navy Unified Domain with a linking of all ships & establishments – it is the information backbone or highway which is currently being exploited. The maritime operation centres are linked with that of coast guard as part of the NC3IN providing maritime domain awareness.

Trigun– The Trigun System, as part of the Maritime Domain Awareness Program, has been designed and developed indigenously by the Centre for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics (CAIR) functioning under the DRDO to enhance battlespace transparency. It has the capability to collect data about the all kinds of civil and military vessel, submarines and aircraft and information being relayed to the information centres or nodes. Analyzed information is there after shared with submarines and aircraft through satellite communication. The system is in its most advanced stage & by 2024, post integration of AI, will help predict the future response to a developing situation.

The fitment of Trigun (AIS-MDA) has enabled the IL 38SDto undertake Network Centric Operations by improving Battle SpaceAwareness and informed decision-making. Automated Identification System or AIS data comparison on-board the aircraft helpssanitize the plot and instantaneous data transmission also updates it at theMaritime Operations Centres (MOC) of the Navy.

Link 11 Mod I– For the Indian Navy – Link II Mod I Communication System, establishes Wide Area Network among Naval units (aircraft, ships, submarines, shore establishments, etc) over radio circuits and satellite communications for exchange of tactical data to achieve a COP.There are aspects of interoperability of data during exercises held with friendly foreign countries (FFCs). Case in point of US Link-16 & the Link 11 Mod I used by us which operate as a different set of protocols. Discussions on these interoperability aspects, keeping in mind the availability of real-time data have also taken place between the US & Indian Navy.Furthermore, The Bharat Electronics Limited or BEL, Bengaluru developed Link 11 Mod I has also been delivered to Boeing as part of the P8I program.

Indian Navy has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) for sharing ocean services data, expertise in operational oceanography which will also feature as part of the information being assessed while planning operations.The use of GSAT-7 satellitetowards NCW by the Navy is also being progressed with its validation carried out during the TROPEX exercise in 2014. The satlink is also based on the Link 11 Mod 1 waveform as discussed earlier.

Airforce

The Airforce had envisaged the development of the Airforce Network (AFNET)& later the integrated Air Command and Control Systems (IACCS) back in 2008. AFNET was made operational in 2010 & in 2019, the first node of the IACCS was declared as operational in Bengaluru.

AFNET– This is a net which encompasses fibre optics, satellites and multiple other means to ensure that all assets are connected in every station and in every base using Internet Protocol (IP) Multi-Protocol Switching Protocol (MPLS) based Network with Optic Fibre Cables (OFC) as backbone. The network is secured with a host of advanced state-of-the-art encryption technologies &is designed for high reliability with redundancy.IAF also has an exclusive entirely Air Force cellular network, which allows pan India coverage, however, being a CDMA based network, the coverage is restricted to near the base only. A material management online system is fully functional & the Aircraft Maintenance ManagementSystem is also being integrated, to cater to platforms from Russia, France, UK and the USA. It will finally take the shape of a single EMMS (Electronic maintenance Management System) developed by WIPRO.

IACCS– The IACCS network rides on the AFNET backbone interlinking all assets including air-defence & EW systems. This makes it possible to control aircraft from almost anywhere within the country. There are reports of the operationalization of the Operational Data Link or ODL which will link the pilot’s cockpit right to the decision making agency or the sensor-shooter kill chain (SSKC) as it is called. ‌Integration with Navy’s Trigun& Army’s Air Defence Control & Reporting (AD C&R) is yet to take place, although it has been planned.(Refer Fig. 9)

Fig. 9 – IACCS

(Source:AIR DEFENCE IS EVERYWHERE. (2020, July 24). Vifindia.org.https://www.vifindia.org/article/2020/july/24/air-defence-is-everywhere)

TheIndian Air Force has already established 5 nodes of the IACCS in the western sector at Barnala (Punjab), Wadsar (Gujarat), Aya Nagar (Delhi), Jodhpur (Rajasthan) and Ambala (Haryana) with assistance from BEL or Bharat Electronics Limited. The 4 new major nodes and 10 new sub-nodes will come up under Phase-II of the IACCS project. While 3 nodes will be deployed in eastern, central and southern India, the fourth is meant for the strategically-located Andaman and Nicobar Islands archipelago in the Bay of Bengal, watching over Malacca Strait.

