A novel data compression algorithm will be developed for the Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC) system. Key features of the algorithm include high speed, low cost, and interoperability with encryption. The algorithm will be computationally fast to satisfy CEC's latency requirement. By reducing redundancy in the bit stream, data compression not only will enhance CEC's effective bandwidth but also will enhance security. The compression will be lossless in an information sense. Three classes of data compression methods will be investigated for suitability: entropy-, dictionary-, and prediction-based. Extensive testing and performance evaluation will be performed.
Benefits: Because bandwidth constraints limit the transmission capacity of military and commercial systems, a data compression method that is fast, encryption-capable, low cost, and suitable for use in a distributed system should be of interest to military agencies and commercial entities. Its encryption compatibility should make the algorithm particularly suitable for systems that broadcast proprietary or other sensitive data. The field of wireless communications is exploding and should provide a variety of opportunities for applications in the near future.
Keywords: Lossless data compression, Encryption, Cooperative Engagement Capability, Bandwidth enhancement, Distributed Data System
