Cognitive radio technologies: Envisioning the realization of network-centric warfare

Recent advancements in software defined radio (SDR) technologies have increased the likelihood that most radio infrastructures will transition away from legacy hardware architectures. SDR technologies offer simple flexibility combined with efficiencies in business models, making them the optimum solution for most radio requirements. As SDR proliferates, it is possible to envision cognitive radio technologies emerging from concept to application. Cognitive radio technologies provide an intelligent framework to allow the radio to manage its operational settings. Cognitive radios will be able to sense their environment and decide on the optimum performance parameters for initiation or maintenance of a communications link. Imagine a radio that can autonomously sense neighboring units and establish communications during combat; radios that automatically change frequency bands as necessary to facilitate interoperability; radios that can seamlessly join necessary battlefield networks; radios designed to enable Soldiers to prosecute their influence across any battlespace.