Field test results and use scenarios for a WiMAX based Finnish broadband tactical backbone network

This paper describes the initial field test results of applying the WiMAX (IEEE 802.16e) technology for wireless tactical backbone networks within the Finnish Defence Forces (FDF). According to the FDF wireless reference architecture, new cost-effective technical solutions are needed especially for wireless tactical backbone networks. The commercial WiMAX technology, slightly modified for military purposes, seems to be a suitable technology for this purpose. The FDF has procured a set of software defined radio (SDR) based prototype systems for testing purposes. These prototype systems are based on commercial WiMAX technology, but adapted to operate over the NATO UHF band of 225 - 400 MHz. The main contribution of this paper is to describe results of the initial field tests and to analyze the suitability of the prototype systems for the specific needs of the FDF. These needs are described in the form of three use scenarios that are seen to one of the most important ones within the FDF for wireless tactical backbone networks. The field test configuration resembled real-life tactical conditions: antenna height was only 2.5 meters, ordinary omni-directional antennas were used, and moving nodes were used in the tests. The results of the initial field tests were promising, as the requirements of the major use scenarios could be fulfilled. For example, the range under near line-of-sight conditions was at least 19 km. However, more tests are needed to validate the suitability of the WiMAX technology in more detail.