The Air National Guard frequently conducts operations where communications are unavailable or denied. This can include post-disaster response, counter transnational criminal organization missions in the border environment, or joint operations with partner nations. In these scenarios, there is a need for ultra low cost, size, weight and power mobile ad hoc networks (MANET) to provide redundant and resilient communications to ensure both operators and command elements maintain situational awareness. In this effort, goTenna will leverage innovative R&D to enhance goTennas proven commercial off the shelf (COTS) mesh radio capabilities to enhance support to ANG, driving new capabilities that improve ANG operations: Software improvements that enable superior and secure interoperability with interagency and partner forces. Demonstrate rapid standup of secure MANET networks in post-disaster or pre-operational environments leveraging ad hoc infrastructure (i.e., fixed relays or aerial assets). Increase integration and support for Joint Operations Center (JOC) environments by improving communications to and from the field environment and integrating relevant sensor data. The result will be dramatically improved communications capabilities realized at a fraction of the cost of currently deployed capabilities, providing the ANG with military-grade communications capability at COTS prices - leading to safer ANG operations across the world.
