5G networks have introduced innovative concepts such as Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN), Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB), virtual Radio Access Networks (vRAN) and Network Slicing (NS). These concepts make it possible, in unified communication infrastructure, to provide multiple customized networks which can meet specific requirements over terrestrial and aerial domains. It allows mission actors to have full control of the life cycle of networks, including its resources while providing software control of the behavior of its forming networks. It enables execution of high-level multi-mission policies and defining complex tasks to dynamically control networks and their resources to meet on-demand in-theater mission requirements while mitigating vulnerabilities and threats in cyber and Electro Magnetic (EM) domains.
The topic seeks highly motivated research on how 5G and its enabling technologies – virtual Radio Access Networks (vRAN), Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB), Software Defined Networking (SDN), Network Function Virtualization (NFV), cloud infrastructure along with network management and orchestration – can support dynamic, resilient local and global command & control (C2) for joint tactical edge network (JTEN) operations. For example, high level network control makes it possible for operators to specify more complex tasks that involve integrating many disjoint network functions (e.g., security, resource management, and prioritization, etc.) into a single control framework, which enables: (1) mapping mission or application level requirements to a set of tangible network configurations; (2) robust and agile network reconfiguration and recovery; (3) flexible network management and planning; and, in turn, (4) improvements in network efficiency, controllability, and survivability.
5G; Mesh; Virtual Radios; Software Defined Network; Non-terrestrial; Network Slicing; Integrated Access; Network Function Virtualization; Orchestration
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