A framework for net-centric services and usage patterns in military networks

The Network Centric Operations Industry Consortium (NCOIC) provides guidance for network centric operations (NCO) interoperable systems. The NCO interoperability framework (NIF) [1] provides an organizational construct and repository for enabling this guidance. NIF is a framework that assists industry to design interoperable systems. NIF is based upon standards, including patterns, principles, and processes. The net-centric services framework is contained in the NIF overarching framework, consistent with the NIF structure requirements: concepts, principles, patterns and processes. Key net-centric patterns exist in all network designs and implementations. This paper discusses the net centric services framework and describes two important network patterns of particular interest in military networks: DIL (disconnected, intermittent, limited capacity) communications service and isolated network join with synchronization (INJS) service. The DIL communication service pattern describes how a network of connected links with variable link capacity operates to maintain QoS and situational awareness. The pattern describes supporting features required at several protocol layers. The INJS service pattern describes how a set of mobile nodes that have been truncated from the reachback capabilities of the main mesh re-join the main tactical mesh network and synchronize their operations and situational awareness view of the overall tactical network. The abstraction of these patterns using the NIF process provides a standards-based artifact that can be used in both development and procurement of military network capabilities.