Extending the Tactical Wireless Internet in Support of USMC Distributed Operations

This thesis will research, examine, and propose a Tactical Wireless Network Infrastructure Concept of Operations in Support of Distributed Operations. Research and analysis will include the capabilities and performance characteristics of the 802.16 equipment currently implemented as part of the Marine Corps Tactical Command and Control Architecture in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Current Distributed Operations doctrinal capabilities will be compared to a proposed Concept of Operations that incorporates the most current state of the art wireless technologies to maximize both capability and interoperability. The method for evaluation will incorporate COTS products and Marine Corps tactical communications devices installed and operated in both a laboratory setting as well as a tactical field environment. Key performance metrics captured include equipment throughput capacity, communications bandwidth, range and distance limitations, power consumption, communications security, and transmission security. Additional metrics evaluated include level of equipment operational complexity and degree of interoperability with current USMC command and control architecture.