The DirecNet Network Management Architecture

In order to address the challenges of a highly-integrated, high-bandwidth backbone for future tactical edge networks, the DirecNet Task Force has developed [1, 2] a robust high-capacity, directional mesh-networking waveform. In the past year, the DirecNet Task Force has established a Network Management Working Group (NMWG), comprised of representatives from the US Department of Defense (DoD) military services and industry. This working group has been chartered to develop a distributed policy-driven network management standard that can be used in association with the current DirecNet Interoperable Waveform Standard as well as other tactical radio/network systems. This paper identifies capabilities required of the network management system imposed by the special needs of a heterogeneous, wireless tactical network. We describe an architecture for these management capabilities using DoDAF 2.0 [3], that provides policy-driven, autonomous management of networked radios for the optimal success of the networked mission. Finally, we detail the planned completion of this industry-neutral architecture that will facilitate the management of networks of heterogeneous, ad hoc wireless links used in tactical communications environments.