Army

The Army is not too far behind & along with the capability development of SDRs as mentioned in the Technology Capability & Roadmap 2018, has taken major steps towards linking of the sensor to shooter to develop a functional grid. The heart of the system is the Combat Information Distribution & Dissemination System or CIDSS which is in the process of being interacted with the electronic warfare elements, Air-defence network & a Battlefield Management System.

For the high speed backbone, the Network for Spectrum (NFS) project has progressed, albeit a bit slow & shall reach completion soon. The NFS has been perceived to be a network based on optical fibre links which offers immense bandwidth to support triple-play services of voice, data & video. All major assets of the Army will be interlinked on this network & last mile connectivity is planned based on Army Static Switched Communication Network or ASCON phase IV.

NFS– Network For Spectrum (NFS) has been planned as an Exclusive Optical Fibre based ‘Nationwide Communication Network’ for Defence Services. This will be a Countrywide Secure, Multi service and Multi-protocol Converged Next Generation Network (NGN) based on exclusive and dedicated Tri-services Optical Transport Backbone.

ASCON– ASCONproject will be an upgrade to the existing Asynchronous Transfer Mode Technology to Internet Protocol (IP) / Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) technology, the ministry said. Optical Fibre Cable (OFC), Microwave Radio, and Satellite will be used for communication, it added. In any operational scenario, the project will provide better survivability, responsiveness, and high bandwidth and enhance the communication coverage of network closer to IB/LC/LAC.

The overarching system of the convergence of the networks of the triad is planned as the Defence Communication Network or DCNwhich was dedicated to the services in 2016.

Having seen the effort taken for developing the communication architecture, few lacunae still remain viz., training & validation of the joint communication architecture which lends to present a COP as well as interoperability of the systems among the triad. While we are inching towards a DCN, it is JoWIS as hypothesized which holds greater promise towards a seamless network, integrating the various sensor inputs in the tactical battle area or TBA & delivering the optimal package at the point of impact. How JoWIS aims to be an integral & pivotal part of the envisaged ‘Mosiac Warfareof the future is covered subsequently. Needless to say, that the steps being taken towards achieving a fully functional capable is being noticed by our neighbours too.

How Other Sister Technologies Can Contribute

While we have considered the TDLs used across some foreign nations as well as our own country, it is noteworthy that the future scope in terms of some niche technologies be also brought in this brief. Communication as a domain is extremely dynamic & upwards trend in technology make it an ever-evolving field. Some of the technologies highlighted ahead merit attention as their capabilities can be leveraged for establishing TDLs.

Tactical Cloud

By placing information on the cloud, on-demand access to information will be available to all the platforms. Easier said than done, these technologies for a tactical cloud have been under consideration through the program Joint Information Environment (JIE) of the US Forces for over a decade.Main applicability of this cloud is being seen for intra-communication between aerial platforms. JIE would further migrate to Joint Enterprise Defence Infrastructure (JEDI), and specific (Fit-for-Purpose) clouds in coming times. Issues of cyber-security plague the developmental aspects of a tactical cloud, however, it remains a capability to reckon with in the future.

Pseudo-Satellites

Implementing High Altitude Pseudo-satellites or HAPS systems which help in establishing a MANET for the duration of the operation envisaged (Refer Fig 10). HAPS may also ‌be utilised for NLOS communication.

Fig. 10 – SHARP – Stationary High Altitude Relay Platform

(Source:Aragon-Zavala, A., Luiscuevas-Ruiz, J., & Delgado-Pe. (2008).High-Altitude Platforms for Wireless Communications.John Wiley & Sons.)

