Characterization of near-ground radiowave propagation profile of the mangrove and rain forest areas of Nigeria

A main challenge of any smart system is the availability of relevant information on the specific operating environment required for the selection/activation of optimal smart system parameters. Most short and medium range military communication/surveillance systems operate on near ground radio channels where radio propagation is highly affected by ecological factors. This paper presents a study of the radio propagation profile within the mangrove and rain forests of Nigeria at military combat net parameters. Theoretical evaluations and analysis of pilot measurements for short/medium range radio propagation show considerable contribution of radio field from possible tree-canopy reflections at lower VHF frequencies for both short and medium ranges in the mangrove and at medium ranges in the rain forest. The study provides an indication to the standard radio propagation prediction models that are most suitable for the mangrove and rain forest areas of Nigeria at the combat net parameters.