Collaborative Open Architecture Technology for Reliable Airborne Networking (COATRAN)

Mayflower proposes a reliable airborne networking technology, the Collaborative Open Architecture Technology for Reliable Airborne Networking (COATRAN), to meet the Air Force objectives, namely, to develop data-link, network, and transport layer protocols, interoperable with standard Internet protocols, which provide reliable performance over intermittent wireless connections of Airborne Networks. The proposed COATRAN system uses an open architecture for interoperability with standard IP protocols and interconnectivity with space and terrestrial networks, and cross-layer and inter-node collaboration to counter deleterious effects of high-speed mobility, platform dynamics, link heterogeneity and variability. The COATRAN system will increase reliability of communication and networking under adverse conditions by utilizing innovative protocols that foster cross-layer and cross-network collaboration between nodes to form a smart network with smart nodes. The proposed COATRAN system leverages Mayflower’s expertise in airborne networking, and builds on technology developed under three Phase II SBIR programs and Internal R&D. The COATRAN system, when proven feasible in the Phase I study for the Air Force application, has enormous potential for military and commercial applications. Mayflower will develop a cost effective COATRAN prototype system in Phase I and II, and ensure its commercialization in Phase III and beyond.