Tactical Space Layer

There are also reports of methods being used to fuse data from multiple sensors at multiple altitudes — to include airborne, high altitude and even in space based assets to augment the COP.[xlvi]

‌

Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning (ML)

The use of this technology can only be understated. Avenues of use with respect to use of AIare immense. In the case of TDLs the AI models along with a proper ML engine can help in intelligent spectrum sensing & auto-prioritize the users to send signals or data based on content of the signal message.

These technologies can also be used to make or recommend decisions based on imagery database & suggesting the correct force tocounter the threat.Automating the response of the weapon platforms can also be done using advanced programming based on how well the model or engine is trained as per the datasets available.

Technologies such asQuantum Technology, Private Long Term Evolution (LTE) Networks&HF Communicationcan also be gainfully used to provide robust data links & complement the existing TDLs.

Way Forward for India – Common Tactical Data Link (JoWIS) & Recommendations

Having seen the triad working on developing or partially developed TDLs, it will be prudent incase steps are taken now to address the issue of interoperability within the systems being tested & developed. It is evident that the backbone network seems to be in place for the country. It is the TDLs that need further deliberation. To arrive at a common denominator in this case will need immense effort & surmounting technological challenges as the systems being used will need to have the form factor or Size Weight & Power (SWaP) considerations based on the platform being employed. Also, issue of LOS & BLOS communication with multiple level of encryption is the need.

The software prowess of our nation needs to be tapped alongside the fusion between the academia-military-industry ‘iron triangle’. The Navy has clearly taken a lead in this domain of utilizing TDLs. Balance two services may also like to utilize the similar link qualities & protocol to arrive at a ‘joint’ solution.

Keeping the above in mind, one can list out some of the requirements of JoWIS without getting into the technical details of the exact protocol stack et al.

Hardware Requirements

Software Defined Radios –The sooner we can utilize their potential, the better it is. It is their inherent capabilities to transmit data utilizing various waveforms that makes them the foundation for TDLs.

InterfacingTerminals– Data terminals based on the platform of application need to be tailor-made to meet the SWaP requirements (Ref Fig. 11) of a particular weapon system or static installation. Similar considerations for the antennae will also have to be made.

Communication Backbone– A robust & secure communication backbone which can offer speeds in Gigabits per second is the minimum requirement to have a (near) real-time data flow.

Fig. 11 – Small Form Factor IBM TDL Solution

(Source:IBM Global Services – TDL Solutions)

Information Technology (IT) Infrastructure– The IT infrastructure consisting of switches, multi-data link routers (gateways) & high-speed data processing chips are a pre-requisite for implementing TDLs.

Scalability & Modularity– An important aspect to be kept in mind while developing hardware to make it future-proof.

Software Requirements

Human- Machine Interface or Man Machine Interface (MMI)– Has to be an optimal mix of easy to assimilate & user-friendly dashboards with filters at all levels to prevent a ‘data-tsunami’ at all nodes of operation.

Protocol Development & Communication Technology– Based on the utilization of the RF spectrum (HF/VHF/ UHF) & the waveform chosen, access techniques will have to be designed accordingly. Time Division Multipole Access (TDMA) seems to be the most commonly used scheme so far based on the scarcity of spectrum available obviating use of frequency division architecture. Similarly, protocols will have to be developed, tried &tested before implementation to ensure that all the nodes are able to access the information as intended.

Cyber-Security– As professed by many theorists, the issue plaguing the implementation of NCW lies majorly around cyber-attacks, making the network vulnerable. Encryption algorithms will have to be developed to make the waveforms & data therein un-hackable.

Least Signature in Spectrum– Low Probability of Intercept or LPI signals will be most suited to this requirement, however, a trade-off will have to be considered between the range, power of the signal & jam-resistant properties.

The list above is nowhere exhaustive. Apart from the above, there will be a need to ensure that if a common tactical data link (JoWIS) is what are ultimate aim will be, then the future procurements/ acquisitions/ production should cater to the requirements ab-initio as part of the qualitative requirements specified in Request for Proposal (RFP) documents etc. Methods for backward compatibility or retro-fitment with legacy equipment has to be considered for the risk of not making the existing equipment redundant. One might also like to employ tools such as the Portfolio Theory, Bayesian Analysis or the Monte Carlo Simulations to arrive at logical conclusions while employing JoWIS.

