Social Routing in Tactical Edge Networks

Network modernization is one of the Armys top priorities. Tactical edge MANETs possess a set of unique challenges. Social metrics such as centrality and between-ness have proven to be useful in routing decisions in traditional MANETs. However, these routing protocols are based on link state information, which may become stale as the degree of mobility is increased, as in the tactical edge. Tactical edge networks possess some important characteristics that may be beneficial; for example, roles, organizational relationships, and mission plans. This a priori information can be translated into a set of mathematical objects that may be utilized by novel protocols. Such protocols would equip Army networks with heretofore untapped potential, ensuring information superiority for deployed forces. UtopiaCompression (UC) proposes a routing algorithm that exploits a priori mission information and operates independent of link state information. The a priori information is converted into a set of novel social metrics. Reducing the data to social metrics allows the routing problem to be formulated mathematically. UC, will design a hybrid social metric, based roughly on the Social-Tie concept, and associated protocols. The metric leads to a new definition of centrality tailored specifically to the tactical edge MANET.