Computational challenges of dynamic channel assignment for military MANET

The electromagnetic spectrum available for military use is increasingly crowded and scarce. The military must efficiently allocate spectrum by reusing channels to the maximum extent possible, while also limiting the number of channel changes over time for systems that require manual channel configuration. The classic channel assignment problem is often used to provide exact allocation solutions, but solving this combinatorial optimization problem over multiple time steps while considering cumulative co-channel interference constraints is computationally challenging. Using realistic data sets from large U.S. Marine Corps combat scenarios, we illustrate the importance and difficulties of solving this problem. We examine current solution methods and describe their inadequacies when solving larger problem instances. We also provide a list of ideas for future research on how to address this important and timely challenge.