High data rate ultraviolet communication systems for the tactical battlefield

The critical need for secure, jamproof, high data rate communication links for tactical battle management can be met by developing short range (one mile), nonline-of-sight (NLOS), high data rate (1.2 Mbits/s) systems based on scattered ultraviolet (UV) radiation. TITAN's ultraviolet local area network (ULAN) concept represents a significant advance in high data rate, NLOS, covert communications at short ranges. Past efforts in UV atmospheric scattering communication systems used directly switched omnidirectional flashlamps which resulted in limited range and data rates. Unlike these earlier systems, ULAN will be based on modulating a collimated, continuously emitting lamp with a high speed electro-optical switch. High data rates can thus be achieved by eliminating the need to directly switch an isotropically radiating UV flashlamp. Directional and over-the-horizon systems employing collimated UV sources will enable longer ranges than previous UV systems. UV communication systems can be integrated with existing military communications either as the primary transmitter/receiver or as an internode link between local packet radio networks. The data rates available over a UV link far exceed those traditionally associated with packet radio.<
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