Future Integrated Architecture (FIA) a proposed space internetworking architecture for future operations

• Main Author: Nelson, Jeffrey M.
• Other Authors: Welch, William J.
• Published: Monterey, California. Naval Postgraduate School 2012
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10945/3963

In order for the U.S. military to adjust to asymmetrical warfare and fight a Global War on Terror, military leaders have had to dramatically increase the quantity and quality of information flowing across the communications networks, which has strained limited network resources. Yet, increased information requirements only begin to describe the current issue. An elusive enemy and multiple theatres of conflict have increased the operational distances between front-line units and command structures, increasing the demand for satellite communications. However, deployed forces currently depend on multiple satellite systems which may not always support interoperability, connectivity, and net-centricity required for enemy engagement. This thesis begins with a discussion of several current efforts attempting to address this issue, as well as several enabling technologies and concepts. Key capabilities extracted from these efforts form the basis for the initial evaluation of the proposed architecture, FIA, supported by the software modeling tool, OPNET. For operational applicability, recent Marine Corps operations, concepts, and lessons learned provide the basis for further evaluation. Findings support internetworking in space capabilities and a recommended modification of current architectural strategies and policies.