High-fidelity modeling and scalable simulation for tactical network design

Tactical networks such as MANETs are designed for rugged battlefield environments, which pose unique challenges to their reliability and performance. To plan for these challenges defense agencies need to realistically model and simulate network deployments. The accuracy of the network model impacts the success of the underlying mission. OPNET^reg solutions couple high-fidelity protocol, technology, and equipment models with a scalable environment capable of simulating wired or wireless military networks of realistic scale. Joint Communication Simulation System (JCSS; formerly NETWARS) is a software solution based on the OPNET simulation environment. It is the Joint Chiefs of Staff standard for modeling and simulation of military communication systems. The JCSS solution is widely used by defense agencies to test the performance of military tactical edge networks with various backbone technologies and other initiatives. This paper outlines the key use cases of the JCSS solution and underscores the importance of high-fidelity network modeling and simulation in the tactical network arena.