A Tactical Bulk Data Distribution Service (TBDDS) For Caching Software Updates Over a Wde Area Network

Navy software applications and systems such as GCCS-M are installed on hundreds of ships, many of which are positioned away from major shore facilities during periods of deployment. There is a need for technology that can provide dependable delivery of software update packages and other large non-time-critical data objects, all while making the most efficient use of constrained resources and capabilities found in tactical networks. Phase I research results will be applied to developing an architectural design for a Tactical Bulk Data Distribution Service (TBDDS) that will ultimately be suitable for use in the dissemination of large packages of bulk non-time-critical data to shipboard systems located anywhere in the world. Phase I research activities will initially focus on three primary areas: (1) technologies for data transport that are resilient to periodic and/or unpredictable interruptions in network functionality, (2) technologies for semi-persistent staging of data at intermediate nodes to optimize efficient use of limited network capabilities, and (3) technologies for resource efficient multi-hop routing of data through sparse-connection tactical networks. A proof-of-concept demonstration of the TBDDS architectural design will be performed through network simulation and analysis efforts at the conclusion of the Phase I effort.