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C4 architecture employed at the Brigade level and above, requires
multiple links between distributed and remote command posts,
integrated into the brigade's C4 network. Past systems required
vertical integration of every branch, by parallel communications links
resulting in complex, costly and unreliable networking solutions.
Current systems are integrated over a common mesh network
infrastructure, sharing a common grid, and Geographic Information
Database (GIS).
It is implemented by the use of standard IP based
communications over broadband wireless datalinks, including ATM or
WiMAX wireless networks, providing rates of 54 Mbps over an area of 50
km. To sustain the bandwidth and connectivity to
higher echelons, broadband wireless links and satellite are required.
Connectivity with the lower echelon (battalion, recce etc) is provided
with high capacity data radios, sustaining around 0.5 Mbps data rates.
Other services are networking the elements of the command post. These
utilize various types of wireless LANs, particularly
WiFi (802.11)
systems. This technology enables CPs to be distributed over a larger
area, without characteristic signatures of tents or shelter complexes
that could be easily detected from the air or from space. Protection
of wireless networks, particularly COTS based, require special
security measures, securing the data and the communications channel
itself. In addition, protection measures for the network itself are
required, particularly against penetration, exploitation, service
denial and other types of attacks, carried out by
computer worms, Trojan Horses and
malicious code attacks. Future networks, under development today,
will feature advanced and flexible Mobile Area Networks (MANET)
offering self-forming,
self-healing ad-hoc networks. Among the programs currently
evaluated in the USA are MOSAIC,
MIMO and others.
Internet Protocol (IP) based connectivity enables seamless integration of information from
different sources, where needed, resulting in a more economical use of
available assets. Contemporary command and control networks implement
common reporting protocols, collecting and preparing tactical
situation reports automatically dispatched by tactical formations from
the lowest echelons. Such automatic reports include locations and
status of available supplies, ammunition levels in each vehicle,
system's health status, etc. Reports are provided with time stamps and
position data, to automatically generated situational pictures, and
synchronized by time and space at the brigade level. The processing of
this data can indicate important trends, predictions and timelines or
spatial data presentations which are not readily available with
current reporting systems. Logistical status reports can be formatted
and generated manually, or automatically, using RFID inventory
tracking technology.
Other topics covered in this feature are:
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