A Cross-Layered Communication Architecture for Search and Surveillance Applications of Unmanned Aeronautical Ad-Hoc Networks

A cross-layered communication paradigm for integrating search and surveillance applications of Unmanned Aeronautical Ad-Hoc Networks (UAANETs) is proposed. The idea is to accomplish two conflicting applications of UAANETs simultaneously via a single ad-hoc communication architecture. The proposal supports both searching and tracking missions of UAANETs via a unified cross-layer architecture. In order to avoid excessive complexity and loss of standardization, a modular layering architecture is introduced and cross-layer and strict-layer interactions are clearly defined. The ultimate goal is to satisfy the requirements of different UAANET applications.