DRDC Atlantic test new wireless network technology

26 Jul 2006

CONVAIR 580

DRDC Atlantic, in collaboration with the Canadian National Research Council (NRC), and IP Unwired, the Ottawa-based manufacturer of the Sub-Net Relay wireless network (SNR), has successfully tested the performance of the new wireless network technology as part of the Networked Underwater Warfare Technology Demonstration Project. This unique demonstration tested SNR communications between a land based and air based station, proving for the first time, that the SNR equipment can maintain a wireless network connection between different platforms under Doppler conditions. This innovative unwired network creates a more automated, effective type of communication by creating an ad hoc network between various platforms (ships, aircraft). In addition to providing application specific connectivity, the wireless network provides email and chat functions, which allows full participation of every platform’s personnel and data for shared situational awareness and problem solving.

The successful trial took place 21 June 2006, north of Ottawa. The NRC provided the CONVAIR 580, an aircraft which travels at speeds of up to 250 knots and is capable of transmitting data using SNR connected from an ARC-210 radio to the ground station. The ground station used a WSC-3 radio connected to the SNR equipment to enable collaboration between nodes.

The success of this trial heralds the future success of upcoming sea trials scheduled for September 2006 and March 2007. The September 2006 engineering trial will establish a network at sea to pass sensor data between multiple platforms, while the third and final demonstration trial in March 2007 will use the at-sea network to pass tactical and sensor information between platforms to improve operational effectiveness.