Note: This article is an excerpt from my paper “Evolving Warfronts: Next-Generation C2 for Enhanced Special Operations” exploring the development and implications of the SPARTAN system, an advanced Command and Control (C2) framework designed for Special Operations Forces. Integrating open-source robotics with multi-input radio networks, SPARTAN aims to enhance interoperability and real-time decision-making across diverse autonomous platforms.
In modern warfare, the deployment and operational integration of uncrewed autonomous systems (UAS) is becoming a cornerstone of military strategy, particularly within Special Operations Forces (SOF). UAS offer unparalleled capabilities in surveillance, reconnaissance, and effects missions, significantly enhancing operational effectiveness and warfighter safety. However, the command and control (C2) systems responsible for managing these assets are challenged. Existing frameworks often struggle with interoperability issues, limited real-time data processing capabilities, and vulnerabilities in secure communication, undermining the strategic advantage these UAS are being designed to provide.
Effective C2 in the current operational landscape lies in the ability to maintain comprehensive situational awareness (SA) with heterogeneous UAS, execute seamless decision-making with real-time data, and ensure robust communication, even in the most adverse and dynamic environments. As SOF missions grow in complexity and scale, the demand for an advanced C2 system that can meet these requirements continues to increase.
New Technology
There are several key technologies which should influence future C2 architectures. Each of these technologies contributes unique capabilities that, when integrated, will form the backbone of sophisticated, multi-domain C2 systems.
For instance, ROS2 is an open-source framework designed for robotics applications. It facilitates the development and interoperability of software in robotic systems, offering features like hardware abstraction, low-level device control, and message-passing between processes. ROS2 builds on its predecessor by improving security, real-time performance, and supporting cross-platform communication between robots and sensors, essential for autonomous system coordination.
MAVLink is a lightweight messaging protocol for communicating with UAS. It enables high-efficiency, low-latency communication crucial for real-time control and telemetry. MAVLink supports a wide range of operations, from navigation and payload control to mission planning and execution, making it fundamental for aerial command and control dynamics. MAVLink can also ensure that ground vehicles can seamlessly share data, receive commands, and synchronize operations with aerial UAS and command centers, enhancing ground operations’ effectiveness and adaptability.
ATAK is a geospatial information system that provides real-time situational awareness for military, law enforcement, and other tactical operators. The platform offers detailed mapping functionalities, collaborative tools, and secure communication channels, enabling users to visualize and manage complex operational landscapes on handheld devices.
MANET (Mobile Ad hoc NETwork) radios support dynamic, self-forming, and self-healing networks, ideal for operations in challenging environments where conventional communication infrastructure is compromised or unavailable. These radios enable nodes to communicate directly with each other without relying on fixed infrastructure, providing resilient and adaptable communication capabilities for mobile and dispersed forces.
SPARTAN Architecture
It’s with these new technologies in mind in which we should base the next generation C2 architecture. Because the military loves its acronyms, it should be called the Special Operations Forces (SOF) Precise And Reliable Tactical Action Network (SPARTAN) which will be a strategic enabler for SOF, designed to overcome the limitations of current C2 systems by providing a scalable, flexible, and intuitive control framework. The system will significantly expand the operational capabilities of SOF units, allowing them to execute complex missions with unprecedented precision and safety. The development of SPARTAN represents a pivotal step towards realizing the full potential of autonomous systems in enhancing national security and defense capabilities.
Perceived Need
One of the primary challenges facing existing C2 systems is interoperability. It’s clear that drone-based service and product innovation is curtailed by the growing dependence on poorly interoperable proprietary technologies, a trend which must be reversed. These systems were typically developed with platform-specific protocols in mind, which leads to significant challenges when integrating diverse assets. This lack of interoperability complicates the C2 process, making it difficult to coordinate operations across autonomous systems.
Another significant issue is the limited capability for real-time data processing. Dynamic mission adaptation and decision-making require the ability to process and analyze data instantaneously. Current C2 systems frequently lack the necessary computational power and architecture, leading to delays that can impede critical decision-making processes.
Enabling interoperability and real-time decision-making is secure communication. Existing systems often exhibit vulnerabilities that can be exploited through cyber threats and electronic warfare tactics. These vulnerabilities pose risks to mission integrity and operational security, highlighting the need for more secure and reliable communication methods.
In May 2023, the SCSP published a major report identifying key offset technologies needed for future conflict, one of which is democratized and digitized battle C2, which allows uploading and distribution of militarily valuable information by everyone in the battlespace.
The interoperability issues present a clear need for a C2 system that can seamlessly integrate heterogeneous assets. Such a system would facilitate multi-domain operation, enhancing operational flexibility and responsiveness. The challenge of limited real-time data processing also underscores the importance of developing a C2 system capable of handling vast streams of data from multiple sources. Work is already underway by RAND to utilize analytical frameworks for evaluating AI systems pertaining to different C2 processes, highlighting this aspect. This system must support timely and informed decision-making by providing instantaneous data aggregation, processing, and dissemination. Lastly, the vulnerabilities in secure communication emphasize the necessity for a C2 system equipped with state-of-the-art encryption and anti-jamming technologies like advanced encryption standard (AES)-256, frequency hopping spread spectrum (FHSS), low probability of intercept (LPI) and cognitive radio technologies. A system that ensures robust and resilient communication channels, even under adverse conditions, is critical for maintaining operational security and effectiveness.
