Using Directional Antenna in UAVs to Enhance Tactical Communications

Military tactical networks exist in a changing and noisy environment. Mobile Ad-Hoc Networks (MANETs) are often used in this environment as they provide the flexibility to accommodate this dynamic behavior. However, by having the military units define the topology of the network, there may be a lack of connectivity or available capacity1 in the network. Smart positioning of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) can ensure that disconnected parts of a network are connected. There are a number of ways that the efficacy of UAVs can be enhanced. Smarter positioning, adaptive modulation, and directional antenna can all be used to create a more robust network. This paper looks at how UAVs interact with a tactical radio network and how directional antennas can be used to get an even greater benefit from the UAVs. Results showing how the UAVs can increase the connectivity and capacity of the network are presented. This work was undertaken as part of DST's Competitive Evaluation Research Agreement (CERA).