Adaptive Cyber-secure Cross-layer Communications-Classification System (AC4S): Dynamic Cross-layer Routing Using Cognitive Spectrum Allocation (AXL-RO

ABSTRACT: In this effort selected SBIR technologies will be matured and merged to establish the Adaptive Cyber-secure Cross-layer Communications-Classification System (AC4S) for enhancing the throughput, spectral efficiency, speed, reliability and security performance of software defined radio (SDR) communication networks. One of the core technologies that forms the basis of AC4S is the AXL-ROSA system, which consists of two state-of-the-art software communication technologies that address the problem of dynamic spectrum access and constrained data traffic in ad hoc cognitive radio networks. The AXL (Adaptive Cross-layer) component is a software implemented network stack that supports cross-layer routing protocols. ROSA (Joint Routing and Dynamic Spectrum Allocation) is a cross-layer routing protocol that fits within the AXL framework. AXL-ROSA combine to create a next-generation ad hoc cross-layer networking protocol that utilizes optimized joint cognitive routing and spread spectrum channelization that demonstrates =10X performance improvement over traditional networking regimes. Optimal traffic throughput is provided in a distributed, congested, and contested spectral environment for military SDR networks. AXL-ROSA is the fundamental building block for the AC4S development that will also incorporate automatic modulation classification (AMC) and cyber-domain spectrum exploitation (CyberSE) technologies developed under the SBIR program. This effort will allow the Air Force to further its technology base, by focusing on meeting 6.3 objectives for Air Force acquisitions and programs of record in concert with achieving resilient C2 in an anti-access/area-denial (A2/AD) environment requiring centralized command, distributed control and decentralized execution.; BENEFIT: The product of this SBIR project will help the Air Force and the DoD usher in the next-generation of cognitive cross-layer networking and routing protocols that will improve state-of-the-art performance under extreme conditions by a ten-fold factor or more. Adaptive Cyber-secure Cross-layer Communications-Classification System (AC4S) technologies based on the AXL-ROSA environment will benefit the following: (i) Multi-domain Adaptable Processing (MAP) System; (ii) Link-16 Modernization; (iii) Fourth-to-Fifth-Generation Fighter/Bomber; (iv) Joint Aerial Layer Networks (JALN); (v) Aerial Layer Networks (ALNet); and (vi) Gateway modernization acquisitions. The overall benefits will include signal discrimination, advanced spectrum sensing, cyber-protected communication, and interference/congestion avoidance, all assembled as an integrated package that operates on an embedded cross-layer framework designed for military radio platforms. Its utility can be extended for commercial applications that run the gamut from autonomous vehicles to the Internet of Things (IOT).