New Concepts
Recent advancements in military technology offer promising solutions to the limitations of current C2 frameworks, particularly in the areas of unified communication protocols, computational architectures, and network security. In fact, the European-led COMP4DRONES project highlighted these areas as focal points for future research as early as 2020.
Enhanced Interoperability through Unified Protocols
The integration challenge posed by the diverse array of platforms and systems used by SOF can be addressed through the adoption of unified communication and control protocols. A lightweight communication framework supporting MIMO wireless communication transmitting high-level direction and situational awareness, and mechanisms for secure communications will enhance interoperability in future operations.
Technologies such as ROS and MAVLink provide standardized frameworks that facilitate seamless interaction between different types of autonomous systems. These technologies have already been shown to be interoperable, showcasing the application of ROS and MAVLink in overcoming GPS limitations. By adopting these protocols, the proposed C2 system can achieve a high degree of interoperability, enabling coordinated operations across air, land, and sea.
A significant advancement in achieving enhanced interoperability among autonomous systems in military applications is the migration from the first version of ROS to ROS 2. The DoD has initiated this transition through the Modular Autonomy and Robotic Software (MARS) program, emphasizing the need for a common set of robotic capabilities across various platforms. The transition to ROS 2 is critical for equipping the DoD with the necessary tools to integrate robotics over the next decade, ensuring a unified approach to robotic systems development and deployment.
Real-time Data Processing Capabilities
Advancements in computational architectures and algorithms are paving the way for more efficient data handling capabilities. The use of distributed computing and edge processing technologies allows for the rapid aggregation, analysis, and dissemination of data from various sensors and sources. This capability is crucial for supporting dynamic mission adaptation and timely decision-making, ensuring that operators have access to the most current operational picture.
The adoption of ROS 2 for military C2 systems is a move towards addressing the real-time data processing limitations of existing frameworks. ROS 2 is designed with the Data Distribution Service (DDS) as its underlying communication middleware, catering to critical applications such as autonomous driving, healthcare machinery, and military tactical systems. DDS provides a standardized interface for data exchange, ensuring efficient real-time communication and interoperability among distributed systems. This technology is pivotal for SOF C2 systems, enabling rapid data dissemination and processing.
Secure Communication through Advanced Encryption and Mesh Networks
The vulnerabilities in current communication systems can be mitigated through the implementation of advanced encryption technologies and resilient network architectures. The Persistent MPU5 radio system exemplifies the use of mesh networking to create secure, adaptable communication links. Mesh networks offer enhanced reliability and resistance to jamming and interception, providing a robust foundation for secure communication in contested environments. Coupled with doctrine to incorporate Cyber Survivability Attributes (CSAs) complying with the updated Joint Chiefs of Staff Cyber Survivability Endorsement (CSE) and AES-256 encryption, warfighters can ensure the integrity of their communications is maintained.
Securing communication within C2 systems is paramount, especially given the vulnerabilities exposed in current frameworks. The use of DDS in ROS 2 introduces potential cybersecurity considerations, as it is susceptible to various attacks if not properly secured. However, the DDS protocol’s design for real-time publish-subscribe (RTPS) communication offers opportunities for enhancing security measures, such as encryption and secure discovery mechanisms. By leveraging these capabilities, the proposed C2 system can mitigate risks associated with data interception and unauthorized system access, ensuring robust and resilient communication channels for SOF operations.
Gaps and Solutions
Current systems often struggle with seamless integration across various autonomous platforms, limiting the ability to conduct coordinated operations effectively. Beyond difficult-to-interpret visual scenes, the user interfaces for unmanned vehicle systems often provide only low level data regarding vehicle systems and parameters. The data, however, provided at a low level only, needs to be integrated to support quick operator comprehension of overall vehicle status and functioning. Moreover, the resilience and security of communication channels in the face of sophisticated cyber threats and electronic warfare tactics remain a pressing concern. These technology gaps hinder operational flexibility and the rapid, secure exchange of information crucial for mission success.
Regulatory boundaries present another layer of complexity in the deployment and operation of autonomous systems in military contexts. Spectrum use is tightly regulated, with specific frequencies allocated for military use to avoid interference with civilian communications. The levels of autonomy permitted for operational deployment are also subject to stringent regulations to ensure safety and compliance with international laws, including the laws of armed conflict and norms affecting the deployment of autonomous systems. These regulations necessitate a C2 system design that is not only technologically advanced but also compliant with existing and foreseeable regulatory frameworks.