Recommendations

Following recommendations can be suggested for development of JoWIS: –

Recommendation 1. A Program Office for executing the Project JoWIS be set-up with a Joint Oversight Committee (say at HQ Integrated Defence Staff) which will look into the progress made by various cross-functional teams to arrive at developing the JoWIS alongwith implementation in software & hardware.

Recommendation 2.Develop sensor technology which is compatible with the JoWIS envisage d& developed to ensure connectivity when implemented.

Recommendation 3. Implement the fusing of existing networks to include logistics as well as maintenance networks on the same network which can be viewed as a joint picture at the theatre level or later at the National level.

Recommendation 4. More impetus on chip manufacturing. Very small scale integrated circuit design will be of prime importance due to the SWaP considerations.

Recommendation 5. RF Fingerprinting is essential to aid the data links transmit the IFF information. Products being acquired or developed in-house should have this provision during manufacture.

Recommendation 6. Cryptographic advancement is essential to safeguard the implementation & there after implementation of JoWIS. Quantum cryptography, although will make the system complicated than it already is, is the way forward to ensure hack-resistant communication. Similarly, ‘Data at Rest’ encryption is also essential for data centres or main nodes which will be repositories of information.

Recommendation 7. Exhaustive training will be essential while we implement the JoWIS. This is because a new set of protocols will come into force & the operators will need to be fully confident of the system as well as the new procedures which will come into play.

Recommendation 8. Decision will have to be made to develop in-house systems for such a common data link or utilize off-the-shelf hardware & software as available ex-trade.

Recommendation 9. Start investing in High Frequency or HF links as with the remaining in-use spectrum already getting congested, might not be suited to meet the overall requirement.

Gestalt

“The four fundamental requirements (capabilities) for conducting network centric operations are Networked Communications, Information Sharing, Advanced Information Technologies such as Agents and Decision Support Algorithms and Networked Enabled Platforms (vehicles, tanks, ships, aircraft and other weapon systems).[…] The military instrument of Network Centric Warfare will have to be forged on suitably integrated organizations, new technologies, joint concepts and doctrines, and joint training and joint communication architecture. Hence the important issues that the Services need to examine in far greater details are:-

• Jointly evolved communication architecture.
• Joint/Integrated organizations.
• Joint concepts and a joint doctrine to fight future conflicts.
• Induction of new technologies.
• Network enabled platforms (tanks, ships, aircraft etc.)”

NCW revolves around operations in the cognitive domain & later it is the dominance achieved which translates into an advantage for the side poised with an agile network of networks. To achieve this network, the adoption of a tactical data link, seamlessly integrating the triad in inescapable. It is with a robust data network relying on interoperable tactical waveforms that effect based operations can actually fructify with an overwhelming ascendancy over any adversarial challenge. We are graduating from the IoT to the Internet of Intelligence& it is time we graduated from being ‘network –enabled’ to ‘network-centric’ in this disconnected intermittent & limited bandwidth environment.

CERTIFICATE

The paper is author’s individual scholastic articulation. The author certifies that the article is original in content, unpublished and it has not been submitted for publication / web upload elsewhere and that the facts and figures quoted are duly referenced, as needed and are believed to be correct.

Disclaimer: Views expressed are of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of CENJOWS.

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APPENDICES

(All Appendices information attributed to synthesys.co.uk)

Appendix ‘A’

VARIOUS TACTICAL COMMUNICATION SYSTEM DATA LINKS

Appendix B

TACTICAL DATA LINK STANDARDS – NATO FORCES

Appendix C

COMPARISON OF TDLs

CERTIFICATE

The paper is author’s individual scholastic articulation. The author certifies that the article is original in content, unpublished and it has not been submitted for publication / web upload elsewhere and that the facts and figures quoted are duly referenced, as needed and are believed to be correct. The paper does not necessarily represent the views of the CENJOWS.

Disclaimer: Views expressed are of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of CENJOWS.