The integration of ROS 2 with MAVLink presents a promising avenue for achieving a unified command and data exchange protocol among autonomous vehicles. This integration promises to establish a cohesive operational ecosystem where data and commands can be seamlessly exchanged across various platforms, enhancing operational efficiency and flexibility. Additionally, the Persistent MPU5 radio’s capacity to establish a robust mesh network facilitates dynamic, secure communication paths across all deployed assets, ensuring reliable and resilient connectivity even in contested environments. The adaptation of ATAK for use with the Tomahawk Robotics Grip S20 controller is set to revolutionize control schemes within SOCOM’s C2 systems. This combination provides operators with a comprehensive, real-time operational picture and streamlined asset management capabilities.
Benefits, Limitations, and Constraints
The proposed C2 system offers significant advantages, including enhanced situational awareness and decision-making capabilities through integrated real-time data processing and intuitive user interfaces. Secure, scalable communication and interoperability among diverse autonomous assets improve mission effectiveness, while increased operational security and resilience against electronic warfare and cyber threats are achieved through encrypted mesh network communications.
Despite these advantages, the system faces technical limitations related to specific communication spectrums and hardware compatibility issues, potentially impacting system performance or scalability. Moreover, the complexity and novelty of the integrated technologies may necessitate extensive training or adaptation periods for operators.
Strategic Considerations
Balancing system sophistication with usability is crucial to ensure that technological advancements do not overly complicate mission execution or command structures. Future-proofing the system to make it adaptable to new technologies, threats, and operational requirements without necessitating complete redesigns is essential for long-term viability and effectiveness.
Integration Architecture
The integration between ROS 2 and MAVLink into the C2 architecture will increase interoperability across different platforms and manufacturers, leveraging the strengths of both systems. ROS 2 serves as the foundational middleware, offering advanced robotics capabilities, while MAVLink provides a lightweight messaging protocol for drone communication. The combination of these technologies enables efficient, real-time command and data exchange, enhancing the system’s operational flexibility.
Communication Protocol
The MPU5 radio’s mesh network capabilities form the backbone of the system’s communication protocol. This technology supports encrypted data transmission and dynamic re-routing in response to environmental or operational changes, ensuring robust and resilient communication across all deployed assets. Mesh networks offer significant advantages in military applications, including enhanced redundancy, scalability, and resistance to jamming or interference, thereby maintaining secure lines of communication even in contested or degraded environments.
Interface and Control
The adaptation of the ATAK software for use with the Tomahawk Robotics Grip S20 controller revolutionizes the system’s interface and control schemes. This configuration provides operators with an intuitive, real-time interface that significantly enhances situational awareness and facilitates streamlined asset management. The ATAK software’s comprehensive operational picture, combined with the ergonomic and versatile control offered by the Tomahawk Robotics Grip S20, allows for precise command of a mixed fleet of autonomous vehicles, ensuring effective mission execution.
The interface and control can be significantly enhanced by integrating Tomahawk Robotics’ technologies, as demonstrated in the UK MOD Human Machine Teaming Program. The program utilizes Tomahawk Robotics’ Grip S20 controller, KxM edge processor, and MxC-Mini datalinks in conjunction with Kinesis software to unify disparate autonomous systems, facilitating team collaboration and enhancing situational awareness through AI-powered control systems. This integration exemplifies how modern C2 systems can effectively manage and coordinate autonomous assets in complex operational environments.
Research and Development Recommendations
To effectively enhance military C2 systems, it’s essential to focus on integrating emerging technologies, conducting scalability and flexibility studies, performing security and resilience testing, and prioritizing the exploration and integration of advancements in machine learning, and autonomous navigation technologies. These areas hold potential for significant enhancements in system capabilities, enabling more effective decision-making and operational efficiency.
Each recommendation emphasizes the need for a proactive approach to system development, ensuring the C2 system remains at the forefront of technological innovation and operational readiness. Developing AI test beds that mirror C2 tasks and aligning AI systems with C2 processes are critical steps forward. This approach not only advances technological capabilities but also ensures these systems can adapt to varied operational environments and withstand cyber-physical threats, thereby maintaining robustness against electronic warfare and cyber attacks.
Wrapping up
The proposed advanced C2 system represents a significant leap forward in operational command and control capabilities. However, its success hinges on ongoing research, development, and adaptation to emerging threats and technological advancements. The system’s flexible and scalable architecture ensures it can evolve in tandem with future operational requirements, maintaining SOF’s tactical and strategic advantage in global defense scenarios. The development of the SPARTAN system is a first step towards realizing a future where autonomous and uncrewed systems are seamlessly integrated into military operations, enhancing the effectiveness, safety, and strategic capabilities of SOF. By embracing innovation, fostering continuous improvement, and anticipating future challenges, we can continue to remain at the forefront of operational excellence.
For anyone reading this: All comments critical or otherwise are appreciated. What do you think is the future for uncrewed command and control? How can I improve my writing? Do you have similar stories? What can you tell me about my stories?